Meet Trailblazer Elise Taylor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Taylor.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been the one taking family photos. Back when we had FILM cameras! I was always asking for a new camera for a birthday or Christmas present. Remember when Kodak came out with the automatic rolling film camera? No need to worry about accidentally exposing an entire roll when you opened the back of the camera. That was one of those gifts. I took darkroom in high school and learned how to develop my own film. Then, I went off to college in Missouri where I played varsity women’s soccer and met my future husband. We actually have the same degree! Photography was not on my radar at this time.

I came back to Colorado – because Colorado is not only where my family is but let’s be honest, it’s a pretty awesome place to live. I started working a corporate job and climbing the ladder there. I truly enjoyed my work and the culture there. And then, in 2013, we got married! It was then that the lightbulb clicked, and all my passions came flooding back after my experience with our wedding photographer. I almost immediately started photographing again.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a rough road, but it’s definitely been a trip. Being the owner of a single person company can be isolating. Find people who maybe are in the same industry, or are also business owners but maybe in a different field. Share with each other, learn from each other. And just find a community so that you don’t burn out.

Please tell us about Elise Taylor Photography – what should we know?
I love photography in its entirety, so if I had to I could be happy photographing anything. Though I am deeply passionate about pet photography. Particularly what I call my Rainbow Bridge sessions. Something else about me – I always thought I would grow up to be a veterinarian. Though that didn’t materialize, I still have a love for animals.

Rainbow Bridge sessions are photo sessions to capture images with a pet that may no longer be around soon. Either they are ill or just had a great life but it is coming to an end. I know that this can often creep up or happen seemingly overnight, but never think it’s too late! I got a call to do a session one evening and I met the owners the next afternoon to make their session happen.

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
I have been a competitive athlete most of my life, and continue to play soccer in an adult league, though we are a tad slower now, and can have a few beers after the game. So, one of the most memorable books I read was in my adolescence. It is a book by Mia Hamm, one of the most notable women’s soccer figures.

There is a quote by her collegiate soccer coach from her book, Go for the Goal. He gave her a note after watching her train that read:

The vision of a champion is bent over, drenched in sweat, at the point of exhaustion when nobody else is looking.
-Anson Dorrance

I think this can apply to most ventures in life. There are many other quotes and sources of inspiration in her book that don’t strictly apply to sports. I read this book probably 20 years ago. I still have it and although I haven’t read it recently I still reflect on the message.

Pricing:

• Portrait/Pet sessions start at $600

Contact Info:

• Website: www.elisetaylorphotography.com/pets
• Email: elise@elisetaylorphotography.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/elisetaylorphotography
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/elisetaylorphotography

Image Credit:
(ME!) Elise Taylor Photography

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