Meet Trailblazer Erin Winter Raymond

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Winter Raymond.

Erin, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve considered myself a photographer, but have only recently found the guts to turn my passion into a career! Erin Winter Photography started out as a unique niche photography business, as I primarily captured photos of horses, pets, and their owners. Over time, my sessions and clientele evolved, and pretty soon I found myself rebranding as a portrait and wedding photographer!

I still photograph horses from time to time, but have found my joy in documenting the unique personalities and stories that each individual, couple, or family brings to a session.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My business journey hasn’t been a smooth road, but I’m fortunate that it hasn’t been filled with too many potholes either! I’m not going to lie, when I started this business I naively imagined pulling a healthy salary fairly quickly. I imagined inquiry after inquiry pouring into my email account, and having to turn down sessions due to time constraints. Let’s just say… that wasn’t quite the case. The main struggle for me revolved around keeping my expectations in check while remaining confident and focused on myself and my clients. It was easy to compare my business against others, and put myself down for not being as profitable or as “popular.” Additionally, in a world where anyone with an iPhone or a DSLR can take a decent picture, being a photographer has become a popular career choice. Therefore, it was difficult to get my name out there! I fought to set my skill, my experience, and my style apart from others.

So what made me stick with it? What advice do I have to offer?

First, find yourself a support system! This is invaluable. My husband (Sean) and my family have been my greatest supporters. Without them, I’m not sure I would have endured the struggles. They not only provide me with sound advice, they also shout my worth… most often to the person who needs to hear it the most. Myself!

Second, Third, and Fourth, remember the following things: stay in your lane, be bold, and “Rome wasn’t built in a day!”
Don’t compare yourself to others. Your “lane” is your own and there is no need to compare. Yes, find inspiration and other business professionals to admire, but focus on yourself and you’ll find so much more joy in your journey! Be bold. Go after opportunities, chase what you want. The worst thing that can happen is someone will say “no.” The best thing that will happen? A new opportunity awaits! Be patient. It takes time, hard work, skill, and even more time to build something beautiful!

Fifth and finally, LOVE what you do!

We’d love to hear more about Erin Winter Photography.
Erin Winter Photography specializes in couples’ portraits and weddings, as I love taking pictures of people in love! While I’m known for having vivid, yet true-to-life color in my photographs, I’m probably best known for, and most proud of, the provided experience. I want all of my clients to feel comfortable in front of the camera. I’m a firm believer that YOU. ARE. WORTHY. of being photographed in a beautiful, fun, and authentic way! My photoshoots are an empowering experience, allowing the best version of yourself to shine. In addition, when you have a positive photography experience, you’re more likely to look back on your photos and remember the event, the moments, etc. in the best light. I have a running tally, for after every couples’ session at least one of the participants (usually the less excited individual) says to me, “wow! That wasn’t too bad… in fact, that was actually kind of fun.” Score!

While my style and provided experience already sets me apart from others, I’m also considered a “hybrid” photographer. This means that I shoot both digital and film images. While film is starting to make a slow comeback, there still aren’t that many film photographers in Colorado. I absolutely adore working with film, the process, the colors, the detail, etc.! It produces a timeless, fine-art style, and no matter what trends come in and out of popularity, film will always be relevant.

Erin Winter Photography is also available for other services such as: editorial, family, maternity, lifestyle newborn, headshot, senior, and branding photo sessions!

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
Coffee… does this count? I keep a lot of things organized within my brain, and coffee keeps me fueled and awake! Okay, in all reality though, the other things that keep my business running are: Lightroom/Photoshop, Quickbooks, DocuSign, PASS Galleries, and my Apple products. My computer and iPhone “talk” to each other, which means my schedule is always up-to-date and accessible!

As for books, I’m an avid reader, and I love anything with a compelling storyline and detailed imagery. Over the time-span of a year, I’ll probably read close to 50 books. They not only provide a mental break from life, but they also help to stretch my creativity and expand my imagination. One of my favorites to date is “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens.

Pricing:

• Portrait Sessions: Starting at $250 – Digitals Included
• Weddings: Starting at $1500 – Digitals Included

Contact Info:

• Website: www.erinwinterphoto.com
• Email: erinwinterphoto@gmail.com
• Instagram: @ErinWinter_Photo
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/erinwinterphoto

Image Credit:
Headshot photo credit: Blissmore Photography; All other images photo credit: Erin Winter Photography

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