Rising Stars: Meet Erica Chitra of Westminster

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Chitra

Hi Erica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have loved photography since I got my first DSLR camera – about 20 years ago. But it was during the pandemic when I decided to really dive into photography. I learned as much as I could about light and how it impacts a photo. I put tons of energy into understanding the mechanics of my camera so I could take artistic control over my photos. I studied composition to understand how to draw in my viewer. In short, I became obsessed with photography. It was an artistic outlet I didn’t even know I needed during a trying time. I started this journey with the intention of authentically capturing my three young kids in a beautiful way. I wanted these beautiful memories to be proudly displayed in my home. And my love for photography kept growing, spilling into other genres. Some of my favorites being macro photography, landscape photography, portraiture, and wildlife photography. Today, I offer portrait sessions to high school seniors, families (including maternity and newborn), and head shots. I also sell fine art prints of my landscape and macro work at art shows all over the state.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I am a stay-at-home mother of three littles. That is my number one priority. Owning my own small business has afforded me flexibility, so I am able take as many or as few jobs as I need to accommodate my busy life. And I get to do what I love! Still, finding the balance can be a struggle, and making time for business logistics – something I just find very hard to concentrate on – is a challenge.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a photographer who specializes in portraiture. I offer portrait sessions to families (including maternity and newborn), high school seniors, and head shots. My style is timeless and I pride myself on the attention to detail that I give from beginning to end. Starting with getting to know what my clients are looking for during their session and providing a fun and comfortable atmosphere during the session. I guide my clients through posing while considering the best composition to achieve the look we’re going for. I am skilled in editing and retouching, and am meticulous about the finishing touches I put on each clients photos. It is my goal to give my client a finished product that they will be proud to artfully display in their home. When I’m not working directly with clients, I am passionate about macro, landscape, and wildlife photography, and I sell fine art prints of my work at art shows across the state.

Pricing:

• Portrait sessions range from $400-$850
• Fine art prints range from $35-$400

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericachitraphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricaChitraPhotography

Image Credits
Sabrina Harrison Photography – took the portrait of myself holding a camera to my face
Erica Chitra Photography – all the other photos