Published Photographer of 7+ yrs Teaches Introduction to Photography! Lessons Personalized for Each Student!

Learn more about Ella

• 1) When did you start practicing? How did this passion find you?

  I received my first camera, a little pink point-and-shoot, from my grandpa when I was 8 years old, just before heading off to sleepaway camp. That camera sparked a curiosity that turned into a passion as I grew. I spent middle school and high school teaching myself the basics, watching countless YouTube videos, reading photography books, and experimenting with my dad's old DSLR Nikon camera. My formal training came in college, where I studied Studio Art with a focus on portraiture and fine art photography. I've been shooting professionally since 2015 and have only continued to grow in my craft.

• 2) Which artists or works affect you the most?

  I'm influenced by many artists, but photographers like Sally Mann and Vivian Maier have had a profound impact on me. Their ability to capture raw emotion and beauty in everyday moments is something I strive for in my own work.

• 3) What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this area?

  Success in photography requires both technical skill and emotional insight. You need to understand the technicality of your camera, the interplay of light and shadow, and the importance of composition. But just as crucial is your ability to see beyond the surface-capturing emotion, telling a story, and conveying mood. Patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment are key to unlocking your potential in photography.

• 4) What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Creativity requires both discipline and grace. Setting small, achievable goals, and staying consistent is key to making progress over time. However, it's equally important to recognize when to step away, take a break, and return with fresh energy-sometimes a glass of water and a stretch is all you need to refocus. While progress is incremental, when inspiration strikes don't let it slip away! For me, this means writing notes, creating mood boards, and sketching out ideas for future photoshoots as soon as an idea comes to mind. The key is to balance structured work with time for rest and spontaneity.

• 5) How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  Photography is both an outlet and a reflection of how I see the world. It's a way for me to connect deeply with a moment, to pause time, and to find beauty in the ordinary. I feel energized, fulfilled, and grounded when I'm behind the camera or editing photos. There's a certain joy in creating something meaningful and beautiful from a fleeting second, and that passion drives me to keep exploring and learning.

• 6) What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  Two of my proudest creative achievements include exhibiting a collection of my work at The Gund and receiving the Kenyon College Studio Art Merit Scholarship. The Gund exhibition marked a significant moment in showcasing my artistic vision, while the merit scholarship-one of only three awarded annually based on an art portfolio-was a powerful affirmation of my dedication and creativity. Another milestone was when I started teaching photography-it's incredibly fulfilling to help others develop their own creative voice and see them succeed. Additionally, starting to teach photography has been incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to help others develop their own creative voices and witness their growth and success.

• 7) Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  Absolutely! I had a student who, despite starting with minimal experience, advanced rapidly and produced stunning work within just a few sessions. Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn led to impressive results, and it was exciting to see their skills develop so quickly.

• 8) Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  My "secret" as a Superprof is to meet students where they are and personalize my lessons for each student. I believe in a balance of structure and freedom, giving students the tools they need while encouraging them to explore their own vision.