Welcome to the Photographer Supply Co. Photographer Spotlight! Each week we will feature one of our uber talented customers and their work, asking a few questions, poking around a bit on what makes them tick and most importantly: showing off some of their gorgeous work!
Our next spotlight features Tori Sullivan, photographer with Tori Leigh Photo & Video.
What is your studio’s name? Tori Leigh Photo & Video
Where is your studio based? Dallas, TX
Studio Website? http://torileigh.net
Are you currently a part-time or full-time photographer? Full-Time
What is your predominant photographic specialization? Lifestyle and Wedding
What camera(s) do you currently shoot with? Canon 5D Mark III
How would you define your style?
Free. I love for my clients to dance around, laugh, let their hair blow in the wind… I want to capture their truest form. I’m not about posing them and making them look perfect. The beauty is in the imperfections.
What motivated you to become a photographer?
I’ve literally had a camera in my hand since the age of 6. It started with a Polaroid and disposable cameras, until my mom bought me my first film camera at age 15. I would take pictures of everything! Looking back, I can’t even imagine how much she spent on film. Although, I never realized I could/should make a career out of it until I met my husband. He pushed me to see what I didn’t, and he continues to support me as my second shooter (or reflector holder haha) on every single shoot I do!
What is it that you try to convey with your work?
Realness. I aim to capture moments that make you feel something or take you somewhere else for a moment. If I can move you in some way… make you cry, laugh, or feel inspired… that’s what it’s all about!
How do you accomplish that?
This kind of goes back to what I mentioned above when I defined my style. I try to avoid giving too much direction and I tell my clients to keep it moving. Even if it’s the slightest head movements, it really helps to bring out the real them!
Have you had a photographer inspire your work, and if so, who and why?
There are so many amazing photographers!! I often don’t even really know who I’m being inspired by. I’m super inspired by Free People shoots, but I usually don’t know who was behind them. Something about bringing beautiful clothes together with amazing nature… I can’t get enough of it!!
What is your most memorable accomplishment so far in your photography career?
I had the opportunity to live in England and travel with a band on tour throughout the EU for 2 years. Experiencing 19 countries is definitely not something that everyone gets to do and I’m so thankful for everything I learned during my time there!
What is one thing you have learned during your career?
Someone once told me, “There is never going to be a better lens than your God given one… your eye.” It seriously changed the way I shoot!
Which Photographer Supply Co. products do you currently use?
All my photos are delivered on the engraved wooden USB’s!
How have Photographer Supply Company products helped your business?
I have never delivered a session without getting a comment on how cute the USB is! Clients love them! It’s the perfect extra touch!
Thank you so much for your time, Tori!