Meet Tawny Elise of Clayton

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

Hi Tawny, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi everyone! Growing up, I was heavily involved in music, art, and other creative expressions. My parents are musicians, now running a full-time interior design business. So being around several different avenues in the arts helped immensely with exploring what truly fit with me! I picked up my first camera in 2011 as a graduation gift (thanks mom and dad!) and ever since then, I have been GLUED to it. I’ve never had ” proper” training, my determination to get to know my camera through and through got a hold of me. I was obsessed with trying to nail the concept of shooting ” Manuel ” from the start. I really think having people willing to be a test subject was the best thing to figure out my style! Editorial and Lifestyle is what I’ve really loved to convey, especially in editing. Currently what I’m loving is lots of color and contrast. But who knows? That may change, and that’s why I love photography. It’s ever-changing and there is no wrong or right answer! As of August 2021, I became full-time with my photography business! Lots of growing and learning, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The transition hasn’t been easy, I think the leap of the unknown is what makes many people not attempt it. The first thing I mainly heard when I went full-time was ” That’s so admirable of you, it’s rare to see people do what they love and make it a career. ” My personal struggle is learning all of the business logistics. To create a business full-time takes a lot more than just going out, meeting a client, and taking a couple photos. You’re the only thing that keeps you busy, keeps your clients happy, and maintains steady income. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I ” Specialize ” in Lifestyle/ Editorial images. My motto is ” I want my pictures to convey a story. ” Whether the viewer is left feeling uncertain of how it makes them feel. At least they are trying to figure out what they feel when they see it. My style is always changing. My biggest inspirations when it comes to style is Pastels, all day. Which is ironic because my work is heavy on contrast and making colors pop in the image. I’m most proud of my portrait work! 

What sets me apart from other photographers? That’s a tough question because there are so many amazing, unique artists out there. I think more so, the ability to make someone feel COMFORTABLE in an unfamiliar space is what truly can set someone apart. It’s one thing to have talent, but another to create a relationship and instantly click with that person/people. 

At the end of the day, you are being hired for a job and providing your services. They need to feel like they can trust you. 

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
So, 90% of my clientele comes from Instagram believe it or not. I’ve been heavily active on that platform since 2010 and it’s crazy to think of how much it has changed since then. I also showcase my rates, work, and my story on my website!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.tawnyelisephoto.com
• Instagram: @tawnyelisephoto
• Twitter: tawnyelisephoto

Image Credits:
Elle Dev
Tawny Elise