Photographer: Kathleen Clemons
Kathleen Clemons is a New England based professional photographer, living on the beautiful coast of Maine. She is known for her creative use of natural light and unique, stunning compositions. She has a passion for making photographs, and loves to teach others how to improve their photography skills. Her work is represented worldwide by Corbis and Getty Images.
When did you know the photography/video industry was for you?
I have always been artistic, I can draw and paint, and I had experimented with many different art forms but never really felt like I had found my niche. When I started getting serious about photography, it just felt like the right fit for me, and the perfect way to show the world the way I see it. Photography helped me to find my voice.
How did you get your current position?
Lots of hard work! I currently teach online at gatheracademy.org and I teach on location workshops as well.
| How did your training or schooling prepare you for your job? My degree is in education, and my training helps me understand different learning styles and how best to reach my students. Being able to combine my love of teaching with my passion for photography gives me the best of both worlds. |
What was the greatest obstacle you had to overcome in pursuing your career?
The greatest obstacle was a lack of self confidence, as many artists experience.
Who would you name as the most influential person in shaping your career?Why?
There have been several people who have helped to shape my career. There were of course instructors who taught me the technical side of photography, but the most influential person was Photographer Sue Bryce, who believed in me before I believed in myself. She is the one who recommended me as an instructor to Creative Live where I have filmed two classes which greatly changed my career. Over 101,000 people have viewed my classes from all over the world. The other person is Craig Strong, creator of Lensbaby lenses. Using Lensbaby lenses has allowed me to show the world the way I experience it, and the support from Craig and his company has been one of the best parts of my career and life.
If you could be compensated for your work with something other than money, what would it be?
I am compensated every time I look through my camera and see the beauty in the world, and each time one of my students has a breakthrough and creates work that allows them to share their unique view and sing their own song.
To view more of Kathleen’s work, visit: http://kathleenclemonsphotography.com/
