Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Powers.
Hi Emma, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been taking photographs for as long as I can remember. My mom has remarked countless times how grateful she is that I grew up in the digital age because she and my dad would have gone broke trying to keep me in the film! Animals have always intrigued me, so I have tried documenting their lives. Sometimes I only witness a small fraction of an animal’s life. Still, my favorite opportunities to photograph are with animals that I consider my friends—animals that live in places I visit frequently. My photograph of the badger is a prime example; his name is Fred (Mertz), and he adores digging tunnels, of course, and sleeping upside down with all four paws in the air. Powerful Photography began in the summer of 2018—soon after I finished my junior year. That year was tough, and I want to reconnect with nature and immerse myself in the world of photography and wildlife.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
On the one hand, I have an innate love of photography and a supportive family who loves road trips (and indulges my requests for wildlife parks and zoos). On the other hand, business and self-promotion are not my strong suits by any stretch of the imagination.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I photograph nature, landscapes, wildlife, and zoo animals. The challenge with wildlife photography is that animals are unpredictable to some extent. Still, I can witness and capture interesting moments because I have an endless capacity for watching animals. Most of my photographs are taken with a digital camera, but some are taken with my iPhone if I’m caught unprepared.
I’m a huge proponent of the underdog, so I tend to be drawn toward “weirder” animals. (My favorite animal has always been the spotted hyena because they’re matriarchal.) I usually caption my photos on Instagram with lesser-known facts about the animals because they’re fascinating creatures.
I’ve also started trying my hand at other kinds of art. When the pandemic hit, my mom taught me to cross-stitch, and I researched watercolor and colored pencils. Cross-stitch is the most calming; it’s very meditative, and I don’t feel hindered by my ADHD or anxiety. But watercolor and colored pencils have been interesting to explore. By printing my photos (on normal printer paper) and tracing them into my sketchbook, I can circumvent the frustration I feel when I draw and can focus on my art’s colorful side.
What characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to if you had to?
My family and friends’ support has been crucial; I wouldn’t be anything without them. They inspire me daily with empathy, love, and care for other people and animals. I hope their love and support are evident in my photographs and artwork.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerfulphotographybyemma/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Powerful-Photography-272909026817839
Image Credits
Emma Powers
