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Daily Inspiration: Meet Stacey Thompson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacey Thompson.

Hi Stacey, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I began dabbling in photography when I began college, but, although I took a couple of photography classes, I learned more from YouTube and hands-on experience.

I was drawn to fashion photography early on as a way to express myself artistically; I never had the patience for drawing or painting, but in photos, there is instant gratification. After practicing for years with friends and aspiring models, I began working with modeling agencies through pure luck.

A friend of mine was a design student at Lindenwood, and she asked a couple of the girls who modeled her clothes in the Lindenwood fashion show to work with us to shoot her senior project. One of them was with West Models and asked me to reach out to her agent about shooting for her portfolio.

My work was soooo bad back then, and not what agencies are looking for at all. Still, they gave me a chance, followed by many more chances. Today, I work with models both in the St. Louis area and in the larger midwest market as a whole, to build their portfolios. I also shoot for local boutiques and brands, both for e-commerce and advertisements.

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?
My journey has been very slow. The fashion industry in our area is limited and oversaturated with photographers. For several years I did wedding photography until I finally started to take off in fashion.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think the main thing that sets me apart is minimalism. I love minimalist art, so it only makes sense that it would be expressed in my photography. My work is known for being clean and simple, but I can still make a statement, whether through the clothing, the model’s pose, the lighting- I will find a way to make a simple image dynamic.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I’ve learned not to undervalue my work. For years, I did too much for too little. I’ve learned that my time and effort are important and that I shouldn’t sacrifice that unless a project is worthwhile.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Tayan Stansfield, Cat Blassie, Samantha Wehking, Vincent Sung, Anna Vollett, Jordan McDaniel, Erin Schmidt, and Giovanna Reyes

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