Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Evans.
Hi Michelle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
Hi, I’m Michelle. I’m a wedding and portrait photographer based here in Memphis, TN. Although I’m originally from Central Arkansas, I moved to Memphis 10 years ago to get my Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Photography and quickly found myself falling in love with the city.
If there’s one thing you should know about the Photography Fine Art world, it’s that they think Wedding Photography is kitchy. So, when I started assisting at weddings in college, I was surprised that I found myself actually enjoying that type of work. I was completely drawn in by the amount of love, care, and raw emotion that happens during a full wedding day.
I get to see so many parts of the human condition during a wedding day, and capturing that is truly one of the greatest gifts I’ve received. So… here I am nearly 10 years later with my own wedding photography business. And I’ve loved every blood, sweat, and tear that has gone into it.
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?
Is the road ever smooth? Of course, there were bumps here and there – not being able to afford gear, the hours and hours of self-education on running a business, working multiple part-time jobs, family getting sick, and struggling to find my voice as a creative.
Something I love about Memphis is its ability to MAKE you grind. A couple of life circumstances made my start in Memphis pretty complicated. So, it took several years but this city made me learn so much about work ethic and to truthfully depend on the community. Small businesses thrive through community and finding a community that supports not only your personal journey, but your business growth is vital. I’m so thankful that Memphis has become that for me.
So no, the road hasn’t necessarily been smooth, but who really needs a smooth road anyway? Bumps make the ride more interesting!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a wedding and portrait photographer, I specialize in helping people remember their important moments in a way that’s artful and unique to them. My work has been featured in Style Blueprint, Southern Bride Magazine, The Knot, Zola, and Wedding Rule.
If I had to choose one thing that sets me apart from other photographers, I would say it’s my ability to create a seamless, fun, and genuine experience that is reflective of the couple. I call myself a “coulda-been-a-bridesmaid” photographer because of the intentional assistance and authentic connection I build with my clients from the very start and all through their wedding experience.
I’m pretty proud of some of the creative works I’ve been making lately. But, honestly, I feel the proudest when I show a client the back of my camera to see a photo of themselves, and they say “Damn, I DO look good.”
Most often, clients hire me because my work is vibrant, timeless, and filled with genuine joy. But it’s the “people actually look truthfully happy in your images” that gets me. It’s not just about pretty photos, it’s about genuine, authentic human connection in front of and behind the camera.
How do you think about happiness?
I love my city, I love to travel, I love the arts, I love my job, and especially my friends. The list goes on and on. However, one thing that really, truly brings me joy is getting to witness real, authentic, i-give-a-huge-shit-about-you love on a regular basis with my camera. I believe that there’s something sweet and unique in the ways we show our love for others.
That’s why I’m a wedding photographer. Seeing how communities support each other in their life’s journeys to make a kinda crazy commitment to another human being… well it’s a pretty rad thing to see throughout the year.
I sincerely believe that the most important thing in this life is human connection. And being able to document that has been my favorite way to contribute to this beautiful life.
Pricing:
- Wedding packages begin at $2,000; however, I am also happy to work with clients to come up with a package that is optimized for their needs.
- Portraits packages begin at $275
- Boudoir Portraits $300
Contact Info:
- Email: michelleevansart@gmail.com
- Website: www.michelleevansart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/michelleevansart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/michelleevansart
Image Credits
Jackie McGinnis and Michelle Evans Art
