Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddie Van Wagenen.
Maddie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started photography in 9th grade in my journalism and yearbook class! I was really bad at it, hahaha. But when I stated 10th grade, I made some friends who loved to go take pictures. I quickly discovered that I preferred to be behind the camera rather in front of it. A couple of years later, I was the senior class historian and taking pictures as often as I could. Eventually, people started paying me. I was shocked and encouraged by their support! This helped me keep going, even when I got busy with college and other jobs. Now, people will hire me for wedding, engagement, and portrait shoots and I love every minute of it!
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?
Absolutely not! I face lots of imposter syndrome. There are so many wonderful photographers in the SLC area. And, since editing is an art, I’ve struggled to find my own sense of style and personality in shooting and editing. Not going to lie, I’m still working on that!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a photographer in the SLC area, though I also do lots of work in Utah County. I love taking pictures of people! Anything from wedding days to engagement photos to portraits, I love it! Currently, I have lots of friends and acquaintances in the getting-married stages of life. So I’m currently taking lots of couple’s pictures!
I think the thing that sets me apart the most from other photographers is the diversity of experiences. Other than taking portraits of people, I also currently work as a photographer and a photo director for my campus newspaper. As a result, I have a large variety of shoots I’ve done. From protests to campus events to concerts, I have done a LOT of different shoots. One of the shoots I am most proud of is the Bleachers concert I’ve shot!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
My favorite thing about Salt Lake City is the diverse experiences you can seek out. I love the food scene and the activities.
My least favorite thing about Salt Lake City is the air quality. One, it makes my lungs sad. And two, it makes some types of photos–like views of the valley–harder to get.
Pricing:
- 1 hr portraits/couple/small family (4 people): $250 (1 location)
- 1 hr medium family (5-9): $400
- 1 hr+ large family (10+): inquire with me for details
- Wedding coverage: $250/hour (including travel)
- Pricing includes all of the post-shoot editing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maddievanphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maddievanphotography/
