Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Wayne.
Hi Shelly, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I always made time to photograph family outings, travels, etc. usually with a small point-and-shoot camera. In 2013, when we moved from southern Montana to Page. AZ I relied heavily on my cellphone to take photos. Hiking in the desert with kids meant less camera gear; I carried more water and snacks: so shot with a cell phone.
Until 2014 when a local, professional photographer and college instructor: Frank Talbot, saw my snapshots of the Grand Canyon on my phone. He shook his head when I told him that was how I shot them. Frank told me my talent was being wasted if I didn’t take photos with a real camera. He told me which camera bundle to buy at Costco and to read the manual. I told Frank I would sign up for his college course: but he told me no. “There is nothing I can teach you. Photography is 90% composition. You already know the Rule of Thirds. You do it naturally. Without even thinking about it.”
I had no clue what he meant by: Rule of Thirds. As you probably have gathered: I am a self-taught photographer. I never took classes and never got to hear Frank teach. But I did read the camera manual when it came: the rest is history.
I ordered and sold my first prints soon after. By 2015, I was selling prints regularly: enough to upgrade my camera gear and pay for gas to travel, hike and shoot. I honestly never thought I would be teaching others: but here I am today: a full-time backcountry guide and photography workshop instructor in southern Utah.
If you had asked me 5 years ago where I wanted to see myself: I am here. Spending my days in the desert is my happy place. Helping others learn new techniques and angles is the icing on the cake.
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?
Oh wow. Well, there are a lot of challenges and struggles along the way when you follow your dreams. Reaching for stars is tough work. I think the biggest obstacle is myself. I am my harshest critic. But, that’s where my husband comes in! He is my biggest cheerleader: he sees potential where I see flaws.
Another challenge is Social media. I am horrible at keeping a constant social media presence. But it is a necessary evil in today’s world. And there are people out there who don’t have anything nice to say. Once in a while, I wonder if putting myself out there is worth the time and effort.
Even as an adult negative comments can start to sting. Once in a while, I start to question my path. But then I remember: I am bringing beauty into the world. That is my path. Light and love. Makes sense since I am endlessly chasing light.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a full-time Guide and photographer in southern Utah. My photography business, Amazed Photography by Shelly Wayne, was established in 2015.
I guide for a family-run business: Kanab Tour Company.
I started guiding part-time 3 years ago while working at the local elementary school. Although I loved working with kiddos: an office setting wasn’t where I was supposed to be. After 9 years working inside full-time didn’t make for a happy vibe. So, with my family’s support, I left the school to guide full time. Best decision ever!
Kanab Tour Company supports my photography by selling my work and allowing me to guide photography sessions. This fall I will be collaborating on a desert-scape workshop. Super excited about that!
I think I’m set apart from other photographers in that I rarely use Photoshop. I do have 2-night images that are stacked with 2 images. Not using Photoshop is pretty rare right now. To be honest, I just don’t have the time to learn or use the program.
I’m a 40-something wife and mom that took a chance: changed career paths mid-life and spends most of her time in the desert wilderness, guiding. Not many moms don’t have cellphone service 90% of the day. Does that make me a bad mom? Maybe. But I’m a better mom today than when I was working a normal job. I’m happier, calmer, and more grounded. I am very proud of who I am and what I do.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Great question. I have so many things that make me happy. My family. My friends.
My photography. Helping people master new photography skills. Guiding to remote areas and watching pure happiness and awe on people’s faces. I am incredibly blessed.
My girls have always been outdoor adventurers and having raised them that way has created an incredible bond. It has always been important to me and my husband that we raised our daughters to be strong and independent. And I think Mother Nature is the best teacher for that. What better way to teach self-love and resiliency and build strong relationships than to wander and explore Nature together!!
Pricing:
- Metal Prints: from $125
- Portrait Sessions: from $350
- Guided Photography Trip: from $300 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.amazed.photography
- Instagram: @Amazedphotography_shellywayne
- Facebook: Amazed Photography by Shelly Wayne
