Today we’d like to introduce you to Oaklee Barney.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I first got interested in photography when I was about 11 years old, and I got my first little point and shoot camera for Christmas. From there, I took my first photography class my sophomore year of high school. Midway through the semester, my photography teacher passed away, temporarily pausing my photo journey as I was reluctant to take the more advanced class the next year with a new teacher. I didn’t think anyone could measure up to him. Luckily I had issues arise with my schedule and I ended up needing to take photography the next year as nothing else would fit with my schedule, and I fell back in love with the art! I have both my teachers: Jenn Walters and the late Larry Prescott to thank for my passion and understanding of what I do. I officially started my business in 2016, taking senior photos and other individual portraits, as well as even shooting an engagement session and wedding reception! I struggled a lot with imposter syndrome (still do!) and was super hesitant to reach out to people or to actually do many sessions because I was so scared, saying “what if I’m lying to them and I’m actually a horrible photographer? They’ll get terrible photos back and tell everyone I’m a fraud!” But I’ve been working through that recently and revamping my business to be exactly how I want it to be! I’m so grateful that I’m able to do what I love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not even close. The biggest struggle has been imposter syndrome and feeling like I’m not good enough to be putting my work out into the world.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a portrait photographer, I specialize in couples photography, so that’s proposals, engagements, bridals, and anything in between! I also have a love for landscape photography, so my favorite thing is to combine the two, telling people’s love stories amongst the mountains or otherwise in nature. I am also queer-friendly (also being queer myself) which I’ve realized is unfortunately difficult to find in Utah.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’m a hard-of-hearing individual, and I use hearing aids and lots of lip reading to communicate! The deaf community is something I’m proud to be a part of, and I’m working on learning ASL, although I’m far from fluent. Don’t worry if you don’t sign though, as long as you speak clearly I’ll be able to understand you and communicate well.
Pricing:
- Individuals: starting at $150
- Couples/engagements: starting at $200
- Families: starting at $300
- Prints: starting at $75
Contact Info:
- Website: oakleemckallphotos.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/oakleemckallphotos
Image Credits
Oaklee Barney
