Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Huntley.
Hi Samantha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I had a love for photography since I can remember. My parents had a love for photography so I think that is what started my love for this art. My mom had a nice film camera with some Sigma lenses when I was a baby. It is so nostalgic to hold pictures from 40 years ago.
In high school I was dating my now husband Jeremy, and he took my senior pictures with that same film camera. I still have that camera, lenses and flash. When we started having kids my dad bought me my first Canon Rebel xsi camera back in 2006. I bought an 85 mm lens and that is when I started to get into photography even more. Everything was digital and that was amazing.
Then in 2018 I purchased a new Canon Rebel t7i and over the years invested in more lenses. I really got into macro photography. I loved doing flowers and bugs. Even though I had been self taught for a long time I felt stuck. Ridgewater College in Willmar MN had photography classes and I always wanted to get a degree in photography. I just didnt want to drive back and forth everyday. Especially in the winter months.
Summer of 2021 I was looking at their website and I seen that all of their classes where now online. Since Covid, most colleges went to online. I thought, I can do this! I was so excited I cried!
Spring of 2023 I graduated with my degree in Professional Photography. I started Novel Images Professional Photography in 2022 which is located in Montevideo, MN. I specialize in weddings, families and seniors.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are good times and bad times. Struggles are burnout and unrealistic clients. To keep me from burnout, I like to keep things new and interesting and like to try new things. I have to keep growing and learning. For the unrealistic clients and, we all know we can get those. I just do my best with them and good communication with people is key!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer that specializes in weddings, families and seniors. I have done commercial work, video, websites, graphic design and marketing but my love is photography. I think I am known for how I make my images stand out more than other photographers in my area.
I love to use Off Camera Flash ( OCF) when I do portrait sessions. I can over power the sun with my flashes and I can really shape light. I also enjoy dramatic portrait photography with multiple flashes, color gels and atmosphere spray. Dramatic sports photography is really fun too. I also like doing headshots for business.
I am most proud of my 16+ years of being self taught, obtaining my photography degree and , the knowledge of OCF. Lots of photographers in this area are natural light only. I am proud that with my education I can provide more of a unique experience.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
That most people dont know about Novel Images Professional Photography LLC. I am your local photographer! I do travel and would love to work with you. I also do pet photography. I am a big dog and cat lover. A lot of people dont know that I do in-home sessions too. I bring the studio to you!
Pricing:
- Families – Start at $375.00
- Seniors – Start at $400.00
- Weddings- Start at $2000.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.novelimagesphoto.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novel.images.photography_llc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/novel.images4u
