Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Radspinner.
Hi Elise, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I was always surrounded by art and immersed in it around, especially around my family and friends. My first introduction to art as a kid was in performing arts. From a young age, I started dancing, playing the violin, and doing musical theater really loved all kinds of performing but I became most passionate about dance as I got older. I think my experiences through performing shaped me a lot as an artist now. When I was younger, I felt very intimidated by visual arts. I always admired it, but I don’t think it was until discovering photography that I felt very comfortable with trying it myself. I was always fascinated by pictures of dance and how they were put together. I loved the idea of dressing up and posing to take photos. I often convinced my friends to take pictures of myself dancing and posing. I loved being in front of the camera for a long time and I think it helped me come out of my shell again. I have been lucky to work with a lot of great photographers who taught me the importance of collaboration between a model and a photographer. I started to be more curious about the process of taking pictures myself. I started shooting with a film camera my friend gave me and I fell in love. I loved the way every shot was a little different cause you never really know what to expect. It forced me to be very intentional with each picture I took. I really fell in love with taking portraits of people, I think it’s such a special way to connect with someone. Portraits can show so much about a person. Photography has helped me connect with so many great artists and people. I’m forever grateful for that.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think at this point in my life I can appreciate my weaknesses as much as my strengths but it hasn’t always been easy. For most of my life, I have dealt with depression, anxiety & PTSD. Art has been an important outlet for me when I’m struggling with mental health. Being able to take pictures of people and hear their stories has helped me get out of those dark places. The more I have shared myself or my talents with other people the more happy I have become.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a freelance artist/photographer. I specialize in film photography, portraiture and creative direction. I think most people know me for my creative portraits taken on 35mm film. I love working with people to create a concept through imagery and directing a photoshoot from that. I love being able to evoke a feeling through my photos. I also love using different techniques like collaging, painting and scanning to manipulate my images. I always knew I wanted to do something creative with my life but out of all the experiences I had, photography really drew me in. I hope what sets me apart is how I make people feel after taking their pictures. I think the experience of a portrait session with someone is such an intimate, unique experience. It’s always important to me that the process feels fun but still safe and comfortable. I think there is so much to learn about a person when taking their pictures. I’m most proud of the work I have been able to do with my friends. Any time I can collaborate with my peers is so special to me. I’m really lucky to be surrounded by friends with artistic talents and a great community of artists where I live. I’m not sure where I’d be without the influence of my friends and their constant support in my art.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important thing I have learned is to let myself feel and share that with others. Putting passion into your work does not go unnoticed. Never dim yourself for the sake of others’ comfort. I think my most powerful and fulfilling work has come from the times I really let go of expectations and worked with others. Life is too short to not share yourself with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: eliserad.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radsizzle/
Image Credits
Paty (Personal photo)
