Meet Abigail Collins | Photographer and Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Abigail Collins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Abigail, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I had my first child at 35 and my second at 39. Like most parents, those early years came with a significant adjustment for all of us. But it wasn’t until I turned 40 that I started to feel like my true self. I began to let my self confidence shine through, to own my truth, and to pursue the things that genuinely bring me joy.

Those shifts have been the most impactful for my children – not because I taught them explicitly, but because I lived them. What I want most for my kids is what I found later in life: confidence in who they are, the courage to be authentic, and the freedom to let that shine. Self-knowledge creates room for growth, allows you to live intentionally, and builds healthier relationships. I want them to learn that earlier than I did.

Over the past year, I’ve intentionally done things that make me uncomfortable, knowing that discomfort is often the path to growth—as an artist, a human, and a parent. Networking and public speaking have never come naturally to me, but practicing both opened doors I never expected. At a Women of the Workforce event in Castle Rock, I met the President of the Tri Arts Project. That connection led to joining the Board and, eventually, the honor of becoming Gallery Director at the Cantril School.

I’ve been a wedding and family photographer for eleven years, but bringing studio art into our lives has made everything feel more complete. I’ve started creating work purely for myself—work that’s been shown in local art exhibitions and is currently on display at Engel & Völkers on Wilcox Street.

As a parent, what you do often matters more than what you say. My kids attended my first public speaking event in January, where sixty people filled the gallery. I told them I was nervous—and that I was going to do it anyway. Showing them that you can face fear, make mistakes, grow, and pursue what brings you joy is part of helping them become who they’re meant to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I began my career as a wedding and family photographer in Los Angeles, a market saturated with incredibly talented photographers. Standing out there forces you to learn an important lesson early: comparison is useless, because there is only one you. The more of yourself you bring into your work—what you’re drawn to photograph, how you edit, how you show up for the people in front of your camera—the more clearly your voice emerges. And when that happens, you don’t have to chase clients; the right ones begin to find you.

I’ve been able to work with incredible people over the past eleven years, and I’m continually surprised by where this career has taken me—and by the relationships it’s made possible. It’s something I don’t take for granted.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Brinkerhoff in Castle Rock is a must! I’ve been there for both lunch and dinner and the food and drinks are outstanding. You have to eat their sushi, specifically the Hummingbird roll. You just do.

If you want to stop for coffee go to Crowfoot Cafe. The vibe there is relaxed and there’s cool art on the walls and you can even order beer! Also, the Mayor works there so it’s a bonus you can meet him. You won’t even know it’s him, he’s that chill.

Speaking of beer, check out Breckenridge Brewery. They have indoor and outdoor seating (you can bring your kids) and live bands.

The Emporium is my favorite place to shop, they have such a variety of beautiful things!

Top Golf, Ninja Intensity and The Mac are fun places to bring kids. I’m a big outdoor fan so I also recommend visiting Garden of the Gods, Roxborough State Park or the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, a huge thank you to all the Tri Arts Project Board members! They have helped re-ignite my passion for the arts. I absolutely love being a part of their organization. I also want to thank the Castle Rock Artist Alliance who have helped cultivate my work being shown at art exhibitions around town. Lastly, the biggest thank you to my husband who always encourages me to let my true self shine.

Website: https://www.abigailrcollins.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigailrcollins/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-r-collins-69166011/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbigailRCollinsPhotography

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/abigail-r-collins-photography-castle-rock-2

Image Credits
Abigail R Collins Photography