Meet Ariel Elich | Photographer

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

Hi Ariel, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
For the majority of my life, I’ve been self-employed. At the age of 22, my sister and I ventured into joint ownership, purchasing a sailboat to launch a charter business in the Caribbean. Upon my return to the United States, the idea of working for someone else had lost its appeal entirely. The prospect of starting my own business was and some days still is daunting. I am often plagued with fear and doubt, but it’s this very fear and uncertainty that propels me forward. I’ve grown accustomed to setbacks, viewing them as opportunities to learn and try again. Failure can be your best teacher.

The benefits of being my own boss outweigh the fear and risk, fueling my determination. I love the autonomy over my schedule and the sense of accomplishment when I do succeed, knowing it was all for me. The struggle of being an entrepreneur isn’t for the faint of heart. It has been a huge learning experience, a massive challenge but oh so sweet when the small wins happen. The empowerment and sense of accomplishment is something I don’t think I could ever have if I was working for someone.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My love of photography began at a very early age. From the beginning I loved photographing people and that love still holds today. I love people watching, I love finding that unique thing about a person that makes them spectacular, a little mole on their cheek, a funny crinkle in their nose when they smile. The way they become shy in front of the camera and then after making them laugh, seeing their face light up and watching them forget about their shyness.

Art and creativity has lived in me my entire life and i love the idea that with a camera i am literally painting with light. I love that I get to freeze time and memories. It is such a gift to capture the love of others and then give that image of their love back to them.

I am a confidant photographer and my greatest strength is in giving people direction for what to do in front of the camera, orchestrating a series of events to get them to relax and feel comfortable so they forget whats happening and i can capture their authentic selves. I excel at giving people the confidence and specific direction to not feel awkward, something that so many of us struggle with, my self included when at photoshoots. The average person is not a model, isn’t trained for it and usually has no clue what to do. Thats where i come in. Photography should be a fun filled experience full of deep belly laughs and too many smiles.

In my Photography business i strive to make the whole process painless and seamless, from booking with me to ordering prints i help my clients through the whole process and make it as easy as possible. I love to collaborate with my clients to make their visions come to life and if they don’t have a vision i’m known to toss around a good idea or two.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Mother Charlotte, who has been self-employed for almost 50 years. She not only taught me but showed me that it is possible and wonderful. Without her love and support none of this would have been possible. She is inspiring.

Website: arielelichphoto.com

Instagram: @ariel_elich_photography

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ariel-elich-photography-denver?uid=0aUgl6Rigmx8eGxqeHOHMA&utm_source=ishare

Image Credits
all images by Ariel Elich Photography Head shot of Ariel Elich by Justine McKinzie Photography