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

Hi Crystal, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated with photography; the dark room, the lighting, the posing, how a camera works, etc. I love how each person sees things differently. I chose to pursue photography because I wanted to be a part of the art world. I have always had a passion for all types of art and how it can make a person feel. I wanted to be able to evoke those emotions in other people.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been blessed to be able to photograph so many different things and people. My passion lies in showing the world who someone is or the unique places in my hometown of Pueblo. When I am working with my clients (mostly weddings and engagements) I always tell them to just be themselves. I’m not into posing people too much because I want their photos to be a reflection of who they are. I want them to be authentic. I think that is one thing that makes me stand out. I have watched other photographers work and a lot of times they get set in their own way (same location, same poses, different client) and that just doesn’t appeal to me. I currently am working on a series of photos entitled “The Sights and People of Pueblo.” Unfortunately Pueblo gets a bad rep because everyone hears the bad things, but we have so much beauty and so much to offer. We have a rich history that I want to showcase.
Of course it hasn’t been easy getting to where I am today. It is still hard. But the one thing I have learned is that persistence, hard work, and a lot of self promotion will get you where you want to be.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh gosh, there is so much. The Grind Haus on
Union would definitely be a must.
They have amazing food- lots of vegan and healthy options as well as many tasty drinks. They have their wall of teas that has any kind of tea you could imagine. They also have wonderful staff. This is the place where a lot of artists hang out so you would get great stories as well.

A walk down Union avenue showcases many art galleries (John Deaux, Turf Exchange, and Steel City Artworks, just to mention a few) as well as The 10 Spot where everything costs $10 or less. There are also a few antique shops. You definitely have to stop for a burger and shoestring fries at The Gold Dust.

On the weekend The Shamrock has an amazing brunch. They have the most delicious biscuits and gravy and they have a great selection of house made ales. A must see is Rosemount Museum, which is the Crown Jewel of Colorado. Lake Pueblo is the place to go if you are into boating and fishing. We are just an hours drive away from Colorado Springs, which has a lot of great museums and shopping as well. San Isabel is a short drive away. I would pack a picnic and head to Bishop’s Castle.

In August we have  the Colorado State Fair going on (tons of stuff to see and do) and in September we have our Chilies and Frijoles Festival down on Union. During the summer we have many farms that offer fresh fruits and vegetables. Mussos is my favorite. Mauros has really delicious  homemade goodies. Their ladyfinger cookies are the best.

There are so many other places, but that would take up a book.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Rosemount Museum plays a huge role in my success. I have been a volunteer tour guide at Rosemount for almost 20 years. Through volunteering I have met so many different people from all walks of life. I have made a lot of really wonderful connections. The staff and volunteers of Rosemount have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. When I started my photography business they were the first to hire me for a project. Photographing Rosemount was an amazing start to my career. I also could not have done any of this without my husband, Tom, who is wonderfully supportive of me. Radeaux and the John Deaux Art Gallery where I met many artists and was inspired everyday. Dave Edwards who showed me how unique photography could be and last, but not least, Monat. I became a market partner with Monat in order to be able to pursue my dreams. I definitely could not have done this without having a source of income coming from somewhere else.

Instagram: @chrysalisphotographycolorado

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysalisphotographycolorado

Other: bio.site/CrystalBrown

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.