Meet Emily Gruenthal | Photographer & Marketing Specialists

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

Hi Emily, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business, kind of came out of nowhere. I was a lost college student, trying to figure out which path to take. I ended up taking a couple art courses my junior year. I took an entry-level photography class not thinking anything of it. Next thing you know I’m graduating college with a bachelors in art and design with an emphasis in photography. When I first started, I looked at it as a side hustle, or a hobby. It wasn’t until someone actually offered to pay me for my first shoot is when I realized I might be able to do this full-time. I have been a photographer for eight years now and I honestly honestly can’t imagine my life any other way. I haven’t only done photography but I have incorporated other side gigs like social media management, marketing, and graphic design. I am very blessed that I get to use my creative outlet as a full-time career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would describe my photography as vintage and authentic. I primarily focus on capturing the western lifestyle and fashion that comes with it. I love to be able to tell the stories of those who ranch and farm all across the western Plains. I love to be able to capture the ruggedness as well as the beauty. The authentic people, families, and dedication to the west. I got to where I am now because I’m passionate about my subject matter. It stays close to my heart being raised in this lifestyle. I think it fell easy to me to capture these stories because I grew up around them constantly. I felt like it was stories that were overlooked and deserve to be seen. It wasn’t easy to start my own business though….that’s a different story. I feel like any artist who finally takes the leap has that internal battle of am I going to succeed. I have learned that I am my biggest supporter and my biggest cheerleader. It’s hard to not fall into comparison of others but you have to stick with what you know. Stay authentically you, and people will continue to support and hire you. There are gonna be years that you struggle and they’re gonna be years that you thrive. You just can’t let those bad times stop you from pursuing your passion. There has been numerous times throughout my life and career that I had to do whatever it takes to float by. There were times I wanted to quit in times I wanted to change what I was doing with my life. My clients and the photographs that I’m able to capture what keeping going. I love being a struggling artist and I don’t regret it! My goal with my photography is to make my clients feel their absolute best. Well also telling their stories and sharing their memories. Capturing these once in a lifetime moments that we hold deer to our hearts. My brand thrives on telling your stories.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend coming to Colorado, I would tell them they have to visit the mountains. They have to go see Breckenridge or even Vail. Bounce around to all the amazing breweries. Don’t forget to stop in to some of the best restaurants. Order yourself, an amazing appetizer, and a round of cocktails. During the day hit up all the local shops. I’m a sucker for a good antique store. Colorado has so much to offer and I would tell them to book a photo shoot. Capture your family vacation or romantic getaway. The Rocky Mountains offer some of the best backdrops. People travel from all over just to take photos here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to shout out my friends and my family who are number one supporters of my career. If it wasn’t for them, I’d be working at 9 to 5 desk job or even pursuing my teaching career. They saw my talent and pushed me to branch out and try something out of my comfort zone. They are the reason I am here and doing what I love.

Website: Emilynicolephotographyco.com

Instagram: @emily.nicole.photo.co

Image Credits
Emily Nicole Photography