Meet Erik Cooper | Fashion/Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Erik, why did you pursue a creative career?
Life called me to do something different once I had grown. The truth is that professional expression is such a far cry from the daily grind and punching a clock. I spent 28 years doing the dutiful jobs others wanted me to accomplish. It was always in the back of my head, that still small voice, that I was called to do more. It all came to an epiphanic moment the first time I saw one of my images looking back at me. The draw was inevitable as every shutter snap developed a missing passion in my life. A few years passed and the “career” action was in place.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m a huge believer in having the right people installed for the jobs or processes you need to accomplish. Up to this time it’s been working with other creatives in networking on our similar objectives and learning from those cooperations. I am finally at a stage where I’m able to hire individuals to help reach the goals. I’m a photographer that shoots several platforms, but by specializing in fashion and portrait work, I’m finding my studio turning the direction I’m looking for. I’ve spent several years learning the necessary angles with similar aspects of photography through, nature, architecture, product and portrait work. With photography, most artists go through stages in order to find their true calling. I’ve always loved fashion and it’s wonderful to find a clear way into the industry. I’m seeing clients asking for bids on their projects based on my current and previous work. The music of business is sounding louder every day.

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.
I’m an outdoorsman in that I love the trails and mountains of Colorado. All of my time away is spent near Gunnison, Aspen and the summits. Friends visiting are sure to get views and a good workout. We live in the best location for endless activities and enjoyment. Mom used to say it best, “We live where others travel to from around the world.” Love this place, this Colorado!

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?
There are many I’d give a “Thank you” to in this direction. Mentors have always been welcomed and often reached out to. The idea was installed early in life to own my own business and to have my schedule in hand by those I’d seen as successful. That dream wasn’t truly realized before many years had gone by. However, I was still listening to those that talked of the freedom waiting. Local business men and women would fit on this list, but one of my boldest mentors was Rush Limbaugh. Yes, I was an eager listener of the radio legend. His life vision was one of doing what is a passion in your life and realizing that it’s not “work” when you truly love it. This teaching has helped in current times when the world has felt lopsided and impersonal. As to support, I have so many that have helped and carried me through the challenges. You realize you’re blessed when you arrive, at least to the stage I’ve been permitted. I’ll be thanking many for years to come.

Website: erikcooperphotography.com

Instagram: @erikcooperphotography

Image Credits
1. Jennifer (Client work), 2. Nevaeh and Gabrielle, 3. Christine, 4. Christiana, 5. Emrie, 6. Dylan, 7. Jason, 8. Cassidy