Meet Heidi Elzas | Automotive Photographer

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

Hi Heidi, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Before diving into the automotive industry I had a preconceived idea of what it was like. Now that I have been baptized by fire in this place of hot rods and racing, I couldn’t have been more wrong. There is a shared passion that brings unity. Each has their own preferences and set of ambitions, whether it is to be faster, louder or prettier than the next. The talents are abundant and the friendships run deep. Through my photography and social perspective I have an opportunity to bring the camaraderie into light. Unlimited stories to be told through imagery. Showcasing the positivity in a world that tends to embrace negativity and division.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Originally I started into the world of photography because I loved how the technical and creative intertwined harmoniously. A true representation of my personality. Years I practiced and worked through the genres of photography. All requiring different skills that were challenging and enjoyable, but nothing stuck out as an absolute favorite. That’s when I merged two of my passions into one; photography and cars. It hit this on button in my soul.  Automotive photography has this uniqueness to it. Each vehicle holds a different story and heart value. It is through my passion and talents I have this ability to document these moments in a way that gives the car and the owner a tangible form of their relationship with each other. At times the process can be emotional because of the stories attached to each car. Other times it is reliving a faction of a moment that has taken months or years of preparation to reach this point. I love being able to retell those stories through artistic imagery. When I nail the shot that holds meaning my pride hits an all time high.  Getting to this point in my career has taken years. The preparation has been building my entire life. From always demanding respect to pushing to achieve greatness. It has always been a matter of perseverance and adapting in the face of adversity and using that as strength for the next time. While facing these challenges I actively grew a friendship with my camera and developed my editing style.  I have learned that risk should not be associated with fear. Instead it should be viewed as an opportunity for growth. I have such a love hate relationship with this. I love the growth it has given me in terms of friendships and opportunities in the automotive industry, but I hate that first step of taking that risk. Stepping out onto the uncomfortable has proven time and time again to be worth it.  America’s Meanest Cars is about showing the beauty in all avenues of the automotive industry. In all aspects of our business the foundation will always be based on integrity, passion and family; being an example of the expectation we have for those around us.

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?
Colorado has some of the most beautifully scenic drives with quaint eateries along the way. At every chance possible avoid the larger interstates and take the backroads, going through the small towns that make Colorado perfect. A staple that every visitor needs to do is take a drive up to the summit of Pikes Peak. The full comprehension of purple mountain majesty is felt seeing the view from the summit. Truly an iconic monument for the racing community worldwide, as has hosted the Pikes Peak Hill Climb since 1916. Growing up in Cripple Creek, one of my most nostalgic and favorite drives is from Divide to Victor along Highway 67 to County Road 1. Windy roads, view of mountains in the distance and occasionally the odds are in your favor and the big horned sheep are perched on the rocks by the pavement. Once you are in the small town of Victor there are hidden gems throughout. After the long drive, stretching your legs at the Stratton’s Independence Mine and Mill is not only a stunning hike but it is filled with rich historic information on the area. Stopping at the Gold Camp Bakery for a quick bite as you take in the views from the hilltop. Museums that have beautiful tractors and working equipment that is loud and delightful; bringing to life the sights and sounds of the past as you gaze in awe of the ingenuity. As you look around you can just imagine the city thriving in the Victorian era.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It has been a combination of people and moments that have gotten me to this stage. Without my husband’s push for greatness and support I would still be stuck in a life of missed opportunities and unhappiness. The faith he has in my abilities has opened my eyes to see what is deep inside of me. Taking that fire within to push to that next level. He raises me up with his actions of encouragement. Filling my soul with laughter and love on the daily. I would be lost without him by my side. I have countless friends and family that continue to stand by me and my brand, shoving any of the naysayers and negativity out of hearing distance. There have been so many incredible people willing to take risks on me. It has given me opportunities to create connections providing genuine growth. For them I am eternally grateful. It is all the little things working together to build something worthy enough to be labeled success.

Website: www.americasmeanestcars.com

Instagram: @americasmeanestcars

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-elzas

Twitter: @AmericasMeanest

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE79FxTycv8ppc0TaxG_Fig

Image Credits
America’s Meanest Cars