Meet Luke George | College Student & Freelance Photographer

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

Hi Luke, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I’ve come to a lot of points in my life where I’ve debated giving up and calling things quits. I’ve given into that sometimes, but I strive not to. It’s okay to stop what you’re doing to evaluate everything, and come back stronger with an even better mindset. That’s the “good way” of giving up; realizing that changes must be made in order to see success. The problematic, and more common, way of giving up comes when we reach the end of our comfort zone. Quitting because you are moving into unfamiliar territory is not a good thing. Being at the end of your comfort zone is often the silver lining in your journey. When you have a goal to achieve, you ultimately want to see change. This change is never easy, but stepping out of your comfort zone and taking a leap of faith is one of the best things that you can do for yourself. In terms of my photography journey, this has been a reoccurring theme. Do I keep it a hobby? Am I good enough to keep up with everyone? Should I bet on myself or give up? Questions like this come at a time when I am moving out of my comfort zone, trying to push towards a new goal. When I feel like I want to quit, I remember that growth is a marathon. I am far from the person and photographer that I was one year ago, and I hope to be different one year from now as well. So if you want to change or see something happen. bet on yourself. Make small changes, and you never know what can happen. I picked up photography just as a hobby, with no intention of making a huge operation out of it. I am thankful that I’m not there yet, because I am enjoying the slow journey. So when you come to an intimidating or uncomfortable change, take it slow and enjoy the process. Not everything has to happen at once and that’s okay. Photography is an art that I’ve fallen in love with, and that’s how I measure my success. I’m not giving up on the art, and encourage the same for anyone else. It’s a tough industry to move up in, but it’s not tough to be obsessed with. If you truly love working with photography, don’t let your comfort zone get in the way. Make small changes, restart if you absolutely need to, and fall in love with your craft.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Photography is an art that I genuinely have connected with and hope to never let it go. I have only had a camera for a little over a year, but lack of equipment has never stopped me. I was always taking photos on my phone; obsessing with finding the perfect shot and angle. I’m just fascinated by the world around me, and like capturing those small things that I enjoy. When I was gifted my first digital camera, I was clueless. It was the trusty Canon Rebel t7. which is as entry level as you can get. To some peoples’ surprise, I still use that same one. I like the idea of working with what you have, and making the most out of it. Since then, I’ve taken pictures of pretty much anything. I enjoy landscape and natural photography the most; it serves as my therapy. I have also taken pictures at sporting events, and have even done a few senior picture sessions. My experience has been all over the place, and I’m still trying to find my niche. A lesson that has come to me in this process is the importance of expanding boundaries. I have tried so many new types of photography, and learned many things about the different disciplines. I’m not set in stone on one yet; I’m seeing what works for me. If I had focused on just one type, I would not have half of the experience that I have now. As I continue to brand myself, I am working towards finding a photography niche that I enjoy and can be successful in. The good thing about being a so called “freelancer” is that I am not super established as a business. I just like taking pictures, and if business comes, so be it. I embrace every opportunity that comes my way. So today, am I a professional? In a word, no. I am niche-less and don’t have a steady stream of business. I am in college and am not studying photography either. This is my passion that I have on the side, that I am constantly trying to work towards. I’m in no hurry though, because I don’t want to miss any growth opportunities. That being said, I’m hustling towards branding myself as a photographer. I offer prints, and am open to any type of photography someone may need, I’m learning my craft, and enjoy including others in the process. If I can make someone happy with photos or prints, then I’m already winning. That’s my number one priority, which I believe sets me apart. I enjoy photography more than almost anything, and am obsessed with sharing that enjoyment with others.

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?
To be completely transparent, I am from Buffalo. I recently took a trip to Denver to visit family, and I took pictures while out there. Those very pictures inspired this article, which goes to show that you never know what may lie ahead. My week consisted of visiting National Parks, shopping, and eating at some amazing restaurants. My favorite part of the experience was Rocky Mountain National Park. I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. It is one of the most beautiful places that I have had the pleasure of visiting, no matter what time of year. There are roads upon roads of mountain views that are indescribable. I was able to get many photos and some of my best work. Another sight that I was able to see was the Red Rocks Amphitheater. I had always seen pictures and videos of concerts here, so it was surreal to finally be immersed in it. Sadly, there was no concert going on, but I was still able to take in the experience. The city of Boulder really stuck with me, and was where we ate most of the time. The college town is aesthetically pleasing to me, and I enjoyed walking around. There are many places to eat, with my favorite being the Buff Restaurant. The entire atmosphere of this city was great, as was the entirety of Colorado. Sadly, I did have to make my way back to snowy Western New York. Buffalo is a great city as well, and I’ll take a minute to shout it out. The people are amazing; as we’re known as the city of good neighbors. No matter what you find yourself in Buffalo for, you’ll be surrounded by amazing people. Some of my favorite things to do include eating the famous pizza and wings, going to the botanical gardens, and watching Bills games. If you’re not from the Buffalo area, you can’t quite experience Bills Mafia unless you are up here. The entire city comes together to support the Bills, and it’s amazing to see. The winters can be rough, but I think it’s worth it. It’s a great place to be with something for everyone.

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 am still very young in my journey with photography, but have had endless support from many people. Support doesn’t always go noticed by the one giving it, but it is definitely noticed by me. Those who are close to me know that I take pictures, but would not think that I have huge aspirations or goals with it. But to the group of people who do believe in me; thank you. The people who message me complimenting my work, the people who ask for prints, the people who use my photos on social media, and anyone who has been alongside me for this journey. I would consider myself a hobbyist, and not taken seriously by some people around me. But there is a circle of people who genuinely believe in me and want to see me succeed. Those are the people I want to be with, and am grateful for their presence.

Website: coming soon

Instagram: www.instagram.com/shotbylukeg

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-george-951788257

Other: email: lgeorgephotos@gmail.com A website with my portfolio and prints is in the works- stay tuned

Image Credits
Luke George