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

Hi Maddie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
When I first became a photographer, I knew I wanted to get people out of their comfort zone with my vision. To me, success is keeping in mind the niche I want to create & implementing that in each of my shoots. Getting up close & personal with my models, both personally & creatively, adds to that vision each time I’m behind that lens. It allows me to grow as a photographer, but more than that, it allows my subjects to open up, be comfortable, & add to the successful process of getting intimate with the camera.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m most excited to grow in my career & work on building a new niche in photography that allows my subjects to be 100% comfortable, vulnerable, & empowered. It’s a lot easier said than done, but when models aren’t open to those ideas, I step in front of the camera myself & start a new self-portrait series. I want to show women & men they are all beautiful & are allowed to express themselves freely & openly. I’ve learned that its okay to have off-days, but to continue pushing yourself & that’s where the creative process can take flight. My niche’s motto is “empowered people empower people,” & I want to continue showing the world how to do that in front of my lens.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well I’m from Southern California, so I’ll give my local recommendations! Firstly, I would take them to the beach, definitely in San Clemente. My favorite hole-in-the-wall is this cute poke & sushi spot on the main street called 808 Poke & Roll. Afterwards, get drinks at the infamous triangle of bars & some late-night nachos at Sancho’s Tacos. I would definitely want to take my friends into the mountains, too. Going down Ortega Highway to the lookout off of South Main Divide Road or even up to Big Bear to escape the city noise!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success in my career wouldn’t be possible without the support, advice, & modeling abilities of my loved ones. My best friend, Jasmin Tafreshi is also an incredible photographer & has helped to educate & support me throughout this whole process. My good friend, Ella is always open to modeling for me & is always pushing me to do more. My dad and his girlfriend, Josie, support me more than anything & always want to see the work I’m doing. My boyfriend, Christopher, has always waned great success for me & encourages me to grow & try new things. I wouldn’t be where I am today without each & every one of these individuals.

Website: Instagram.com/shutesforthepeople

Instagram: @shutesforthepeople

Other: My email is maddieshutesphotography@gmail.com for any booking inquiries!

Image Credits
Models: Ella Neal Jasmin Tafreshi Amin Tafreshi Myself

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