We had the good fortune of connecting with Rebecca Sherrow and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Rebecca, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I came from a unique family in that a majority of my close relatives worked in artistic careers. My father is an author, my grandfather was a custom jeweler, one uncle makes custom hats for Hollywood and two others design and build custom houses, so for me, pursuing a non-traditional career was not something out of the ordinary. When my work as a photographer began to be noticed and brands started reaching out to me with proposals, there really wasn’t any question in my mind as to whether this was the right path to pursue. I had excellent role models who were successfully self-employed as artistic entrepreneurs to look to for encouragement.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a food photographer and writer, I partner with brands to bring their products to life, particularly through social media campaigns. The world of food photography has become very competitive recently, with social media as a major marketing tool. The trick is to create a campaign that is relevant and will stand out on over-saturated platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, while preserving some artistic individuality. When someone sees one of my photos or videos, I want them to know immediately that it’s mine. I continually study trends and fads, and try to judiciously incorporate them into my signature style. For example, short format video marketing is a trend that continues to grow and outpace still photography.
As an artist, you must realize that not everyone will like your work – the saying, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” holds very true for artistic professions. In my case rejection comes frequently, simply because a brand is looking for a certain aesthetic. I’ve had to learn to not take it personally. My photography style is very dramatic, with high contrast, bold colors and large areas of shadow to balance the light. The look is not for everyone and that’s okay. I focus on remaining true to my style while creating images that are highly marketable.
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.
Colorado Springs and the surrounding area is so full of life and vitality, how could we fit it all into one week?
I would have to start with a day trip to the Garden of the Gods – a photographer’s dream, especially in the morning when the sun is just rising! After getting cleaned up, we would get reservations at Four by Brother Luck (321 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs) for dinner. The menu changes seasonally, but if the bone marrow crostini with Cabernet vinaigrette is on the menu, I recommend that.
The next day we’d visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey (3011 East Highway 50 Cañon City, CO) – a beautiful Benedictine Monastery turned winery surrounded by lush vineyards and mountain views. The tasting room is open daily. Upon returning home, I’d reserve a table at The Famous – an elegant steakhouse and piano bar that serves the best American Wagyu Steaks.
If we wanted to really “get away,” I would pack a picnic and make the one hour drive into San Isabel National Forest to the shores of Lake Isabel. It’s a peaceful, alpine lake, fed by an idyllic mountain stream and surrounded by towering pines and aspen groves. It’s my little slice of heaven and the best place for a day-long picnic. (While you’re there, make a quick trip up the road to Bishop Castle, 12705 CO-165, Rye, CO. If you’re a fan of the bizarre and unusual, you will not be disappointed!)
And speaking of bizarre, I would be remiss if I didn’t take my friend on a trip down the Rabbit Hole! I’m talking about The Rabbit Hole restaurant (101 North Tejon Street, Colorado Springs). Entering through a subway entrance, you descend below the city into a cavernous wonderland of eclectic cocktails and upscale American cuisine. Champagne is served in goblets as large as your head!
For classic and craft cocktails, I would take my friend to The Wobbly Olive (3317 Cinema Point, Colorado Springs). Try the Honey Badger Don’t Care (honey whiskey, elderberry, lemon and ginger beer). We might walk across the street and catch a movie afterwards.
No trip to Colorado is complete without visiting one of our craft breweries. My favorite is Bristol Brewing Company (1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs). Try the Beehive, American Wheat Ale with local honey.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has always been my support system. From the time I was little I was taught to think outside the box, that success comes in many forms and not to be chained to the idea of a 9-5.
Website: https://rebeccasherrow.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccasherrow/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cerisecherieblog
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw5e-GInLq-0MyFDDwqnfeg/featured