Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Griffin.
Hi Erica, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
When I was growing up, I knew for a fact that I wanted to be an artist of some sort. My journey started when I attended the University Of Cincinnati. At that time I had 2 young kids so thinking of what to become was a far reach, but I knew it was possible. I got my first camera which was a Olympus Pen, at first I only used it for the Photography class assignments but then I started using it for capturing my kids, family, and street art.
This really pushed me to thinking about making this a career/business. My second camera was a Canon T3I, that’s when I started the first photography business called Griffin Photography in 2015, that was short lived because of a bunch of personal setbacks. In 2017 I started back up and came up with a better name that matched my work Captivated Impressions. This brings me to purchase a Canon 5D Mark IV. And I love it!!!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
First off being a single mother of 2 made it hard, sleepless nights, working 2 jobs and going to school was a long obstacle course. But now when I look back at it, I laugh and say it was worth it. At times I felt discouraged and felt like I would never be able to accomplish this, but with my support system and changing my mindset, I’m improving. I struggled with finding a mentor and when I would ask other photographers in the city about things they were so uptight and didn’t want to share information. I wanted to just give up, and push it aside and work in a office, but I couldn’t. Last but most importantly Financials, I work 40 hours a week, while doing photography. I fund my business. This is a struggle especially when Covid hit in 2020. I had to make a decision and end my lease of 2 years, and switched to traveling to different studio spaces throughout Cincinnati and Kentucky area. I ultimately adapt to strive, survive and grow.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love to work close with my clients so I can better understand what they want to get out of the session. I treat them equal, cause I feel like the session is more of a collaboration. I specialize in portraits such as Maternity, Couples/Weddings, and Business. I’m known for my personality, even though I’m an introvert a lot of people flock towards me. I’m most proud of my ability to adapt to any situation. What sets me apart from others is my set of eyes, I’m the only one with my mind and vision.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I paint Abstract art, and I just started painting and designing my own backdrops. I write short and feature films, For my Capstone project in college, I wrote and produced, edited, and directed my first documentary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z_KzrGyyyc.
Pricing:
- 1hr Portrait Session $300
- 2hr Portrait Session $500
- Weddings starting at $2500 6hr-full coverage
- Branding Sessions start at $300
Contact Info:
- Email: info@captivatedimpressions.com
- Website: www.captivatedimpressions.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captivated_impressions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/captivatedimpressionsLLC
Image Credits
Captivated Impressions
