I’m a full-time student at the University of New Hampshire up in Durham, studying International Business and Economics, and minoring in Political Science. I work part-time for CatalystCreativ running our social media. I am active in my sorority, where I have held positions as the Photography Chair and most recently, Media Assistant. And then of course, I love to visit and spend time with my family, friends, and boyfriend. This is all to say, I’m pretty busy these days! But whatever spare time I have, I almost always spend it in pursuit of one of my greatest passions: photography.
I have a side business doing single portraits, professional headshots, and couples and family portraits. And I love every aspect of it! I’ve developed a major appreciation for headshots because of how valuable they can be for the person in the photo. It’s a representation of their personal brand, and today, when almost everything is virtual, it’s important to make that great visual first impression digitally!
Even though I love shooting and editing, it’s not always easy to find the motivation after a long day of class, homework, and whatever else is crammed into my schedule! But thankfully, I’ve found plenty of sources of inspiration to keep me going and chasing after my goals as a photographer.
My Go-To Camera
Having a camera I love definitely helps make even the most challenging shoot more exciting. And since getting into photography, my absolute favorite camera brand has been Canon! I’ve had a Rebel T7 for about a year and a half now. I love my Canon and all of its memories it has captured thus far, but I am hoping to save up and upgrade to EOS 5D Mark IV soon!
My Go-To Lens
I love me an 85 mm Sigma Art Series Lens. It’s the perfect portrait lens and gives you that nice bokeh! Pictures are also crystal clear. I purchased a used one off of the amazing and reputable KEH.com. Their customer service is unmatched and their policies are awesome—I would definitely recommend them. Additionally, Adorama has a great student discount rewards program, so sometimes I will scout out discounts through there! I recently have gotten into studio lighting and purchased the AD200 Pocket Flash for a discounted price -- which is said to be extremely versatile, affordable and easily portable!
My Go-To Inspirational Photographers
For Landscape photography I love scrolling through Jamie Malcom-Brown’s Instagram! He photographs where I am from (Western Mass) and never fails to impress. His talent is out of this world.
For portrait photography, Sue Bryce is the absolute best! The detail in her photos is unmatched, but she still manages to create a smooth skin tone. It’s something I strive for in all of my portraits. She really captures the most dramatic and breathtaking images.
Locations I Would Love to Photograph:
And as far as places I’d want to photograph but haven’t had the opportunity to yet, there are many. But Mass MoCA is at the top of my list and I hope to get a chance to shoot there soon. The art in itself is incredible, but the buildings themselves are just as fascinating. This place is literally a photographer’s dream. There are endless backdrops to choose from.
(You can check out more of Libby’s photography on Instagram @libsalnicksphotos!)