Michelle Moore is fashion editorial and high school senior portrait photographer working in both Seattle and Los Angeles. She had the pleasure of shooting her first Magazine Cover last October with 90210 star Jessica Lowndes (See bottom of page). Michelle loves helping high school seniors see their inner and outer beauty with her boutique-like portrait experience, and bringing awareness to healthy body image through her fashion and celebrity editorial work. Learn more about Michelle and her photography at www.michellemoore.com.
How did professional photography enter your life?
I came to professional photography by a number of factors. I had taken a photography class…or three… between my senior year of high school and freshman year of college. I had a definite interest in photography, but was unsure that I would be able to create a business out of something I was so passionate about. During my sophomore year of college I was photographing bands and taking headshots for my actor friends. One day I just decided that I could start charging for my services, and therefore, start a business as a professional photographer.
Who are your influences?
I am definitely inspired by brands such as Anthropologie, Free People, We Are Handsome, Ruche – all brands that are soft and romantic. Teen brands such as Forever 21, Seventeen Magazine, Roxy – inspire me on a California, youthful side. I always have adored J.Crew and brands that have a clean polished studio work. I’m across the board for inspiration. I turn to the cinematography in movies and the lovely things from a great website called Pinterest for more inspiration as well!
What themes were iconic when you began to grow as a professional?
In college I went through a period where I was very influenced by water. It was a recurring theme in my work. Nowadays my portrait work for high school seniors is very influenced by sun, positive energy, and happiness. Iconic (and important) themes are staying consistent with my work (a light, carefree, happy vibe) no matter what I am working with in terms of natural light. This means keeping my style consistent with overcast weather, and sunny weather.
How did you develop your skill as a photographer?
A mixture: A little bit of school and A LOT of shooting! Taking pictures every day, studying the way light works and constantly examining your own work is key to developing your skills.
What is the best way to find work as a fashion and beauty photographer?
Get out there and network! Seattle is such a small community and the best way to get your name out there is to meet people!
How would you describe your photography style?
My style is natural, bright, and youthful.
How did you end up following a career in Seattle?
I was born and raised just a bit north of Seattle, went to high school and college in Seattle. My family, best friends, and network have always been here. I tried to move away, but too many factors keep me here! I have built my brand in this city. It is my home and no matter where work takes me (LA or New York, etc.) – Seattle will always be my home base.
Do you have any other photography interest other than fashion?
Fashion has always been my interest from the beginning. Before I even started taking pictures, I was always into fashion magazines and advertisements. I collected things I ripped out of magazines and pasted them all over my walls and ceiling in high school. I can’t see myself doing anything without a fashion element, like my senior portraits or celebrity editorial work.
What is you dream photo assignment?
I would love to shoot an editorial in Ireland, on the countryside with models on horses – something elaborate, enchanting and ultimately heart stopping. For a magazine, fashion spread, or celebrity, traveling somewhere unique for a photoshoot is my next dream.
If you weren’t a photographer then what would you be?
I think I would either be a Producer, or Cinematographer. I love working in a creative field and I’m very organized. I enjoy putting all the pieces together when doing a fashion shoot.
What is the best advice you received that you can pass down to potentials photographers out there?
Shoot EVERY day!
What do you love most about your job?
I love the flexibility of working for myself, creating my own hours, getting to work with the clients I want and creating something that truly helps girls feel better about themselves. Below are some of my favorite Senior Portraits!
Who would you like to thank for your success?
My family, friends, mentors and everyone that has offered support, advice and friendship along the way! (Below is my first magazine cover with 90210 star Jessica Lowndes!)
What is the photographic philosophy behind your work?
Helping to bring healthy body awareness to young teens by giving them a photoshoot experience that helps them see their own true beauty (inside and out!). Also, by working on fashion projects that help support a healthy body image in that industry as well.
Where can our viewers follow you and see more of your photos?
instagram: moorephoto
