With a focus on creative portrait photography, Heather Rowland aims to create natural-looking photos, which she accomplishes by experimenting with different editing styles.

W: Can you tell us how you got your start?
HR: In November of 2013 I was given a 35mm Canon AE-1. I think I shot around 5 rolls within the first weekend of having it. I never had a hobby that I was this enthralled by. It was an amazing feeling to get lost through my lens.

W: What is your biggest inspiration?
HR: My biggest inspirations are all of the local photographers I have come to meet and work with. I love sharing ideas – inspiring each other. Another huge inspiration is my boyfriend, Jordon. He’s constantly pushing me to break my barriers and push myself forward. He’s my biggest fan.

W: How would you describe your style?
HR: My style is ever-changing. I try to stick to a natural feel, not too forced or unrealistic. Some days I feel brighter, less contrast; other days I am feeling shadows and lots of clarity. I am still trying to find my signature editing style, its a fun journey.

W: Tell us the story behind one of the photos we’re featuring – why did you choose that photo to send?
HR: One of my favorite photos out of this set is the photo of my close friend Madison in a bathtub. This photo is especially important to me because it’s probably one of the most beautiful images I’ve ever taken. I think I had her slide into the water about 6 or 7 times before I came out with this image. She just looks so elegant and captivating.

W: Where are your favorite spots to shoot?
HR: My favorite places to shoot really depend on the day. The mountains are an obvious favorite, especially when everything is overwhelmingly green. I also love urban locations, downtown Salt Lake City has endless possibilities.

W: What kind of equipment do you use?
HR: My first camera is a 35mm Canon AE-1 with a 50mm 2.8 and a 27-70mm 2.8. My digital is a Canon 70D with an 85mm 1.8, 28mm 1.8, 50mm 1.8 and a 18-135mm 3.5-5.6.

W: Do you have any special techniques? Do they define your style?
HR: I don’t think I necessarily have any special techniques. I try to make my clients feel like they aren’t in front of a camera, I love to catch those in-between moments. I’ve also been recently trying out shooting through different mediums.

W: What challenges have you had to overcome in this industry?
HR: My biggest challenge I’ve had to overcome is my own scrutiny. I am my own worst critic. I had to come to the realization that I can’t compare my art to the art of others. My work is different than theirs, and I am proud of that. I could stand side by side with a fellow photographer shooting the same model and our images would be completely different. It took me a long time to realize this.

W: How do you see your career progressing?
HR: My ultimate goal in life is to make photography my career. I want to shoot all forms and styles. I don’t want to limit myself to one particular type of photography. I have also thought about dabbling in videography. At the end of the day, I just want people to recognize and enjoy my art.

Heather is based in Salt Lake City, Utah
Contact her on Instagram: hnrphotog
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