Behind the Camera With Regan Conroy Photography
For this issue, we had the pleasure of interviewing photographer and business owner, Regan Conroy. As the photographer behind Issue 14’s cover, Regan’s portrait photography style is effortless and natural. Read on to learn more about her journey with photography, what inspires her, and tips for aspiring photographers!
First, tell us a little bit about your background and how you got started with photography.
I have had an interest in photography since I was very young. I can vividly remember the first photo I took on my little pink camera, of my 4-year-old cousin at her birthday party, jumping on a moon bounce, smiling so big. I thought I was the coolest person to walk the earth. Just an average 10 year old that would be famous! But, I was so proud of that photo in that moment and I think ever since that day, I knew that this was something I want to do forever (as crazy as that sounds). When I turned 13, I got my first “real” camera and have been taking photos for others ever since. Probably not the most exciting background story of how I got to where I am today, but my instincts were right! Now, 10 years later, I have turned my hobby into my full-time job, that has become the love of my life!
I am so thankful that this job will never feel like work to me, which is all I could ever dream of.
How would you describe your approach to portrait photography?
My ultimate goal for every session I photograph is for my portraits to be as timeless and authentic as possible. I’ve always loved a bright and airy look in photographs and that is what I have worked to turn my brand into.
I strive to make my sessions as effortless and natural as can be for the clients because I find that to be so important. The photographs are meant to be looked back on forever, so I want people to feel that when they look at my portraits!
Each client I work with has their own personality and unique touch, and I want to bring that to life during the session.
What details do you believe make the best photographs and how do you go about focusing on them in your work?
I feel that details can vary depending on the session. Getting to know my clients helps me determine what details are key to that specific session. Candid portraits are my favorite: the ones that aren’t posed or forced. The ones with pure laughter and real smiles, those details are very important to me. With my senior portrait sessions, I allow my seniors to choose up to 3 outfits for variety in their session, and those details make the photographs unique and stand out!
Photo: Regan Conroy Photography
Has there been a favorite photoshoot that you’ve done so far?
I could go back though years and years of photoshoots, but I don’t think I would ever be able to choose just one favorite. Over the past 2-3 years, I have developed a passion for senior portrait photography. I have had sessions where I go home, look through them, and they almost bring tears to my eyes. I have loved an endless amount of sessions. I can’t wait to have a million more favorites as they keep getting better and better!
Tell us about your location scouting process.
Photo: Regan Conroy Photography
Over the years, I have found a few places that I frequent very often for my sessions. I am so comfortable with the locations I use, it feels like they are my second home. I am always open to trying new locations that my clients recommend as well. My absolute favorite time to shoot is golden hour, right before the sun goes down, which adds a beautiful glow to the portraits I take. I feel that it has become a part of my brand now. The golden hour vibe is as magical as it gets; it is truly captivating!
Do you have any advice for aspiring photographers on how to improve their skill and gain a clientele base?
My best advice to other photographers is to always give their all to each session. Every session is a learning experience that will help you grow as a photographer in all aspects. Learn from your mistakes, or even something you are proud of. Bring all of the knowledge with you as you go. Over the years, I have learned that it is so important to make your clients as comfortable as they can be. One of my favorite things about this job is that I get walk away from my sessions with new friends every single time, and that is something I am truly thankful for!
Photo: Regan Conroy Photography
Do you have a favorite photographer or inspiration that you look up to?
I would say that I have a handful of photographers that inspire me with every photo they post. I am so thankful for social media for introducing me to all of these photographers all over the world, and over the years, I have developed my own brand to my photos by putting together all of the inspiration I have gathered from each one! There are so many talented photographers that inspire me to expand my horizons and try new things.
How can a client book a photography session with you?
Clients can reach out to me via email or over the phone. Social media has been one of the best things that has happened for my business. I am so lucky to have clients that promote my work and support me by giving my name to others!
Book a session with Regan on www.reganconroyphotography.smugmug.com
or send an inquiry to reganconroyphoto@yahoo.com
Be sure to follow Regan on Instagram at @reganconroyphotography and on Facebook!