Capturing Moments & Creating Memories with Simply Red Photography
In the world of photography, there are artists who possess an innate ability to freeze time, capture raw emotions, and weave them into breathtaking visual narratives. Among these gifted individuals is Mikayla Miller, the passionate owner, and creative force behind Simply Red Photography. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering love for her craft, Mikayla has honed her skills over the past decade to become a trusted name in the industry.
From the moment Mikayla received her first camera as a gift from her late grandmother, she knew her destiny was intertwined with the art of photography. It was her grandmother's unwavering support and belief in her talents that ignited the spark within her. And it was her mother's wise encouragement to turn her passion into a side job during her school years that set her on the path to becoming the accomplished photographer she is today.
In those early years, Mikayla eagerly embraced every opportunity that came her way, whether it was capturing the precious moments of backyard weddings, freezing laughter-filled family portraits, or diving into various random sessions. Each click of the shutter propelled her forward, allowing her to refine her techniques, expand her portfolio, and grow as an artist.
Now, a decade later, Mikayla stands proudly as a true business owner, offering her clients a captivating blend of technical expertise and a genuine connection that transcends the lens. Her dedication to creating meaningful experiences and her commitment to immortalizing cherished memories have earned her a stellar reputation in the photography community.
Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Simply Red Photography, where Mikayla's passion for freezing time intersects with the heartfelt stories of her clients. In this exclusive Q&A session, we'll uncover the inspirations behind her artistry, her creative process, and the stories that have shaped her journey.
Stay tuned as we unravel the magic behind the lens and embark on a visual journey that celebrates the power of storytelling and the enduring beauty of precious moments. Let Simply Red Photography be your guide as we capture the essence of life, one frame at a time.
In November 2020, I had the pleasure of crossing paths with Mikayla after discovering her Instagram and some pretty stellar recommendations. Seeking professional headshots, I entrusted Mikayla with capturing my first professional headshots through her lens. The experience was unforgettable, as her attention to detail and ability to bring out the best in her subjects left me in awe. Impressed by her work, I returned this year to have my headshots redone, witnessing firsthand the growth and refinement of Mikayla's craft. Her photography is a testament to her skill and dedication, capturing moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. Check out my new headshots below!
Can you share some memorable moments from your photography journey that have shaped you as a photographer?
I think a lot of my most memorable moments include knowing that my job is more than just taking pictures; it’s giving people the gift of memories to look back on. I think knowing how happy my clients are after receiving their photos puts it in perspective for me how important my job really is.
What do you enjoy most about capturing weddings and engagements? Are there any challenges specific to this type of photography?
Engagement sessions are one of my favorites as I get to witness true love in all forms. I love watching the connection between two people in love as they are being photographed. It truly becomes an intimate moment for them. Wedding photography can have its challenges as there are many once-in-a-lifetime moments that occur on their special day, so there are occasions when the pressure is on to make sure all special moments are captured!
As a self-taught photographer, what resources or techniques have been instrumental in your growth and development?
I’ve learned a lot about how to improve my work over the years by watching tutorials online. I’ve also had amazing fellow photographers share their tips, tricks, and techniques as well. Most importantly, practicing and learning your camera settings helped my development in photography.
How do you ensure that your photography reflects the unique story and personalities of each couple you work with?
Each couple I work with has their own uniqueness and personality! I encourage them to be themselves, love & tease each other, whisper sweet things, and simply just be in the moment with their person. This really brings out the true authenticity of their love, and it’s so awesome to capture.
Are there any specific locations or venues in Lakeland or Central Florida that hold a special place in your heart for capturing beautiful moments?
Some of my favorite Florida venues special to me would be The Barn at Lazy P Ranch and October Oaks. Both are located here in central FL. I’ve had the pleasure of working with their amazing owners and staff, who provide such a magical experience for all their clients!
Can you describe your creative process, from the initial consultation to the final product?
When a client reaches out to inquire about photography services, my first approach is to learn more about them. I like to go over their ideas and overall get a better understanding of the vision they have for their session. We discuss outfit choices & colors, location options, and choose the best time of day that provides the best natural lighting. Post session editing time is up to 1.5 weeks and all clients receive their edited digital images via online downloadable photo gallery that can be printed or shared online.
How do you approach creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ couples during their photography sessions?
I think my biggest approach is making it known to my LGBTQ+ clients that I am also a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I think this makes my clients even more comfortable and inclined to be their most authentic selves during photo sessions with me! It’s so important to be yourself, and I truly believe all photographers should treat every couple the same, with kindness and love in their hearts!
What are some of the key factors that contribute to the uniqueness and personal touch in your photography, especially when capturing weddings and engagements?
When capturing weddings and engagement sessions, I like to focus on the intimate details, whether that’s a couple holding each other tight, a shot of their hands on each other’s face, their eyes closed, etc. Wedding details are important too, such as the wedding rings, florals and invitations, and details of their clothing or accessories. Details are a very crucial part of any photo session!
As Mikayla reflects on her journey and the incredible milestones she has achieved, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of growth and evolution. Looking to the future, she envisions new horizons and exciting possibilities. With a heart full of ambition, Mikayla is eager to explore the prospect of opening a dedicated studio space, where she can unleash her creativity and capture the essence of her clients in a controlled indoor environment. Alternatively, she also contemplates channeling her energy exclusively into the realm of wedding and engagement photography, where she can devote her talents to immortalizing love stories and weaving together the threads of timeless romance. With her unwavering passion, Mikayla is poised to make her mark on the photography world and continue creating awe-inspiring memories for years to come.