Student Spotlight: Meet Terri Tiffany
Terri Tiffany has such a classic and beautiful style for taking portraits. I noticed almost immediately her eye for lighting her subject in a flattering and gorgeous way. She is a student in my Perfect Portrait online editing course which paired perfectly with the way she takes photos. I love seeing her work pop up on her Facebook page and in the Cozy Clicks online student group. She definitely has a style and a beautiful way she edits. Take a look at more of Terri’s work and read what she thinks will help you as a new photographer!
Describe your photography journey.
I bought my first DSLR camera in 2014. I’ve always wanted to learn how to shoot in manual with lenses but was hesitant to take that next step. Before then I used point and shoot cameras. After I got it, I photographed flowers and landscape. I then bought a macro lens to do still life and then a longer lens for nature as I lived in Florida and loved the birds. Finally, in 2017, an author friend asked me to take a photo for her for social media. I bought a backdrop, lights and tried to learn all I could. I loved it. When we moved to PA and built our home shortly after, I designated one of the bedrooms as my new studio. Since then I’ve been on a mission to learn all I can to take great portraits.
What (or who) was your inspiration for wanting to get into photography?
I’ve always loved art and looking at photos–there came the time when I wanted to create my own art through the lens.
What type of photography do you enjoy the most and why?
I enjoy portrait photography because I love getting to know the person I’m shooting while I’m taking their picture. I was a counselor for many years so that interaction is a bonus.
Where do you see yourself as a photographer in the next 5 years?
Hopefully, I’ll be more confident in my work and someone will actually pay me.
What do you think your biggest struggles are as a photographer and what do you do to overcome them?
Confidence that I can take the photo the person hopes for. I study a lot, read and learn everything I can to prepare for each photo I take.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a brand new photographer?
Learn how your camera works. I was afraid I could never learn but once I made the choice and studied, it all made sense. Plus practice on everything. I once thought my pictures of an orange on a shelf was awesome. It wasn’t but it was a start and I learned a lot from it.
Tell us some ways or places where you continue to learn more about photography (or editing)?
I have so much to learn about editing. I owned Photoshop Elements for years but never took the time to learn how the program worked.
Describe how you find inspiration in your work.
I love to study people. I also love backdrops and finding that perfect location.
What tips do you have that would help others that are looking to advance their portrait photography skills?
Take Emily’s course! It changed my photos 100%!
How would you describe your style?
Probably more formal but I’m trying to learn how to shoot a more relaxed pose.
Where can we find you? Do you have a website or social media channel where people can follow you?
Let’s help Support Terri, by check out and liking her new Facebook Page!
To read about even more students in the Cozy Clicks courses check out all the student spotlight articles here!
