Meet Patti Monson | Photographer specializing in equestrians and equestrian lifestyle

We had the good fortune of connecting with Patti Monson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patti, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
When I launched my photography business, I honestly never thought about the business side of it and all there is to running a business. I am learning to reach out to other’s whose expertise is in areas that I am not strong in and don’t necessarily like doing, like marketing and website building for example.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My photography is centered primarily around women and their animals. I am mostly known for my equine photography and capturing the moments between equines and their humans that speak to the heart. What truly sets my work apart is my dedication to making my clients and their cherished companions feel at ease in front of my camera. I understand that the key to authentic, captivating photography is a relaxed and natural atmosphere. Whether it’s a gentle nuzzle from the horse, a candid smile, or a shared moment of trust. This year I would like to expand my business more into of the dog world with the same emphasis on the animal human bond.

Just keeping up with the ever changing technology is a challenge in itself for any business. Thankfully, I enjoy learning, experimenting and challenging myself to find new ways to exceed my client’s experience. There are so many facets to running a photography business that are behind the scenes but I love what I do and wouldn’t change a thing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I actually live outside of the city so I would take my visiting friend to places local to me like Vasquez Rocks which is in northern Los Angeles County. Vasquez Rocks is an iconic location where you can ride your horses, hike and of course climb rocks. I was once riding my horse through the park and met some people from Australia who were visiting They said it was on the top of their places to see list. Many movies have been filmed there (too many to mention). The historic Pacific Crest Trail also passes through the park. We would then go to the most adorable coffee shop called Perkin’ Up Coffee House. There we could get a hot or cold beverage and breakfast or lunch. I find the locals have the best food and service. If it happens to be spring time we would go to the poppy preserve in West Lancaster and see the acres and acres of orange California poppies.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many photographers that inspire me. Phyllis Burchett is definitely at the top of my list as both a photographer and a teacher. I have taken several of her workshops now and always learn something new. Even though she is well known, she is very down to earth and a joy to be around. She creates a great environment to learn in. I think that’s one reason she is such a great teacher. That and the fact that she is not afraid to share her knowledge and trade secretes with others! She has a way of making extraordinary art out of the ordinary with her beautiful editing style.

Website: pattimonsonphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/patti_monson/

Linkedin: Patti Monson

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pattimonsonphotography

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/patti-monson-photography-acton

Image Credits
All Images are mine Patti Monson Photography with the exception of the image of me with the camera ~ photo credit to Lolo Spencer e-mail at laurie@lolospencerphotography.com website: lolospencerphotography.com