Meet Erica Wallace: Photographer and Videographer

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

Hi Erica, what role has risk played in your life or career?
It’s a risk not to risk. When I think about living and what that looks like, it definitely did not look like how my life was before I started photography. I love enjoying the unpredictable. It wasn’t always like this, and it took faith and a step forward to experience what life would be like without the 9-5, steady administrative schedule I had. Because I took a risk and plunged myself into this creative world of photography I have freedom in choosing my schedule, having precious time with my family, and expressing my heart with the people who trust me with their forever stills.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s nothing insanely complicated that makes me stand out. There’s the education behind photography sure, but at the end of the day it’s about the ability to make the person(s) I’m working feel as beautiful as they truly are. They are perfect just as how they were made and I love to help them know and own that truth. It makes it so much more fun too. My journey in photography and video has been driven by persistence, courage, and quite frankly not giving up. I’ve learned many lessons throughout the years and looking back, oh man did I learn a thing or two! The most valuable thing I’ve learned is the importance of feeling comfortable in my element. That is the only way that creativity can truly sprout and flourish. Also – not caring. It’s crucial to be able to express myself as a creativ. All the rules will be learned along the way but it’s so dire to not lose who I am as an artist in the process. What should the world know about my story? Well, for one my journey in this industry has been led by my christian beliefs and there’s some extra sparkles that come out of people’s eyes in bringing that aspect into my sessions (sometimes secretly).

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?
Ooo good question. I would definitely take them first to True Foods and Seabirds. Then we can stock up at Whole Foods and make some home-made meals. I’d save some time for beach wandering, trail bike riding, and some visits to outdoor shopping. Oh, and yoga. We wouldn’t be able to go without some adult fun too. Karaoke is the first thing on the list, then some mingling at Santa Monica main street or back to OC for some Triangle Square fun. Anyone that knows me knows they’re going to be in for a healthy week filled with life-giving activities and some karaoke fun.

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?
I’m going to give a huge shoutout to my husband Jonathan who’s supported my journey from the rough beginnings to now. He has been a professional in this field for what feels like a lifetime. He saw my talent from the start and his belief in my potential is what made me pursue this career with a heavy foot on the pedal. I can’t miss the support of my friend Bessie Barker. She has believed in and encouraged me to pursue this career as a ministry and it has never been the same since I worked with this intention. I can’t give myself the credit for my work, I am simply a vessel who invites the creativity of our God and the result of that is a photo with Life.

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Image Credits
hazel moments