Meet Amelia Pollard | Photographer & Business Owner

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

Hi Amelia, what makes you happy? Why?
The part of photography that makes me the most happy is capturing people and allowing them to see themselves in a positive and beautiful light, just as I see them. I love to help others overcome their self-criticism and embrace their own beauty. Through photography, I aim to challenge the narrative perpetuated by the mainstream media/advertising that encourages us to be dissatisfied with ourselves. Instead, I strive to promote self-acceptance and celebrate the beauty in all individuals. By photographing authentic moments and showcasing the differing  human experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and find joy in their own reflection; this is what truly inspires the type of photography I do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up I was always creative. I liked to draw and paint and really enjoyed all art classes I took in school. I remember my parents telling me that even as a toddler starting to scribble that, while a lot of the other kids my age would draw stick figures I was giving my figures  human form. Creativity just seemed to come really natural to me, and so pursuing a career that allowed me to dive into that and work with people. Both things of which I’m really passionate about seemed like an obvious choice.

I went college and received my Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in photography and have gained technical skills from school. These skills accompanied by my creative tendencies are something that makes the photos that I create for clients unique to my brand.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I moved to Orange County CA from Upstate NY at the end of 2019 and have rebuilt my photography business and clientele in a new location. Living in California has been an absolute dream for me.

I love when friends and family visit and I get the chance to wine & dine them. I’m a beach girl so heading down to the ocean is a must-do whenever I have visitors. I like Laguna & Corona Del Mar the best because of the gorgeous rocks and tide pools to explore. Those beaches are also some of my favorite photo locations so that’s always top of the list to take visitors.

Orange County has so many different amazing food options. Going to Malibu Farms in Newport, Din Tai Fung in Costa Mesa, Philz Coffee & Strong Water Bar in Anaheim are some of my favorite food & drink options to take visitors to.
Honestly I absolutely love living in California and there are endless lists of great things to see, do and eat in the area.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Throughout my journey as a photographer and business owner I have been fortunate to encounter numerous individuals who have significantly influenced me. The professors from colleges have played a crucial role in challenging and refining my artistic skills. Additionally, I am so incredibly  grateful for the clients who entrusted me with their projects when I was still a novice in the field of photography; their support and belief in my abilities have been so honoring and have helped me get to the place I am now.

Three very close individuals who have played a large role in where I am today is my husband Cary Pollard, my photographer colleague Jordan Proietti & my sister and fellow wedding photographer/videographer Tirzah Schneider.

My husband Cary has always supported me in my business and has encouraged me in all aspects of photography. He’s a huge help with our kids when it comes to me preparing, shooting and editing and is honestly a huge reason I’m able to do what I love.

Jordan has been someone I can and have always gone to with business and creative questions. He’s always available for me to ask him to critique my work and has been a huge encouragement. He’s a great friend and artist who has helped me so much throughout my career.

When I was just a few years into my journey as a business owner I started to teach & train my younger sister in photography. Having someone to teach not only helped me reevaluate how I go about creativity and technique but also gave me the skill of communicating well. Tirzah has also been someone I can go to and trust with critique of my work.

Undoubtedly, there are many more individuals who have impacted my career and I am grateful for each and every one of them.

Website: edelweissphotography.net

Instagram: @edelweissphotos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rochesteredelweiss/

Other: Tiktok – @edelweissphotos