I'm beginning to LOVE this day of the week! We have SHYLA DALIRIFAR today people! She's an amazing photographer out of Southern California. Her work has a very distinctive, fashion feel. More importantly, her photography is filled with emotion. Whether it's a bride, or a child, Shlya obviously has a talent for taking the moments of her subjects lives, and composing them beautifully. As you will see, she has also had the privilege of studying with some of the best photographers in the WORLD. Yes, I do mean IN THE WHOLE WORLD.

What drew you to photography?

As an only child for 12 years, I was the subject of my mother's love for photography and was always in front of the camera for her snapping pleausre. Thus since I've always been an artist dabbling in drawing, painting and sculpting etc, photogaphy simply offered another medium to use with my palette. So what began as my mothers's hobby has since led to my career. :)

Are you self taught or do you have formal training?

Aside from a few B&W classes in school I was not trained in a formal institution. I have however, been trained 'formally' by the best in the biz. Photographers like Mike Colon (www.mikecolon.com), David Jay (www.davidjay.com) and Jessica Claire (www.jcsphoto.com), all poured into me in the early stages which has ultimately been far more valuable than anything I could have learned in a classroom or darkroom. Hands-on experience through thier guidance is by far the best training I could ask for.

How did you make the leap from amateur to professional?

Oddly enough, I still consider myself and amateur (a Pad-wan learner, if you will). According to Webster's Dictionay, 'amateur' means learner, and I am constantly learning. There is always more to learn and that in my opinion, is what keeps it exciting! Without a desire to learn you stifle yourself from evolving or becoming more skilled at your craft. Perhaps the better answer would be to exlain the point when I decied to make it a career vs. a hobby. Being stubborn has proved beneficial in this aspect becasue hearing labels such as..."You can never make money in photography" and "it could never be more than a hobby if you want to be successful in life" fueled the spark which eventually led to the fire of passion I have for this craft.That in and of itself was enough to push me over the edge and go wholeheartedly after my dreams...

What did you do to start?

I began through interning and placing myself under the mentorship of people I respect and admire. Through their generous investments of time and wisdom I gleaned the skills needed to branch out on my own. The next step was building a client base one by one and enabling them to evangelize you...which then brings in more business. I also invested in books. Solid reading material that shed light on the areas I had no prior experience in (such as business:)) 

What inspires you?

I am inspired by Creative People...Individuals who have a passion and zest for life...and those who give their lives to something greater than themselves.

What other jobs have you had?

Oh goodness...I have been a bank teller, a Children's Pastor, Fine Arts Coordinator for a local college, Nanny, and even Interior Designer.

What's your favorite part about being a photographer?

My favorite part is waking up each day knowing I get to live my dreams of doing what I love.

Least favorite?

The amount of time I have to spend at the computer instead of enjoying Southern California sunshine!

How do you deal with creative blocks?

I try to avoid creative blocks by not allowing them! Always have a backup plan. For me, this involves studying magazines or other photographer's work and taking notes! Not just mental notes, but PHYSICAL notes. I have a small notebook I keep with drawings of ideas or magazine clippings that I whip out when it seems my creative juices have been tapped.

How do you define success?

Success is living your life to it's fullest potential and never settleing for anything less. Success isn't measured in accomplishments, awards, or accolades...but in impact and legacies. To me, success is making a mark with your life that will span to the next generation and beyond. I belive it is a journey vs. a destination.

Who is your favorite photographer and why?

My 'favorites' list is constantly evolving and I could never choose just one, but ONE of my favoritesis John Micheal Cooper of altF photography. (www.altf.com) He takes photography to the next level with his outrageous style and personality. Constantly living on the edge and never settling for mediocrity, JMC offers his art as an experience. His approach forces you to abandon preconceived ideas and embrace the freedom of creativity...which, to me, is truly inspiring!

Do you have a favorite lens?

I LOVE my 50mm. I really enjoy the intimacy delivered by a prime lens such as the 50.

What do you do to get a great shot in bad lighting?

I have a habit of always shooting wide open so beyond that, my advice is to stop TRYING and just shoot. A great shot doesn't hae to be perfectly exposed or precisely in focus. I try to embrace the situation and convince myself that a textbook perfect image isn't what always stets you apart from the crowd. Challenge yourself to create an image with what you are given rather than simply accepting what is handed to you.

If you want to see her work, go here. And find out more about her recent adventures, here. And check back tomorrow for a Shyla's Photo Tip!

Thanks Shyla!

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