Balancing Flames and Frames: My Journey to Becoming a Photographer as a Full-Time Firefighter and Mom
Introduction:
Becoming a photographer wasn't something I always planned. My life has been a whirlwind of a lot of things, most importantly, being a mom to two wonderful children—Emory and Stetson. But amidst the chaos, I discovered a passion for photography that has since become a significant part of my life. Here’s how I made it happen, balancing a demanding career, motherhood, and my creative dreams.
Discovering My Passion:
My love for photography started as a simple hobby. I found myself reaching for my camera whenever I had a rare moment of quiet. The lens became a way to capture the fleeting moments of my children’s lives, the way they looked at the world, and the love and joy that filled our home. These small moments made me realize how powerful a single photograph could be, not just for preserving memories, but for telling stories.
Balancing Act:
Juggling a full-time career as a firefighter/paramedic with being a mom is no small feat. The unpredictability of my job means long hours, night shifts, and missed family dinners. Yet, amidst the demands, I found solace in photography. It became my creative outlet, a way to decompress and focus on something I loved outside of work and parenting.
Finding time to nurture this passion wasn’t easy. I often had to shoot during early mornings after shift or late at night when the kids were asleep. Weekends became my time to explore photography further, with my children often being my favorite subjects. They’ve grown up in front of my camera, and watching them through the lens has deepened my understanding of both motherhood and photography.
Turning Passion into Profession:
As my skills developed, I started sharing my work online. The positive feedback was overwhelming and encouraging. Before long, friends and family started requesting that I capture their significant moments—from birthday milestones and updated family portraits to small, everyday life changes. This was the turning point where I realized that photography could be more than just a hobby; it could be a career.
With this in mind, I took the plunge and began investing in better equipment and taking online courses to hone my skills. I learned about lighting, composition, and post-processing, all while managing my time between shifts and entertaining two toddlers. Each step was a challenge, but also incredibly rewarding.
The Firefighter Photographer:
My dual identity as a firefighter and photographer has brought a unique perspective to my work. The discipline, attention to detail, and ability to remain calm under pressure—skills honed in the firehouse—have served me well in photography. Whether capturing the tranquil beauty of a landscape or the subtle moments of daily life, I bring the same level of focus and dedication to every photograph.
Moreover, my experience as a paramedic has deepened my empathy, allowing me to connect with my subjects on a personal level. Photography isn’t just about clicking a button; it’s about understanding the story behind the image, the emotions, and the people. This connection is what makes my work special.
Balancing Motherhood and Creativity:
Being a mom has taught me to see the world through the eyes of my children—full of wonder, curiosity, and endless possibilities. This perspective influences my photography, helping me capture the innocence and joy in every moment. My children are often involved in my creative process, whether they’re helping me scout locations or simply being my muses.
I’ve learned to balance motherhood and my passion for photography by being organized and prioritizing what matters most. Sometimes that means putting down the camera to enjoy a moment, and other times it means asking my kids to be patient while I get “just one more shot”. It’s a dance, but one that I’ve learned to navigate with love and flexibility.
Conclusion:
Becoming a photographer while being a full-time firefighter/paramedic and a mom has been an incredible journey. It’s a path that wasn’t always easy, but it has been deeply fulfilling. Photography has given me a way to express myself, to capture the beauty in everyday life, and to connect with others through shared stories and experiences.
If you’re considering a similar path, my advice is to start small and be patient with yourself. Balancing multiple roles is challenging, but it’s also what makes your perspective unique. Embrace the journey, cherish the learning process, and most importantly, never stop capturing the moments that matter to you.
Photography has become more than just a passion for me; it’s a part of who I am—a firefighter, a mom, and a storyteller through the lens.
