Meet Elizabeth E. George | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth E. George and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth E., putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
The single most important decision I have made and continue to do so that contributes to my success is to take fear out of the equation. It’s actually more like “take a back seat”. I know it’s there, but I am in control of my wheel, my art, my life. By believing in myself, stepping outside my comfort zone, and being open to opportunities, I have been able to grow in ways as a photographer I never knew possible. It takes courage to put oneself out in the public eye, but you can’t win if you’re not going to play the game.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a digital photographer, I am able to get instant gratification just by looking at the back of my camera. My goal is to capture the essence of my subjects, be it nature, wildlife, people or even architecture. Knowing right away if I was able to do so is a luxury. I can always, always take as many photos as I please and not worry about running out of film. Again, a luxury. The digital world has made photographing so much easier.

With a lot of practice, I have learned to “see my next shot”. Doing so requires patience on my end and a keen intuition. I don’t do studio work, so I guess that would set me apart from others. I photograph mostly outdoors. I also photograph a lot of concerts. Thankfully, the stage lighting is usually pretty good. Out of respect for those on stage, I do NOT use flash and the musicians greatly appreciate it and most often request no flash!

It thrills me when I see one or more of my images in print, be it a magazine, newspaper, cd cover, whatever. It always makes me giddy and one step closer to my bucket list ( NAT GEO, & RS).

Capturing the essence of my subjects is more than just taking a photograph. It’s creating art. It’s shining light on my subjects. It’s telling a story. I guess you could say I am an artist. I “paint” with my camera and “write” a poem with every image.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have had several friends visit over the years and I always take them to my favorite hang-outs. Railroad Square Art District is THE place to be the first Friday of every month. The First Friday Gallery Hop offers music, studios, galleries and eclectic shops as well as food trucks galore. Something for everyone. Locally owned restaurants are a must for me. My favorites are Kool Beanz, Aauru’s, Vertigo Burgers and La Tiendita.
Of course, I always show my friends where I take my nature photos. St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge is an easy 45 minute drive. No two days are the same there so you never know what ones sees. Eagles, otters, gators, deer and endless migratory birds and butterflies (in October). It’s a beautiful place and should not be missed if you’re ever in the area.
The nightlife in Tallahassee is constant. Music is played somewhere every day of the week. I love the intimate atmosphere of Blue Tavern. It’s a cafe/bar/music venue. Who could ask for more!
And for THE MOST delicious treats, I head to Au Peche Mignon French Pastry Shop. Not only do they sell the best cakes, brioche, and chocolates, they also have gluten-free options. It’s a definite stop for me and my friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would not be where I am today without the love and support of my family and mentors. I fell in love with photography when my mother handed me her instamatic camera. I was 9 years old. It was 1971. Thank goodness I was able to attend a high school, (North Miami Beach HS) where they offered photography classes. From there, life took me down another direction. I raised a family and taught GED classes for 28 years. During that time, I took photos for the school I work in and of course, took photos of my children. Believe it or not, it was Oprah who inspired me to live my passion. I was 50 yrs old and really wanted to be the photographer I had always dreamed about as a child. As a teen, I would cut out photos from National Geographic magazine and write poems about the images. Rolling Stone magazine was another source of inspiration. Who doesn’t want to get their photo “on the cover of Rolling Stone”! My younger brother, David, gifted me with an ipad (for my 50th birthday) and my two daughters (Erin and Sarah) encouraged me along the way. At 62, I find I am surrounded by so many in my community here in Tallahassee, who believe in my work and offer me opportunities to shine. There are too many to mention, but they know who they are. It takes a village and I am so lucky to have an incredible one at that.

Website: www.eegeorge.com

Instagram: @eegeorge_photography

Facebook: Elizabeth E. George Photography