Meet Gillian Becker | Photographer

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

Hi Gillian, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I took a risk by simply deciding to become an artist, but it was something I just knew I had to do. Risks can certainly put me out of my comfort zone, but if I was always just “comfortable” I would never grow as a person or an artist. I think taking risks is a vital part of life and any art career. You have to be willing to put in the work and be okay with failing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My approach to photography is very methodical. I’m always seeking out the best moment to capture my clients and paying attention to every little detail. I want to be present and have people look back at their images feeling as though the memory of their day could last forever. I tend to describe myself as a lifestyle photographer because I do a little bit of everything from weddings, fashion shoots, headshots, products and interiors. By not putting myself in a specific category my creativity can thrive and spread to all different avenues. I’ve learned to go with the flow because you can’t control every aspect of a photoshoot, unless I’m working in a studio setting, then I get to be more directorial which is a really nice change of pace. It’s certainly not easy starting out, trying to build a clientele, you have to be willing to put yourself and your work out into the world and see what happens. Saying yes to every opportunity, even if it’s out of my comfort zone has really helped me grow and learn along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While I might not be a local, Miami has a reputation for having some of the best food and of course a killer nightlife scene. In my experience you’re going to want to start your day off in Wynwood to look at street art, but more importantly to have brunch at Beaker and Gray, after having arguably the best Cuban inspired breakfast you’ll be thirsty. Grab a watermelon margarita from Bakan (they have over 100 tequilas) or a small lunch. If you’re into shopping you might as well do it in style and head over to the design district. After that, take a drive to South Beach for a relaxing pool and seaside experience at the Lido Deck. The views are incredible, as are the drinks and food, but I would probably just grab a light snack because you’ll want to save room for Azabu. If you can get a reservation I would also suggest going to Sexy Fish. Both are incredible, with amazing service, cocktails and a creative menu. I can promise you that it doesn’t really matter where you go, you’ll have a great time regardless.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents certainly deserve the most credit for raising me to be myself and for always supporting my art endeavors. If my career choice ever made them nervous, they never showed it nor did they try to talk me out of it. Attending Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, MI had a huge impact and I will always be grateful for my professors who pushed me, saw potential, and helped me along the way. Kendall brought me not only the most amazing colleagues but life long friends and introduced me to the person who I am with today.

Website: https://gg-beckerphotography.squarespace.com

Instagram: @gillianbecker

Linkedin: Gillian-Becker

Image Credits
Gillian Becker