We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittinny Longo and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brittinny, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After the birth of my first child I knew I wanted a more flexible career. I was a high school teacher, and wanted to be able to be more present. I always had an interest in photography. In 2013 my husband gifted me my first DSLR camera. I waited to really use it until I had children.
The better I got at it, the more I was asked by friends and family to photograph them. And when my daughter started school full-time I decided to pursue photography as my full-time career. I asked friend sin the business for help, taught myself a lot, and practiced— that was 2019.
Once I decided “I am a photographer” I was able to really grow my business. With the growth I am still able to volunteer weekly in my kid’s classrooms, help coach sports and be at every event with them I can. That was the goal.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a photographer one of my strengths is connecting with clients. I mostly photograph families and I get so much joy capturing each new family I meet. I have always been quote “good with children” and in this profession it is a necessity. Without my ability to work with kids, have patience, gain their trust, and help them laugh I would not have the returning clientele I do. I enjoy seeing each family year after year and their kids grow!
One of the things that really helped my growth was believing in myself. I know it sounds cliché, but it is true. I used to find it hard to say I was a photographer. One year, a January like this very one, I said to myself, “I am a photographer.” Once I did that I was able to put the time and effort into it that I needed to grow. Not only to grow my client base, but to become a better artist, to find my style, and what sets me apart. The last year of work has really cemented what my style is; and that feels so good!
One of the challenges of being an artist is always second guessing your work. Sometimes I do think I nailed a session, or am just in awe of all the good shots I got. Other times there is a lot of tweaking, and second guessing my edits, or my choices. My first few years I tried different styles and it took me 4 years to really nail down who I am as an artist.
The photography community, especially in North County San Diego, is extremely supportive. A lot of us are mothers first, photographers second. Whenever I run into an obstacle, they are there to help me trouble shoot. I am so thankful for the community. We are all great about cheering each other on and helping each other out.
Photos are an important part of preserving memories, and in some way time. Photos can evoke emotions from the time. When I look at photos of my kids when they were small, or my wedding day, or my mom and me when I was young, there are feelings that come with each photograph. It’s one of the main reasons I do this job. Seeing the love and the joy in each family brings me joy. I am always in a better mood after a session. The photographs I give are special to me because I know the family will enjoy them forever.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a true homebody. And I am not ashamed! I would love to show my BF all of North County so we can stay close to home. We’d stop at Bump Coffee in Leucadia for my favorite decaf coffee. From there we’d stroll along the rail trail and look at the surf.
We’d take our kids to Seaside Reef to play at the beach and lounge in the sun. After we’d pop over to Fish 101 for poke bowls.
On repeat we’d try all the best coffee spots in town (because even though I drink decaf, I love coffee): Lofty Coffee for the Salted Carmel Latte, Queenstage, Bump again, and Rosewood in Cardiff.
We would have to eat at Blue Fin Sushi in Encinitas, our family favorite. Next we’d stop at Corner Pizza, Hamburger Hut and Valentina. Like I said, I like to stay close to home. One night we’d have to travel downtown to Little Italy for pasta or OB Noodle House for Pho.
During the day we’d hike Torrey Pines, Annie’s Canyon and if it’s not too hot Potato Chip Rock. La Jolla is always fun to visor and see the seals and explore the cave.
If we are lucky there would be a good show playing at the Shell, a concert at Moonlight or a movie in the park.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The photography community online and in San Diego. With the support of many other brilliant photographers I have been able to build my brand. I also am thankful for the family and friends that have trusted me since the beginning and believed in me! My husband has always been supportive and encouraging for me to pursue this career.
Website: www.britlongophotography.com
Instagram: @britlongophotography
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/britlongophotography
Other: Email: britlongophotography@gmail.com