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

Hi Emma, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
The work-life balance is something I’ve definitely had to work on. Early on in my journey I would just take whatever work I could, over working myself and even doing jobs I didn’t t really want to take on. I was passionate and wanted to say yes to everyone. I started to struggle with dicing my personal and work life. As I’ve grown I’m more intentional about setting boundaries and taking on clients. I’ve learned it’s important to prioritize yourself and not to become burnout by overworking. I also think it’s easier said than done, there’s plenty of times where I still struggle with the balance. Ultimately, it’s about recognizing it and knowing when to pause and remember that balance and that allows me to be my best self and also the best photographer!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey hasn’t been easy of course. Especially recently but that’s what makes it meaningful. One of my biggest struggles is self-doubt and the unpredictability of being a full time photographer. There’s so many moments where I wonder if I know what I’m doing or I ask myself what am I doing wrong. I’ve learned to embrace rejection and also believe in myself. I’m not going to be the right photographer for everyone and that’s okay. I’m passionate in capturing the real moments, it’s more than a photograph. I’m preserving those specific moments that so many will look back on forever. I’m more than just your photographer, we’ll spend all day together and possibly even multiple days so I think it’s important to develop real relationships with my clients.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Socal has such a variety of places. I’m a huge foodie so plenty of food would be had. Would definitely have to start by visiting some of my favorite places, Laguna Beach is somewhere I work often and also just love to go to. Driving up past Crystal Cove for lunch to Ghost Sandwiches in Huntington Beach and going to my favorite italian food spot Mama D’s in Corona Del Mar for dinner. Another one of my favorite spots is Sunset Cliffs, you have to stop at Better Buzz and get a lavendar tea latte. If I’m not by the beach then I’m usually in Joshua Tree, anywhere in JT is so fun to stop at and look at everything!

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?
Always a huge thank you and shoutout to my clients as well as the photography community! I would be no where without both of them!

Website: https://photosbyemmaj.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/photosbyemmaj

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Photos-by-Emma-100063499605776/

Yelp: https://yelp.to/21E-SRiDiy

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.