Meet Your Photographer
I am a female identifying photographer (she/they pronouns) based in Minneapolis, Minnesota with 10+ years of experience. I specialize in horror, gothic or moody portraits, fantasy, and concert photography.
My style is heavily influenced by my love for horror movies and all things spooky, as well as gothic art. (Halloween is my favorite holiday for this reason). I love creating eerie images that put you on edge. The spookier, the better!
Some of my favorite horror movies include: As Above, So Below, Sinister, and the Conjuring.
When I'm not taking photos, you can catch me long boarding, watching horror movies, moshing at a concert, or hitting up the local goth club for a night out!
How I Got My Name
I am an Ojibwe and Tlingit native. One of my Ojibwe names (given to me by an elder) is Giizhigookwe (gee-zhi-goo-kway) which translates to Sky Woman. I was given that name as a kid because the colors of my eyes resembled the sky. As I have grown, the name as grown and evolved with me. Now, it means more than just my eye color. It also represents my ambition and drive to "reach for the sky."
How I Got Started
I have always been an artsy kid- whether it was drawing, painting, or some other creative project I was inspired to create. In high school, I took my first photography class and instantly fell in love. I initially learned on 35mm film and later learned digital photography and Photoshop.
I became very interested in portraits after experimenting with self-portraits. Though I still enjoy the almost meditative process of creating a self-portrait, I appreciate having more control when photographing others. I love portraits because they tell a story. Through a combination of facial expressions, makeup, costumes, and the background or setting, I can tell a story in just one (or a series) of images. You know what they say "A picture is worth 1,000 words."
I got into concert photography a few years after I initially picked up photography. Along with my love for photos, I absolutely love concerts. (Fun fact: the first concert I ever went to was Weird Al at the MN State Fair when I was 10) Music, along with any kind of art, is therapy for me. I started going to more and more local shows and thought "why not combine my two loves?" Though concert photography is quite different from portrait photography (and possesses its own set of challenges), I enjoy the fast paced, high energy environment.
Why Book With Me?
I provide a safe space to create art together for every individual that books with me. Whether you are a lover of all things horror or just looking to have some nice photos of yourself, I am here to make you feel comfortable and confident. When you get your photos back, I want you to see yourself in a new light- one that is filled with compassion and self-love. I want you to see yourself as the badass you are.
As a photographer, my job is to make your visions come to life. And if you don't have a specific concept in mind, I have ideas of my own!
At the end of the day, I love what I do. I am passionate about creating images you will love and would love to make art with you!
So what are you waiting for?
Email elissaevenson@hotmail.com for questions or to book