ARTIST OF THE MONTH - MEG LOEKS
Here we go. It's a new year, our 2017 Artists of the Year have been honored, so it is time now to focus back on our Artists of the Month-features. We are so excited to start this year with the amazing Megan Loeks from Michigan. Are you looking for inspiration in family photography? Then you should definitely have a look at Meg's beautiful and unique work, which is full of stories and emotions...
How old are you and where are you from?
I’m 33 years old and from a small farming community in West Michigan.
Tell us a little bit about your life in the moment?
I live with my husband and three little boys, ages 2-6, in a remote area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I’m a photography instructor through Click Photo School. I recently stopped doing client work to allow for more family time. I spend a good portion of my time outside with my family. That is where I feel most comfortable and grounded. We enjoy hiking and make a point to explore a new area once a week.
How did you end up being a photographer?
I started out shooting film in high school. My favorite part of film was always the developing stage. I loved spending time in the dark room. I switched to digital while in high school after I joined the yearbook staff. It wasn’t until I started having children that I found my voice and developed my style. My children and nature became my greatest inspirations. I’m drawn to lifestyle, environmental portraits and fine art and love to merge the different genres together.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
Twenty years from now my children will be grown and forging their own way. I know that there will come a day when they are not my main subjects. I’ve always been drawn to nature and see myself eventually transitioning to more of a landscape photographer. I also hope that in 20 years I’m still actively teaching photography.
What gear are you currently using?
I shoot with a Canon Mark IV. My favorite lenses are the Sigma Art 85mm, Sigma Art 135mm, Canon 35mm 1.4L version ii and Sigma Art 24mm. I also love to occasionally shoot with my Lensbaby Velvet 56mm.
What advice could you give out to a new starting photographer?
I think one thing most photographer’s struggle with at some point in their career is finding their voice. I think it’s important to know that it takes time and that you’re not alone. For some it could take years. Not only that but it’s ever evolving. My advice is to let go and embrace change. Study those who inspire you. Figure out what it is that you love about their work. Incorporate that into your style and make it your own.
We know the photography field is heavily saturated. I guarantee you will only find passion by shooting and producing what you are drawn to, regardless if that is what everyone around you is doing or not.
Did the LLF community changed the way you see or shoot kids, lifestyle etc.?
I have found a lot of incredible artists through the LLF community. That alone has been a huge inspiration. I’ve learned new creative techniques both in how I shoot and in post processing because of the community. Many of the artists I’ve been inspired by don’t even shoot the same genres as I do. I think the diversity is one of the things that makes this community so wonderful.
What plans do you have for 2018?
Some of my personal goals for 2018 are to create a monthly video, take a couple of workshops (one on video) and dabble more in artificial light. Every year I try to take several photography workshops. I always learn something new and I value the CC.
SEE MORE OF MEG'S WORK
