Photographer Captures Special Prom Moments in New Trend

Local photographer Lucy Schultz of Lucy Schultz Photography is this week's Business Owner of the Week. We're chatting with her about the newest trend in photography - prom photography. Schultz, 19, can often be seen around town with her camera while she's not working at or volunteering her time to take photos of homeless animals at Lowell Humane Society.

1. Tell us about the trend in prom photography. What's it about, and why?

 Prom photography is just starting up. It's a memorable and artistic way of showcasing a senior's pinnacle moment in her young life - her prom. The young lady and I work together to create a contemporary portrait of her style, expression and beauty. After the shoot, girls have something they can hold on to that they love, and that's what it's about. Not what your parents or anyone else expect to see from you - it's what you want to show the world.
 

2. What do you enjoy about this kind of photography in particular?

I enjoy everything about prom photography. I love that each of these girls is bursting with self - they're at the stage in their lives when they're ready to show the world what they're made of -and I'm there to capture that. But it can also be a time of insecurities for many girls, and I need to create an image that shows them how beautiful they really are. Even if it's just a few images from a shoot, if my subject can look at a photograph and say 'wow- I love how I look', that's when my job is done.

3. What do you do - or what are some ways - girls can make the shoot memorable? What is the atmosphere like?

Every girl brings a unique personality to the shoot, and that's what makes each session so different. I let her personality and style inspire me. We have a great time getting to know each other, laughing and talking as we walk through the outdoor location, usually at a park, forest or pond. I try to create a fun, comfortable atmosphere where girls can relax, let their walls come down and truly be themselves, letting out their inner beauty.

4. Why do you think this trend has caught on?

It was only a matter of time. Young women spend a lot of time, worry and preparation for Prom night, not to mention the cost: the dress, the shoes, the hair, the makeup, the limo, etc., but then leave it to family to capture the event, which I think we can all agree is a bad idea. Photos are blurry, unflattering, or left on your parent’s cell phone until the end of time. I'm a very sentimental person, so it's barbaric to me that someone wouldn't hire a professional for these special moments. Ladies know - when you look beautiful, you feel beautiful, and that's the magic stuff. You've spent all this effort to feel beautiful, why wear your dress just once?
 

5. As a photographer, you've experienced a lot of success at such a young age - what are your goals in the future for your business in photography?

Happiness is the destination and the journey. I've already found that the kinds of photography that allow me to be creative are the ones that make me the happiest. Being part of a big studio with assembly line "portraits" just won't do. Photography is an art first and a business second, and if I can continue with that motto, I can reach my dreams.