Featured Photographer {Rikki Hatfield}

If you’ve spent any time on this blog, you know my love for I Heart Faces, a photography forum geared toward women. This is one place where I picked up soooo many hints and tips, and made some amazing connections with other women like myself. Rikki Hatfield is one of those amazing women I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know!! Not only is her work awesome, so is she! Swing by her site and tell her “Hello!”

TELL US A LITTLE SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up in Arizona where I ran track; played softball, loved to read books any chance I got. After graduating from Arizona State University, I began my teaching career that provided a unique opportunity teach overseas in Cyprus. While teaching in Cyprus, I met my wonderful husband who was stationed at the American Embassy. We now have two wonderful children whom I adore! I put teaching on hold to spend more time with my little ones as we all know how fast they grow!

I have adjusted to the whirlwind life along with many other military spouses and embraced the memorable moments.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

We are currently stationed in Virginia, but we will be moving to Texas this summer.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU AS AN ARTIST?

I am always inspired by those who are never afraid to try even when it might be tough. Photography was a challenge for me as I have read a multitude of books and articles. Technology has granted me an opportunity to see and learn new ideas that inspire me to step outside of the box and try new techniques thus, creating better photographs.

WHAT TYPE OF PHOTOGRAPHY DO YOU LIKE TO CREATE?

This is very question! I prefer natural light photography as this allows me to be more creative with portraits.

WHEN DID YOU DEVELOP A PASSION FOR PHOTOGRAPHY?

Like many new moms, I wanted to capture every moment of my children through pictures and endless videos. Of course, we can all agree that one must move beyond the “auto setting” on our cameras if we truly want to capture those pictures that make others say, “WOW”. After we moved to Okinawa in 2009, I really started to take photography more seriously in that I started studying the technical side that enables other to create those stunning images.

WHAT'S IN YOUR CAMERA BAG?