Hi guys! Bekah here! Who’s eager to meet another amazing photographer in the 417 area?? I love having the opportunity to share 417 photographer’s stories and highlight their individual styles in this series! I think it is so cool to see the unique perspective people in the exact same field have!

Today I introduce you to the lovely Tamara Thomas of Thomas Creative! Let’s get to know her below!

Hi, all! I'm Tamara Thomas!

Along with my husband Caleb, I own Thomas Creative. I am a hobbyist turned full-time photographer. Last year, Caleb jumped on board and we added videography to our services. It's been the most fun doing this together. We call wedding days our day dates. We truly enjoy doing it as a team. It's so rewarding and fulfilling. We enjoy all types of photography. Anywhere from product shooting, family sessions, seniors, weddings, to making story videos for small businesses. If there is a photo/video need, we're down to fill it. We embrace it all! We have two beautiful babies. You can catch us location scouting, hanging at our church or enjoying popcorn and a movie when we're not shooting weddings or sessions.

How long have you been a photographer?

I got my first camera in 2012, but I'd say that photography has been my career since 2017.

How would you describe your photography style?

True-to-color portrait photography/video. We love bright, vibrant colors and try to keep our photos and videos as nice and realistic as your eye sees them in person.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a photographer to you?

Relationships. Oh my goodness, my heart SWELLS when I get to celebrate different seasons with my clients. Brides becoming Mamas, watching kids go from babies to toddlers, etc. My clients become friends. I get to be part of the best time of their lives. I just love it.

What is the best thing about your clients?

I have some very loyal clients. There are a lot of amazing photographers in the 417 and I'm honored that they stick with me year after year.

What is your favorite thing to photograph?

This is a tough one because I truly love it all. I'd say I am best at family sessions. I have the gift of making buds with kids. Hearing clients say, "They never smile like that for photos." is the best pat on this photographers back.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

FINALLY GOING FOR IT. For so long I would give away free sessions, turn weddings down, etc. because I wasn't confident in my skills. With a nice shove from my family, hubby and friends, I just decided to embrace this gift that God has given me and just do it. It's been so rewarding and I cannot believe that I have a full schedule of sessions year round. It's a true dream come true.

If you could give one piece of advice to yourself when you first started as a photographer, what would it be?

Stop being so hypercritical of your work and charge what you're worth. I would also say, don't be intimidated that there are a lot of photographers. Be true to who you are, continually work on your craft and the clients will come.

If you could give one piece of advice to your clients what would it be?

Celebrate your life, y'all. PRINT YOUR PHOTOS. You invest in these images, they belong ALL over your walls.

Do you have any photography influences?

Seriously, y'all. You're KILLING IT. I love to show love to my fellow photogs. There are so many awesome photographers that I follow here in Springfield. If we're talking big influences, I love Jo Johnson. She's based out of Arkansas. We actually went to high school together and watching her flourish into an incredible photographer/mentor/business lady has been so inspiring.

What is your favorite piece of gear? Dream piece of gear?

I just went mirror-less with the Canon RP and I am LOVING IT. Lighter/smaller camera body has been a game changer on wedding days. If Caleb was answering this, he would be able to give you a full run down of all of the gear he would love to buy. He's a "gear nerd". I just try to learn the ins and outs of what I have.

What are some fun facts people may not know about you?

In the 7th grade, I placed second in city for wrestling. I didn't even like wrestling. I just wanted to prove some boys wrong. I am still in the business of proving people who think I can't do something wrong.

What would your ultimate, dream photo shoot be?

I would love to shoot for a kids clothing line with my daughter as one of the models. She's stinkin' cute and since she was born she's been my practice buddy. Watching that 4-year-old spunk come out in front of the camera is so fun.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I can totally get lost in the Instagram scroll.

What was your favorite part about using Lightbox?

I love it all. Climate control with nice natural lighting is so awesome. I don't have to worry about rescheduling due to weather. Can we talk about the staff? You guys are top notch!

How would you like to use the studios at Lightbox in the future?

I love mini sessions at Lightbox. Anytime Lightbox partners with The Vintage Rental Co for mini sessions, I'm definitely promoting it to my clients. I love them.