“My passion is my work”

Carmen Adams of Fresh Photography talks about loving her business, lessons learned and her interest in the written word

1 of 4Carmen Adams loves bringing a fresh perspective as she photographs her clients. — Carmen Adams photo

2 of 4Adams captures baby photos that can be cherished forever. — Carmen Adams photo

3 of 4This photo showcases Adams talent with wedding photography — Carmen Adams photo

4 of 4 — Logo courtesy Carmen Adams

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Carmen Adams, owner of Fresh Photography in Rossland, B.C., loves capturing special moments for her clients with her unique eye for beauty. Adams also keeps a blog on her adventures in photography and curates for Kootenay Wedding. Here she talks to Kootenay Business about past jobs, her love of writing and the woman behind the business.

What do you like most about your job?

I appreciate honing in on all that is beautiful in the world, in each other and, most recently, in myself. I also like the connection to interesting people. Connecting with like-minded individuals, sharing an appreciation for photography and design has been really life-affirming.

What is your number 1 passion outside work?

My passion is my work, my work is my passion—they're truly one and the same, but I also love writing. There is something about documenting one's life and personal truths, whether that be writing or photography, that makes it seem real. I also have a terrible memory and need the practical reminder that something did, in fact, occur and I, in fact, was there. Sad, I know.

What was your first job and what was one thing you learned from it?

I had a paper route when I was too young to carry all the newspapers in my bag at one time. I learned that hard work yields results. I may have earned little, but I earned consistently and saw those totals amount to something larger. Later, progressing onto the larger newspaper, bill collections were a part of my job description. It was particularly challenging going into the old folks' home. I would like to think that I learned more about human connection at this time, but I secretly dreamed about breaking out the old man banging on the front door. I've never liked the idea of such limitations placed on people.

What’s something that people might be surprised to learn about you?

I was an English teacher to mostly inner-city youth. I thought I could change the world and, once again, set some people free, if only in their minds. I have since harnessed my energies into changing myself or, more acurately, letting myself be changed.

Why did you choose to get into this business?

I was on maternity leave from teaching on the coast when we moved our little family to Rossland. I was looking for a means to be my creative self and be present with my kids. I had been photographing summer weddings for years and thought I would see where it would lead. At first it was part time, but it has grown, alongside my children, into a more full-time opportunity.

What advice would you give to someone going into business?

Focus on being the kind of person you want to be, in and outside of your business, and let that guide your business model. I try not to compete with others but to improve myself and my skills. I find that the right clients are being drawn to my business as a result.