Today we’d like to introduce you to Gail Vitikacs.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
While most people are dreaming, wrapped in the comfort of a deep night’s sleep, not me. It seems my creativity comes alive when the sun goes down, and my instincts begin to find the perfect shot. I began my photography journey about 18 years ago in the Virginia/Washington, DC area. During that time, I was working for an IT company in Reston, VA and enjoyed evening trips to DC and had a home studio. I had professional photographer friends that were more than generous in teaching me to move to the next level. Discovering where your passions lie is by experimenting and shooting photos of everything you can. It soon became apparent I loved taking photos of architecture and people. When I take a photo, I want to introduce the viewer to a story.
While out with my camera, I know an adventure will unfold. Occasionally I will take friends that want to learn night photography and long exposure, which is my favorite. The night will hold secrets waiting for us to find and the excitement begins. There have been some moments of comedy and trips to the ER, but when you want to capture your vision, it is a small price. There was one late night when I was with a group on top of the Lincoln Memorial and searching for a different perspective. I accidentally stepped off the Lincoln Monument on the right side holding my tripod and camera and landed about 10 feet on the ground. Also, being respectful of security will allow you to get a shot that most couldn’t. While at the White House one evening, one of the guards allowed me to climb the back fence for a better angle and he watched as I took my photo. You learn patience also as you hope that the perfect shot becomes available when the time is right. A quick reminder about safety when you are out chasing your dreams. Always be alert of your surroundings, let family know where you are going, and be careful not to put yourself in a bad situation.
My husband and I retired and moved from Potomac Falls, VA to St. Augustine about ten years ago. Since then, I have upgraded my Nikon equipment and take pleasure in making new friends and finding different locations for my photography. Two years ago, I wanted to add some spice to my portfolio and introduced “The Traveling Umbrella Lady of St. Augustine”. This has been an amazing and enjoyable venture as my models, and I visit the historic areas in St. Augustine and showcases the beauty and history of the downtown area.
There has been gratification in mentoring photographers that are serious about learning and open to new ideas. It can be overwhelming to most on editing and software programs. Occasionally I will teach them the basics in my home office. Because of the time others gave to me learning photography years ago, I want to continue to pay it forward. I always remind them to learn about their camera/equipment first or it makes learning photography complicated.
Being unique and having your own style was a learning process in the beginning. I know how much I love bold colors and how important composition is and my work reflects it. Follow your intuitions when creating your art. Learn to trust your instincts and push forward. Remember that not every photo is a winner and accept and be grateful for the one that is!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Learning photography has been a rewarding journey of passion, technology, and gratification moments. Learning how to get the answers you need for your vision is key. Share ideas and ask for help when you have a problem. I learned how to be innovative while searching for answers. Initially it was overwhelming because I wanted to be as good as my mentors, but realized it was my own challenge, and needed time to learn the basics and practice. One can never practice too much! I am grateful every day that I didn’t give up because it has been very fulfilling.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I love interacting with my clients and including them in the journey as we move forward in capturing memories. When you see your work framed in their home, it gives me joy and pride. I offer my best efforts and those that shoot with me, understand the phrase, “Just one more shot!”
There are major steps in achieving your goals for your outing with clients or just yourself. I practice them faithfully and the benefits have been positive. (1) Always have your gear ready (batteries charged, lens cleaned memory cards in place.) (2) If needed, go visit the site before you meet clients. (3) Always be early! (4) Learn how to direct clients and have fun. (5) Enjoy the editing process. It allows you to learn if you made any errors while shooting, and your creativity will soar! (6) Deliver with pride and know you gave the client the best you could.
These are the rules of engagement, and my friends and clients are on board. It allows them to relax and know I am doing my best for their photos. Having fun during a session is an absolute in my book!
I love spontaneous outings and meeting people. There have been many times I will ask a stranger if I can take their photo and sent it to them. I believe in spreading the cheer and happiness!
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is when you achieve your goal. They could be small or large but not giving up offers the supreme reward. You learn from each positive success you have and another will grow. When you learn from your mistakes, that is a benefit.
As long as I find enjoyment in sharing my photography with others, then my hard work has its rewards. You can’t always measure success totally in monetary values when you give from the heart.
I recently opened my home studio to allow clients to be creative with unique backdrops and for pet photography. I am excited to offer this as an alternate for special requests.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gailsgallery.smugmug.com
- Instagram: gailvitikacs
- Facebook: Gail McCormick Vitikacs
