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My passion for photography was born on Christmas. I was 12 years old. And my grandparents got me my very first camera. It was a mid level point and shoot, Sony I believe. And it was my best friend.
From that moment, you couldn't catch me at a family gathering or event without my camera in my hand. From Disney World trips, Soccer Tournaments, family weddings, and more. Every opportunity, I had my camera ready to go capturing the joy I felt around me.
As an undiagnosed neurodiverse child, I always felt more comfortable behind the lens than in the midst of the action. Even today, observing and capturing the joy between families and friends is one of my favorite things to do. However, some things have fundamentally changed. I no longer hide behind the lens, but rather let the lens to become an extension of myself. While I dabbled in semi-professional photography throughout high school, college, and beyond-I never took it further than Senior photos for friends, small weddings, or family portraits for those closest to me.
I had the opportunity to go to New Orleans in the summers of 2009 and 2011 and attend the NOLA Travel Writer's workshops put on by Altovell publishing. I won the honor of the cover photo for the travel anthologies compiled by the Tween travel writers attending the workshop as well as several written pieces and photo stories as a part of the collection. The lessons learned from Denise Altobello and Jenny Velasquez, as well as the incredible instructors and experiences they provided us changed my view and approach to photography and storytelling.
I learned to not just capture what I see, but curate and become a part of the story myself. To jump in with two feet and learn to be more than a casual observer, but a storyteller. I interviewed and profiled Louis Sahuc who's work with shadows and light still inspires me as a photographer today.
Shop my books below. You'll find me credited as Reagan Johnson (My maiden name).
I continued to photograph, create, and grow my passion and knowledge for photography as a hobby. But it wasn't until April of 2021 that a compilation of pandemic-induced creativity, meeting the right mentors, and a spark of inspiration brought Meadowsweet Photo Company to life.
Since then my love for photography has turned into something even greater, a community of families who cherish one another, and value authentic photography and a fun and memorable experience for every member of the family. I have had the incredible pleasure of meeting and capturing over 50 Families since my launch in April of 2021 and I cannot wait for everything that is to come for Meadowsweet Photo Company.