Every person has a story to tell of how they capture the magic they see before them with their photography. We are celebrating this with our Instagram PixStorytellers. Each week, a new photographer will join us on Instagram sharing their ideas, tips, and tricks for getting the best shot. This week we introduce you to Autumn Schrock also known as @autpops on Instagram who specializes in fine art landscape photography and yoga photography.
Peter Parker, or Spider-man, was actually my first photographic inspiration. You could say I connected with him, his upbringing, and his passion to do good in the world. I was drawn to photography’s ability to evoke emotion and to say so much all in a single moment of time. To be honest, I’m still fascinated by how much we can feel from a photograph, and I strive to bring that feeling into my work.
If you look inside my Wandrd camera bag, you’ll find my Sony a7R II body with the 24-70 f/2.8 GM and 70-200 f/2.8 GM lenses. Along with my camera and lenses, I carry a B+W circular polarizer, B+W neutral-density filter, Peak Design shoulder strap, Vanguard VEO 2 265CB tripod, Think Tank rain cover, an SD case, Anker power bank, and extra batteries.
Shooting in new locations is so invigorating. The best part about it for me is knowing that I’m experiencing something new. It’s not just about the camera or the scenery; to me, it’s about the experience. Walking someplace I’ve never walked, seeing things I’ve never seen before—it inspires creativity.
Honestly, as a woman, I deal with many challenges as a photographer. This industry is predominantly male and often women aren’t taken seriously. I’ve unfortunately faced countless instances of being ignored or brushed off just because I am a woman, even though I have a degree in photography and have spent almost 12 years shooting. I’ve learned to not let it affect me and to keep working as hard as I can to do what I love.
It’s nice to constantly be learning every day with my surrounding, but I would have to say that I’m always looking for new things to learn in order to push my career a step further. Currently, I’m learning more about underwater photography. It’s something that I’ve wanted to do for years, but for some reason haven’t pursued. The water is where my heart lies, and I cannot wait to learn as much as possible about shooting in a new environment.