Today we’d like to introduce you to Danny Woodard.
Hi Danny, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
It’s been a long interesting road, but it started in high school. I took my first photography course and was hooked. Back then, we worked with film and learned to work in dark rooms. It was just a great experience, overall. I, actually, didn’t even get my first camera until about 10 years later. The plan from high school (class of 04), was to join the military and use the money from the GI Bill to put me through school. like any adventure, there were many detours but I’m thankful that I made it back to my path.
When I did get my camera, I started out working in nightclubs. A friend of mine very politely asked me to take some photos of her Dj-ing one night. I agreed to… give it a shot. That was an interesting place to start since I had to learn really fast to take photos in the dark. When I moved to Orlando, A friend of mine let me know that there was an Event company looking for a new photographer to expand photographic coverage around Orlando. At this time, I had just gotten a job as a photo pass at Disney as well, so I felt like I was on a roll at this point. After one event on Orange Ave, I stopped in a bar close by. I had never actually seen the nightlife and thought I would check some things out while I was in town. I ended up getting a job as a photographer there as well.
Eventually, I would meet my wife, and explore other avenues that wouldn’t have me out all night.
I learned what things I love to photograph and pursued those as the main focus in my business. I have even been presented with the opportunity to teach photography and will soon be holding workshops at Celebration Arts Academy!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
You have to be a problem solver in this line of work. I won’t say that it’s been smooth, but I will say that I’ve learned to navigate the terrain. There has been a lot of hours put into learning to do what I do. I haven’t really had any formal training and just kind of picked up tips and tricks here and there when I could. That is probably the hardest part… the never-ending process of learning. There are plenty of challenges, but I would say that getting over “imposter syndrome” (feeling like you aren’t good enough) is probably one of the most difficult things, especially when there are so many other great photographers in our community. it’s really easy to get caught up and compare yourself to those around you. The thing to keep in mind is that we ARE a community and that those around you have always been willing to help.
All of that aside… having to wear all of the hats in the business is tough and can really take a toll on your mental health which is why it is SUPER IMPORTANT TO PUT YOURSELF ON YOUR OWN SCHEDULE. I can’t say that enough.
It’s really easy to capsize while trying to figure out when you are supposed to be where.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I feel like its super common to hear ” I take photos of everything.” while that is true, I currently have a big focus on Family sessions and more recently Boudoir. Boudoir makes me feel like a damn super hero. I have only been doing boudoir for a year so far and i am always so flattered to have my clients choose me to tell their story. It’s usually a story of redemption. whether you are recovering from physical or emotional trauma, or you are at the end of a weight loss journey… or just want to celebrate yourself… I will make you are seen at the comeback kid every time! Several time during our sessions, I can get you to say that’s not me!”
On the opposite side of the coin, i love working with children. Children have so much personality when we aren’t watching. so, I always try and capture those moments when they are their most genuine selves… so what if that’s on a sugar rush, running through a splash pad…
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I am lucky to have the support from those around me. The photography community in Orlando is pretty incredible. I have my friends and family and wife in my corner always pushing me forward.
Contact Info:
- Email: danny@rightanglefoto.com
- Website: www.rightangleboudoir.com | www.rightanglefoto.com
- Instagram: www.instargram.com/rightangleboudoir | www.instagram.com/rightangleboudoir
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightangle407 | https://www.facebook.com/90boudoir
