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Heather Morrow: Conveying Emotion and Art through Photography

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Successful storytelling requires an amazing craftsman who weaves together words or images that compel and engage the reader. Conveying those messages, whether they are written or visual, means the creator has spent time understanding the subject and then translating it into the medium of choice. When it comes to photography, Heather Morrow prides herself on digging deep to uncover that story, parlaying it into beautiful, photographic works of art.

After an impressive career of 13 years in the photography business, many as the lead photographer for HERLIFE Magazine, Heather has built a stellar client list that includes a who’s who of the community and business world of KC. Whether she’s shooting a product, models or head shots of executives, she’s able to envision the final outcome from a client’s perspective, achieving the results they desire.

Capturing Character
“It’s fun for me because I’m such a people person. I’m very curious and inquisitive, and I like to know what makes people tick. I want to get to know their story and that helps me bring out the personalities of the people I photograph,” commented Heather. “In addition, you have to be able to go with the flow because things can go awry. You have to be flexible and make decisions on the fly as you adapt to and overcome anything that comes your way.”

While her business was founded on capturing portraits of her clients, she’s a very accomplished commercial photographer as well, working with both large and small companies, and governmental agencies in the community. Heather believes she carries a unique angle to every job. “The commercial photography world is predominantly male, but I don’t see my gender as a disadvantage,” noted Heather. “As a woman, I make a lot of purchases, and I easily identify with brands that are targeted toward women. I’m able to fully grasp the message behind a brand and, as a woman, I also understand how the consumer will relate to that message. That gives me an edge, and my clients see value in the fact that I can tell their story in the most effective, artistic way.”

Grounded in Experience
No matter if it’s commercial photography or editorial work, such as the covers of HERLIFE Magazine, Heather’s ability to work with others, whether it’s the client, the staff or the models, and to connect them to the final outcome is key to her success. In addition, she brings an impressive skill set that’s been garnered as she worked her way through the business.

“I have the benefit of having been in the roles of producer, on-set art director, wardrobe stylist and photographer. This experience gives me a greater appreciation for how large-scale shoots come together and for the people who have those jobs,” she remarked. “It’s also taught me how to problem solve during a shoot. Maybe the light isn’t quite right or maybe the weather isn’t cooperating. With my experience, I have a backup plan ready to go. It’s critical that I’m prepared, flexible and willing to work through issues.”

Relationship and Trust
Lauren Shreve, creative director, Silpada Designs, an international jewelry company based in Lenexa, Kansas, has worked with Heather through the years. Heather’s work was featured in its lifestyle photos that included models sporting the jewelry.

“Heather started working for us on our 2014 holiday catalog and has shot our lifestyle images since then,”recalled Lauren. “She didn’t just show up and take the photos; she brought creative ideas to the table and was a master at directing the models. I’ve been at Silpada for ten years, working with dozens of photogs, and I’ve never worked with someone who’s so fun. She doesn’t get frustrated and her spirit is warm and welcoming.”

Heather’s fine workmanship is echoed by Karrie Kaneda, owner of Happy Habitat, who designs and markets beautiful throws and blankets created in the USA from recycled cotton. Karrie relies on Heather’s remarkable skills to showcase her fine merchandise and to artistically convey the message behind her brand.

“Heather takes product and lifestyle shots of my throws and blankets, which I use on my website and social media,” noted Karrie. “Good quality photos go a long way for me because that’s what helps me sell my product. Her attention to detail is amazing, and she’ll spot things that most would miss. People ask me who does my photography because the shots are so bright and clear. Heather’s amazing.”

If your next project requires a photographer who thinks outside the box and who understands how to craft a beautiful photo that conveys a distinct message, Heather’s the one. Her creativity is second to none; she knows how to invoke emotions that sell a mood and lifestyle, all the while ensuring the process is enjoyable for all.

“I work really hard but I have a lot of fun doing my job.” she shared. “It’s important to me that my clients have a good time, enjoy working with me, and, most of all, receive phenomenal photos that tell their story.” HLM

To learn more about Heather’s work, visit her website at heathermorrowphoto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/heathermorrowphoto and Instagram at @heathermorrowphoto.