Photographer - Mara

Coffee Shop - Hazel Perk Coffee

City - Hazel Park

Date - April 19, 2023

Q - What camera did you use for Cameras and Coffee?

A. - I used my Nikon d750 + the Lensbaby Optic Swap Composer Pro II with the Edge 50.

Q. How long have you been taking photos?

A. The better part of my life. I started taking photography seriously at fifteen years old, so we’re coming up on twenty years this year.

Q. Why did you start photography?

A . I was in a desperate search for what would make me feel enough of a spark that I would want to do it for the rest of my life. My brother is a musician and he knew what he wanted at eight - he stood in front of a band and pointed to the guitar player and said he wanted to be them. At fifteen, I felt a bit like I was behind the times in comparison. I tried all sorts of things - writing, poetry, playing the violin. When I finally was able to zero in on photography, it felt like coming home.

Q. What motivates you when it comes to photography?

A. I’m always looking for ways to communicate and find commonality with others. Visual communication is an equalizer and a conversation starter - everyone wants to be able to be heard and understood. I often use my work as a way to propel larger questions about personal identity forward.

Q. Describe your photography style.

A. Experimental ideas and techniques through a poetic lens

Q. Explain your Instagram name. 

A. It’s just my name before getting married

Q. What are your photo goals for the next year?

A. I have a few big things going on! First, I am nearly completed with the book for The Untended Garden, a project that I’ve been working on for the past three years. I’ve shown the work all over the world, but I want to bring it home to have a show here in Detroit to launch the book when everything is all buttoned up. Additionally, I and my friend Raymar are also currently in the process of putting together an exciting event for photographers + filmmakers in the next year - stay tuned, more info on this is coming soon!