A Note from the Artist
To dive into the heart of my story...
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Growing up, art was my safe haven. As a kid with OCD, my brain often felt a little too demanding, orderly, and at times overwhelming. Studio art was where it all began for me; with it I felt I could just run wild. There were no rules and no “right” answers, which deeply resonated with me and set the stage for my lifelong obsession with creativity.
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This spark only grew when I stepped into the world of theater and dance, where I was constantly surrounded by incredible performers. Their willingness to express themselves with so much vulnerability really captivated and inspired me. The energy and drama made me feel like I had stumbled into a universe where a mix of emotion and atmosphere spoke louder than words, and everyone could understand it. Seeing Phantom of the Opera at 15 especially transformed the way I perceived art, making me realize that storytelling and performance weren’t just cool or interesting—they were magical, diving into the deepest parts of a moment to surface the overlooked pieces of reality. This taught me that art, much like photography, doesn’t have to be practical or predictable. It’s a glorious mix of the abstract, the emotional, the deep but also the lighthearted. and sometimes the funky and inexplicable,
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Now, after nearly 10 years of my own photographic exploration, I’ve held onto this childlike sense of wonder and awe, that feeling of seeing everything with fresh eyes, like there’s always something new and beautiful around the corner. The world may pressure us to rush into “growing up,” but I made it a personal mission to savor life’s magic instead and keep a sense of humor. I carry this philosophy into my photography, placing my whole heart into each project as if it’s a new adventure. Every frame is a chance to see the world wide-eyed, to capture the little details that make each story extraordinary.
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I pour all of these experiences and epiphanies into Amanda Ruth Photos, which I describe as the intersect between authenticity and imagination. This labor of love is more than just a photography business; it’s my heart, my faith, my fascination with God and Creation, all wrapped up into something I can now give to you to have and to keep. Each photo I take is more than a moment; it’s a story, a piece of soul, a memory you’ll treasure. I am beyond excited to meet you, and I can’t wait to help tell your story. Because for me, photography isn’t just a job—it’s my passion, my calling, and it means the world to me.
Sincerely,
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Adventure and Complete Immersion
Adventurous is perhaps the best descriptor of my photography ethos. I thrive on exploration and encourage you as a client to immerse yourself in a new environment, whether it's hiking through a lush forest, exploring a scenic overlook, even running through a grand cityscape coffee-shop-hopping with your love.
My bright green Mini Cooper "Mylo" serves as the trusty steed for my adventures, where spontaneity is embraced and getting a little messy is part of the fun!! I am all for getting a little dirt on your dress, capturing the breeze in your hair, and getting your feet wet in the river. My deep love for adventure and extensive knowledge of local landscapes allows me to lead you into breathtaking settings, whether its a scenic overlook or the cutest corner of a local cafe. My goal is to help you feel fully present and engaged with your surroundings during your session, or even on your wedding day! To me, exploration and immersion are not only important tangible aspects of my craft for you as a client to experience, but emotional ones as well that I personally take on in every project. At your session, I'll likely ask you the "silly" questions, like your favorite color or your favorite season. On your wedding day and even through the planning process, I hope to dance with you, cheer for you, hold your hand through the process and uncover what means the most to you. These are the things that shape your personality and your day, and I pay very close attention to them because I feel that to give you the best gallery, I must first understand and care about who you are. These are the driving forces behind what I do, and the parts of my career that truly make my heart full!
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Education and Experience
If you're looking for a photographer you can trust, you've come to the right place. As of 2023, I have graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with a B.F.A. concentration in Photography and Videography. With this in cohorts with nearly 10 years of experience, you can not only rest assured that you have a photographer whose heart is in the project, but also who has the proper training and determination to back it up.