Family gatherings, proposals, prom photos and weddings are all significant moments in life — events people often want professionally captured. One up-and-coming photographer, Rosie Nielson, is working to make a name for herself in Utah’s competitive photography industry.
Nielson, a sophomore at BYU, launched her photography business this past fall after spending three years as an assistant second shooter for her cousin’s wedding photography company.
“I’ve loved photography since I was a little girl, so I think it’s always been a natural fit for me,” Nielson said.
With its stunning landscapes and large number of families, Utah is an ideal place for photographers. In fact, the state has one of the highest numbers of photographers per capita in the country. Because of that, new photographers often struggle to stand out.
“Photography is something where it’s so easy to compare your work to others,” Nielson said. “It can be really discouraging to look around and think, ‘How am I ever going to get there?’”
A quick online search for photographers in Utah brings up hundreds of results, illustrating the competitive nature of the industry. While Nielson has completed a few paid shoots, most of her work so far has consisted of pro bono family sessions, missionary photos, and senior portraits.
“Right now, my biggest focus is building my portfolio — revamping my work, reaching out to people, and growing a following,” she said.
More than anything, Nielson hopes to be the go-to photographer people trust to capture life’s biggest moments.
“Honestly, what I love about Rosie is that she gets me out of my comfort zone,” Amy Castleton, Nielson’s cousin and model said. “You can just tell she loves it.”
For Nielson, success means reaching the point where people see her work and immediately know they want her behind the camera.
“I’m working on my portfolio until the day people see my photos and say, ‘This is who I want,’” Nielson said.
In addition to photography, Nielson is studying fine arts at BYU and hopes to have her work showcased professionally one day. For now, she continues to refine her craft, one photoshoot at a time.