Meet Erin : Lifestyle Photographer
Meet Erin- rockstar mama & owner of Erin Schedler Photography! Erin is a member of the Om Mama Collective – members get exclusive deals & discounts when working with her! Find out more at members.ommamaco.com!
Your Story – a little “About You” – How long have you lived in the Seattle area? Where are you from/why did you move here? What do you do for a living? Have you always done this?
Born and raised in Seattle, I picked up my Dad’s film camera at 15 and have been shooting ever since. My “plan” was an MBA and career in sales in marketing, which I did for 10 years, all the while keeping photography a side hustle. When my first child was born, I couldn’t ignore my calling anymore. I quit my job as a director at a sustainability start-up and took the business full time. Best decision I’ve ever made! I still love marketing, running a business, and talk about sustainability often on Instagram. It’s wonderful to have found a role that combines all my passions.
Why did you decide to pursue this career?
It marries my love of people, business, and photography, and allows me more time with my children. Being my own boss isn’t too bad either!
How would you describe your photography “style”?
Candid and classic. While I’ve slipped into trends with edits and posing here and there, they never stick. I like photos that will stand the test of time, aren’t overly processed but show a genuine and real connection.
When you get a quiet moment, what do you like to do the most?
While I’m trying to read more books, if I get 10 minutes I often fall into bed and scroll through artists and ideas on Instagram. Zoning out is necessary sometimes! Naps and gardening are stress-relievers too.
What helps you feel strong and/or beautiful?
Working out. If I’m feeling down about my body, going to a vinyasa yoga class or hitting the running trail changes my outlook dramatically. I feel strong and positive afterward.
How do you practice self-care?
Limits! While healthy eating, exercise, and rest are of course important, for me it all starts with saying no. Avoiding the tendency toward unrealistic expectations and perfectionism keeps me from overload, and the compromised self-care that comes with them.
What does living a fulfilled and happy life mean to you?
It’s cheesy, but coming from a place of gratitude. When I stop I realize what I have–my family, my career, my home, community, and all the incredible experiences I’ve had…I’m rich and blessed beyond measure. Nothing is lacking.
Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you?
“Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist” – Pablo Picasso
If you could tell your twenty-year-old self one thing, what would it be?
“That people who hurt you, the opportunities you think were missed, the challenges that seem like immovable mountains, are opportunities to see yourself in a new way. Change the beliefs your identity rests on and you’ll change everything. Hint: they’ll be rooted in self-love, compassion, and embracing the imperfect.”
How do you balance being an entrepreneur & a mom?
Truth is, I don’t! Balance is hard, and having it all is a myth. But setting limits, saying no, and being more realistic about expectations of self are new skills I’ve acquired, and they are getting me closer to the balance ideal.
What is one thing you were told you would need and didn’t as a mama? Or the best piece of advice you received before becoming a mama?
Best piece of advice was “everything is a phase, and will end”. Newborns are so sweet and snuggly, but demand so much of you physically. Toddlers have a ton of personality and say the cutest things, but challenge rules and emotions run high. Every phase has had high highs and low lows, but they’re all terminal. I try to embrace the sweet parts of each.
What do you think the world needs more of?
Empathy. Cruelty almost always stems from a lack of understanding about another person or culture.
What is your favorite local motherhood/parent resource?
PEPS for new moms! That group saved me.
What is your favorite local activity to do with your kiddos?
Anything in nature! We hike Discovery Park, Snoqualmie Pass, and get out on the Sound and Lake Washington whenever we can.
What makes you most excited about Om Mama?
I think our generation has lost the village, and the tight-knit communities our grandmother’s had. Having a go-to group of women that are sharing information, support, and fun seems to be exactly what moms need right now.
Where can readers find you?
Website: https://erinschedlerphoto.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schedlerphoto
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