Photographer Spotlight: Elisa Cogotti

Elisa Cogotti Photographer Spotlight

Today we are talking with Elisa Cogotti, a very talented newborn photographer, about her work, background and inspiration.

1. Where did your inspiration for photography begin?

I've been an artist since I was very young and have always loved paint, music, colors and forms. But my passion was always photography. I began my career as a child photographer after my son was born. I studied by taking workshops with Ana Brandt (California) and by following Kelly Brown on Creative Live.

2. How would you describe your photography style?

I feel my style is very eclectic: I observe, ask a lot of questions, and draw inspiration from my subject's personality. After that, my own creativity will move me towards bright colors or alternatively more organic, simple and pure sets. I try to shoot portraits that reflect the personality and disposition of my subject.

3. Did you study photography in school or are you self taught?

At first I was self taught. Then I studied photography at a school in my city (Cagliari, Italy). Over the past several years I have continued to focus my training with targeted workshops (pregnancy, newborn, children, editing, etc).

4. Do brand/model camera do you shoot, and what is your favorite lens?

I shoot with my Nikon D750. My favorite lens is 105 macro, perfect for both details and portraits!

5. Do you have any tips for photographers on how to find the light?

Well, when I first started, I couldn't afford a photography studio, so I primarily shot on location in my clients' homes. I would ask them: is there a window in your house? If there was a window then you know there will be light. I would choose the right time of day for the optimal window lighting and plan accordingly.

6. What is your favorite subject to photograph?

Definitely newborns! They are my joy and passion.

7. What's a good lesson you have learned this year in photography or in your business?

Marketing is quite important. You should constantly invest in this. Collaborations with other photographers is also very important and will help you grow as an artist and inspire you to new projects.

8. If you could encourage a new photographer in one area, what would it be?

Just do what you love!  Whatever it is you love to photograph: go with it, study hard, try and if you fail don't give up - rise up and try harder! DARE is my one of my favorite words. Never ever give up, you can be anything you want to be, because passion can move the world!

9. What do you love most about being a photographer?

I love to create something new and different, to surprise myself and surprise my clients. I simply adore being a "memory creator" and I think it's a huge responsibility. I'm so honored when my clients choose me to be their photographer.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would love to travel and teach other photographers what I know and shoot around the world. Traveling is in my nature, I'm a free and curious spirit.

11. Which Pretty Photoshop Actions are your favorites?

I simply adore Pretty Actions! I especially love the Luxe Newborn Workflow and PURE Color Workflow Photoshop Action collections. My workflow became so much quicker and professional that I can't work without these actions!

The Luxe Newborn Workflow is a completely perfect action set for newborn photographers - it has EVERYTHING you need for editing newborns.

I can easily correct newborn skin with “Kiss Away the Red” or “Purple Be Gone” actions. I am able make newborn skin so smooth and pure with the “Smooth as a Baby's Bottom” action (I use it for face, skin and legs when the skin looks a bit dry).

You can also use the actions in the set to correct newborn blankets and backdrops - easily change blanket color, merge fabric, walls or smooth your beanbag backdrop by using the “Blanket Fill”, “Blanket to Wall Transition” and “Blanket Fade” actions.

These actions are simply amazing and I always recommend that my students purchase them to make their images more professional and save time. No more struggling with baby skin or fabric imperfection: you will never regret purchasing from Pretty Actions!

Do you have any questions or comments for Elisa Cogotti?  Leave us a comment below - we would LOVE to hear from you!  And PLEASE SHARE our photographer spotlight using the social sharing buttons - we really appreciate it!