We had the good fortune of connecting with Elise Caldwell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elise, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One aspect of the photography industry that outsiders might not realize is the significant cost of professional camera equipment. Beyond the camera body itself, lenses, lighting equipment, tripods, memory cards, and other accessories can quickly add up to a substantial investment. High-quality lenses, in particular, can often cost as much as, if not more than, the camera body. Furthermore, the need for backups and redundancy in equipment adds another layer of expense. Thus, staying current with the latest technology often requires a substantial financial commitment, which can be a surprise to those outside the industry.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Lessons learned often include the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the value of constructive criticism. Sharing one’s story and brand often involves showcasing a unique point of view, dedication to the craft, and an ongoing commitment to evolving and improving. What sets me apart is often their ability to communicate through imagery, evoke emotion, and create a distinct visual language that resonates with their audience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Day 1:
– Start with a visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a must-see for racing enthusiasts.
– Enjoy a lunch at 7th Street Public Market, offering a variety of local food vendors.
– Spend the afternoon exploring the Mint Museum Uptown, showcasing a diverse collection of art.

Day 2:
– Head to Freedom Park for a relaxing morning stroll or picnic.
– Grab lunch at Haberdish for some delicious Southern cuisine.
– Explore the NoDa (North Davidson) Arts District, known for its vibrant arts scene and unique galleries.

Day 3:
– Visit the U.S. National Whitewater Center for outdoor activities like rafting, ziplining, and hiking.
– Have dinner at The Fig Tree Restaurant, known for its upscale American cuisine.

Day 4:
– Take a day trip to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, about 2 hours away – explore the stunning mansion and gardens.
– Enjoy dinner at the Asheville food scene, perhaps at Curate for some Spanish tapas.

Day 5:
– Spend the day at Carowinds amusement park for some thrilling rides and entertainment.
– Have a casual dinner and drinks at South End, known for its breweries and trendy eateries.

Day 6:
– Visit the Billy Graham Library for a unique and historical experience.
– Enjoy lunch at Midwood Smokehouse for some classic BBQ.
– Explore the SouthPark area for some upscale shopping and dining.

Day 7:
– Take a walking tour in the historic Fourth Ward neighborhood.
– End the trip with a dinner cruise on Lake Norman, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A special shoutout to Vee, whose guidance, support, and creative inspiration have been instrumental in shaping my career as a photographer. Vee’s contribution in building my portfolio and connecting me with new clients has been invaluable. Their keen eye and unwavering encouragement have not only elevated my work but also fueled my passion for photography. Thank you, Vee, for being an exceptional source of motivation and for being an integral part of my success story.

Website: www.elisecaldwellphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisecaldwellphotography?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Linkedin: Elise Caldwell

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elisecaldwellphotography?mibextid=2JQ9oc

Yelp: ELISECALDWELLPHOTOGRAPHY

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@WATCHE_?si=qAOkY1oo4z5N1Ijy

Image Credits
Photos by Elise Caldwell

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.