Interview with Lifestyle Photographer, Bunn Salarzon

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January 29, 2010 by Cecilia D. | Comments (5)

Bunn Salarzon is a lifestyle photographer—with emphasis on “life.” She puts her heart into photography, and through each photo she takes, she brings out the most captivating moments, emotions, and personalities of each of her subjects. One thing is to be a photographer with great technique, but another is to be able to mesh technical skill with understanding and empathy for the subject, the setting, and the mood. I remember looking at a photoset of a newborn baby and her mother, and nearly whole-heartedly cried because it was so precious, so personal. That’s the kind of photographer I want at all the most important milestones in my life—graduation, marriage, family … It is quite possible that when I’m old and forgetful, Bunn’s photos may be the only things that will refresh my memory and bring warmth into my heart. Bunn is also downright funny and totally casual and cool, so photographing with her allows you to be yourself.

Bunn courageously booted corporate worklife to the curb and embraced her own life and her own dreams. She is an inspiration to all aspiring female entrepreneurs out there!

When and how did you become interested in photography?
Photography was an elective that I took during my Sophomore year in high school. That was (ahem!) 18 years ago. The only requirement was to have a 35mm SLR camera, which is what I found collecting dust in my uncle and aunt’s room. Nope, I never got their permission. I just jacked it!

Photography went from a favorite hobby to a full-time professional job. What compelled you to quit your corporate job and start your own business?
It didn’t take much when I realized that all I think about is photography. I looked forward to every session, even when it was only a practice session. I was anxious to see how much and fast I could grow by being curious. Of course, dealing with unhappy people in the corporate world made it so easy to analyze my own life to see what makes me happy. I didn’t want to be like those unhappy people, working for years and never following their dreams and being miserable about it. Therefore, I claimed my destiny and quit on the fly without any notice. Yeah, without a backup plan or savings account. I went for it … I followed my dreams. Although, I’m not even halfway there yet I’m more happy than I’ve ever been.

Did you imagine yourself to have become this successful and this busy?
I always have small goals for myself, small steps to reach those bigger goals. I sometimes feel like I haven’t made any progress until I look back on the two years then I realize just how far I’ve really come. Even in small steps there is success!

What do you love most about having your own business, besides being your own boss? Don’t be afraid to tell people about working in your pajamas … ha!
Actually, I can brag about working in my pajamas all day, every day! Besides not having a boss or alarm clock to stress about, having my own business means freedom. Not only am I able to do what I love, but I get to spend my days with the people I love. The corporate world forced me to spend 80% of my day with miserable people, pretending to be happy. I had only 20% of my day left for my friends and family, who most of the time would get the miserable side of me after a stressful day at work. That wasn’t fair. I had to make changes, and I’m so happy that I did!

What are some of the challenges you face?
The recession is not only affecting the average working class person, but mostly small business owners like myself. I definitely chose a difficult time in our economy to start my own business. But, if I’m going to be working hard at anything then it’s going to be something that I truly love – even if it means a huge pay cut and no health insurance. There is no greater reward than working for yourself.

Honestly—how much time do you spend editing photos?
It really depends on how many images per session or wedding, and how many orders I’ve got all at once. Because I’m such a perfectionist, it can mean four to six hours on one session. Of course, that time gets broken up in days not straight hours or my back and neck would never forgive me. And, I’m older now. Ouch!

What do you do to stay motivated, happy, and maybe even stress-free?
When I feel like I’m becoming a slave to my own work, I take a break from the computer. It can mean avoiding it all for a few days so I can refresh my mind and my eyes. I’ll hang out with my friends and family, reminding myself why I do what I do. Again, being my own boss has allowed me something no other boss can ever give me: Freedom. I can do whatever I want when I want. No rules.

What’s your favorite subject to shoot?
Contrary to popular beliefs, I have no romantic bone in my body. But, I do love to shoot engagements! This is when I have personal time with my couples—chat with them on how they met and who proposed. I like to hear what led them to this point in their lives and what’s in their future together. It gives me the chance to relive my own engagement story and wedding plans by living vicariously through them.

I’m interested in your destination wedding photography. Where have you traveled and what stands out to you most about traveling for your job?
I’ve received inquiries for destination weddings in Egypt and Mexico, although, they fell through I was lucky enough to shoot a wedding in Germany last July. Then, to start the new year I just got back from shooting a wedding in Hawaii! Destination weddings have helped me fulfill two of my favorites things: traveling and photography.

Do you ever take your husband along with you?
It’s awesome when my husband gets to tag along. My husband Romie got to go with me to Hawaii, but he stayed home when I was in Germany for three weeks. It was hard because Europe is full of romantic couples and in all the romantic men I saw my husband. It made me miss him a lot. He absolutely loves to travel just as much as I do. But, we do have someone at home who depends on us, his 82-year-old mom lives with us. She has dementia and too much traveling can be hard on her body. Therefore, Romie stays home and allows me to pursue my dreams. I couldn’t have asked for a more understanding and supportive partner in life and love. I’m a lucky girl.

What do you hope to accomplish in this New Year and where do you see yourself five years down the road?
I didn’t make a list, but made “The List.” It’s my New Year’s resolution that I posted on my blogsite for all to see. But, more importantly, as a cyber-reminder to my own self. This year, I am making it all about traveling and weddings. In fact, I’m flying out in a few days to return to the Philippines and spend a few days in Indonesia because I’ve got a few sessions lined up in Bali. I can’t wait! This is my immediate future, but in five years, I see myself shooting a family session … My own family. My husband holding our son and daughter. A long overdue session. No, I haven’t completely given up on the stork. I hope he finds our doorstep soon.

Please tell us what else you’d like CRAVE readers to know about upcoming events:
I’m a fan of giveaways, I love receiving it and giving it away. I just wrapped my first contest of the year (a free boudoir session), but I do have plans for more contests. So, just stalk my blog and be ready to enter and win!

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5 Responses to “Interview with Lifestyle Photographer, Bunn Salarzon”

• Bunn Salarzon | Photographer Says:
  
  January 29th, 2010 at 2:15 pm

  I used to read articles of other people’s interviews — and still do — and think, gosh, they sound so cool! I want to be like them! So, today will go down in my history book as a milestone. Thank you for helping me reach such a stepping stone in my life and career. CRAVEportland rocks solid!

• Dana Davies Says:
  
  January 29th, 2010 at 2:54 pm

  Bunn’s photography is an art to a “T”. She captures the most amazing life moments!! Bunn you are amazing!!! GO AND GET THEM GIRL!!!

• Sara Gray Says:
  
  January 29th, 2010 at 10:47 pm

  As one of Bunn’s colleagues and buddies, I’ve got to say I’m so proud of you reading this! You really have it and I’m glad to be part of this journey for you!

• Leann Phanivong-Kim Says:
  
  January 30th, 2010 at 9:38 am

  Bunn captures the most precious moments during her shoots. I know this first hand. Bunn was there shooting not just as our photographer but as a family friend. Keep up the great work!! We always knew you had talent that you can now show to everybody out there.

• melissa tomeoni Says:
  
  February 3rd, 2010 at 9:02 am

  I agree with Sara, This is a wonderful interview and I am proud to call you a friend. Go get ‘em girl!

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