This week we’d like to introduce you to portrait and travel photographer Stephanie DeFranco! 

Based in Roswell, NM, Stephanie specializes in senior portraiture and themed photoshoots, using vibrant colors and detailed scenes to bring stories to life. A traveler at heart, Stephanie creates soaring and emotive imagery to document her travels and places she discovers.

Her brilliant style and skill have earned awards and recognition from Click Magazine, Rangefinder, Modern Senior Blog, Summerana, PhotoBiz, Albuquerque Photographers Gallery, and Lensbaby.

We invite you to read Stephanie’s interview below, take a look at her work at stephaniedefranco.com, and follow her on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram! 

Tell us a little bit about yourself! 

My name is Stephanie DeFranco and I was born and raised in Roswell, NM. After graduating college with a bachelors design in graphic design, I pursued a design background with a job at a local printing shop and while having a full-time design job, I continued building my photography business by photographing high school seniors and families.

I’m currently living in New Mexico with my two cats, Jasmine and Ella, but traveling is my passion. I want to be able to experience new culture and document life as I live in that moment. A few other random facts about me: I love coconut iced coffee. I have a passion for thrifting and collecting old film cameras. And when I’m not behind my camera or on the road, you can find me on my couch watching re-runs of Castle and Big Bang Theory.

Almost 11 years since I’ve picked up my first camera, a Nikon d40, my credits include Best of Category and Finalist for the Click Magazine Voice Collection, published in Rangefinder Magazine "Take Your Best Shot" collection, featured photos on the Modern Senior Blog, Summerana Top Ten Photographer, Photobiz Featured Photographer, Grand Prize finalist for Albuquerque Photographers Gallery and most recently a Featured Artist and Maker with Lensbaby.

How would you describe your photographic style?

I would describe my photographic style as whimsical, authentic and colorful! I always try to make sure the subject will pop out of the photo with a burst of color or unposed movement. I try to capture the moments between the poses when my subject is just being themselves.

Did you always want to be a photographer?

I never considered photography to be a career when I was in school, but with that being said, I was always the person that brought a camera with me everywhere. My mom and grandma were always taking photos of sporting events or band concerts, and I guess having a camera in hand was ingrained into my life from a young age. It wasn't until my senior year of high school did I take yearbook and mentored with a photographer that I really started getting into photography. I remember sitting in the chair next to the photographer and he wanted to show me the power of photoshop. It was in that moment that I wanted to learn more about my camera and how to pursue this passion.

What inspires you?

I'm so inspired by people and their stories. Before every session, I try to meet with the person I'm going to be photographing. I want to know them and what they do. Are they involved in any activities, what are their beliefs, do they like a certain type of coffee. These stories are what make the shots special and being able to capture that moment is an inspiration to me. 

What's your dream photoshoot? (Theme, subject, location or maybe celebrity :)

Ohhhhh man! My dream photoshoot?! I have so many places I would like to go and people I would like to get in front of my camera. BUT, I think if I could work with Annie Leibovitz on one of her Disney Dream Portrait sessions that would be the ultimate dream photoshoot. I am OBSESSED with this entire series and being able to just be in her presence and watch how she works would be a dream come true.

Is there anything else you want the world to know about you or your work?

I hope in reading this blog, you've learned a little more about a photographer that just loves doing what she loves doing. Photography is more than just clicking a button to me. It's about expression and capturing a moment in time that you will never get back. If you take a pause to think about the things in life that hold the most value, photos are a priceless possession that after we're gone, the world will remember what life was and will forever be in that click.