Throughout March we are celebrating Women in the Arts with a connection to the Isle of Man. The aim of this series is to highlight the challenges that women face in the creative industry, share some advice to other creatives and also to celebrate these featured women in their achievements. We are approaching a number of women across the spectrum of age, art discipline and experience.
Amoré du Plessis
What is your professional background in the arts?
I am a photographer (as well as a musician)
What inspired you to pursue a career as a photographer and musician?
I had just finished my Masters in Music degree and was already teaching for 10 years when we moved to the island at the end of 2017. I wanted to take a little break from the teaching and always fancied doing photography. Having a camera and never learning to use it properly, I attended Shan Fisher's beginner photography course and soon found out that I really enjoyed it. After attending the third course, she motivated me and gave me that extra little nudge to start my photography business. Growing up, we as a family rarely had professional pictures taken of us and I used to love going through any and all old photographs (those that you dig out of a shoebox at grandma's house) and envisioning the people and places in each. After my dad passed away, I realised that we have very little photos together and I think that has also played a very big role in my passion for photography and capturing precious moments for families.
What progress have you seen for women in your field?
There are so many amazing photographers (women & men) around the world, each with their own niche and style and so many of them are being recognised for their skills and art. Street photography is one genre that has always fascinated me, and the works of Ruth Orkin, Helen Levitt and Diana Arbus brought a whole new movement forward and paved the way for the women of today, including Laura Reid & Elena Alexandra.
What do you think is the biggest issue in the creative industries facing women of your age?
I think one of the big issues women are facing is the competition mentality - trying to compete and compare against other women and other successes. We create our own success and our journeys are all going to be different. Instead of competing and comparing, we should be recognising, uplifting and learning from each other - that's how we grow and how we change the world together.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and can you share an example of that happening to you?
I have so many strong female influences that have walked on my path with me - from the very start having a mother that is caring and nurturing and raising us with good values has created the person I am today. Throughout the years, I've been fortunate enough to work with many female leaders in their industries - from the all female office team of the South African National Youth Orchestra (in my role as arts administrator) to my business mentor from the Micro Business Grant Scheme, Sandra Robinson (group CEO at iPensions & director at Steer Alliance Ltd) and my teacher Shan Fisher from Shan Fisher Photography & Education, all of them who have inspired, motivated, guided, assisted and challenged me to become a better version of myself and build a successful business.
In the lead up to International Women’s Day (8th March), what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about a career in the arts?
Any job that you do, if you want to succeed, hard work, passion and dedication need to be your biggest driving forces. Find leaders in your industry, connect with with them, sit with them, learn from them and be inspired and motivated by them. The art industry is just waiting to meet you and see what you have to offer.
What have you been working on/what would you like to promote?
I have been working on so many exciting and varied projects over the last three years, from corporate business sessions to events to studio newborn sessions. I offer a variety of photo packages to suit your budget. If you would like to get in touch regarding your specific photo needs, make sure to check out my social pages and get in contact with me via email.
Where can we stay up to date?
Website: https://amoresphotos.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amoresphotos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoredp_photos/ & https://www.instagram.com/amoredp_studio/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/73503688/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/amor%C3%A9-d-329a3022/
Email: amoredupphotos@gmail.com
