Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Outspoken Artist. In this special edition, I had the pleasure of speaking with Erin Hernandez-Reisner, a talented photographic artist, bestselling author, and global speaker. Erin is known for her unique perspective as an autistic artist with tetrachromacy, which allows her to see a broader spectrum of colors than most. In our conversation, we explored her insights on content creation, connection, and the power of visual storytelling.
Table of Contents
- Connecting Through Content Creation
- Her Journey in Photography
- A Life-Changing Experience
- Living with Autism and Embracing Authenticity
- Advice for Aspiring Photographers
- Find Erin Online
- FAQ
Connecting Through Content Creation
Erin is passionate about how we connect with people through content creation. She emphasizes that content is not just about sales; it’s about building relationships. “Where’s the truth? Where do we relate as human beings?” she asks. She believes that we create content every day, not just for social media, and there are many forms that this content can take.
Erin’s upcoming class at Imaging USA, titled “Connection Through Content Creation,” focuses on helping individuals better connect with their audience through meaningful content. “It should be easier,” she says, highlighting the importance of authentic communication in today’s digital landscape.
Her Journey in Photography
Erin’s journey in photography began with weddings and has expanded to include family portraits and trauma storytelling. She identifies as an American photographic artist specializing in trauma portraits, aiming to tell the stories of individuals who have endured significant challenges. “I just want my imagery to help them reach their goals in making the world a better place,” Erin shares.
Her work resonates deeply with her own experiences, as she began photographing trauma portraits even before fully addressing her own trauma. This process has not only changed her as an artist but also as a human. “It made other people feel safe and opened doors for them to share their stories,” she explains.
A Life-Changing Experience
One particularly memorable experience for Erin was photographing Nema Kine, a survivor of female mutilation from the Maasai culture in Kenya. During the session, Nema wore her tribal costume for the first time since her reconstruction. “She started crying because it was healing for her,” Erin recalls. This moment not only impacted Nema but also encouraged other women from her culture to seek help.
Erin is now building a nonprofit called The Compassion Project, aimed at raising funds to build a hospital for women in the Maasai culture. “I wanted to make a bigger change,” she states, emphasizing the importance of addressing health disparities in her community.
Living with Autism and Embracing Authenticity
Throughout our conversation, Erin touched on her experiences with autism and how it has shaped her interactions in the photography space. “I’m starting to find a lot more people that are similar to me,” she states. She shares how overwhelming environments can be, but emphasizes the journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity.
“It’s easier just being yourself,” Erin says, encouraging others to embrace their true selves. Her journey is a reminder that vulnerability can lead to powerful connections and meaningful art.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
If you’re considering attending Imaging USA or any photography expo, Erin has some advice: “Let go of all reservations. Just come with an open heart and willingness to learn.” She encourages people to connect, meet new friends, and embrace the community. “It’s like family,” she adds, highlighting the supportive atmosphere of the photography community.
Find Erin Online
To learn more about Erin and her work, you can find her on Instagram at ErinHernandezReisner. For more information about The Compassion Project, keep an eye out for updates on her website, which will be launching soon!
For more episodes and to explore my merch, promo codes, and socials, visit my main website The Outspoken Artist, or check out this link for a quick view of all my links.
FAQ
- What is The Compassion Project?
The Compassion Project is a nonprofit initiative aimed at providing healthcare and support to women in the Maasai culture.
- How can I support Erin’s work?
Stay tuned for updates on The Compassion Project’s website and consider supporting her initiatives as they develop.
- Where can I find more episodes of The Outspoken Artist?
You can find multiple episodes across various platforms. Visit The Outspoken Artist for details.
