Tracy Shankle

Once upon a time I lived faced paced long days, working in the architectural lighting design industry by day, teaching at night, commuting into and out of the city dressed in a suit and heels.  I mostly enjoyed what I did, I loved my clients and employer, but with the addition of my second child, it all became too much.  Life with a slower pace, more flexibility, creativity, and a grounded presence became my North Star.

I had always enjoyed photography, having studied it in school, but hadn't considered it a feasible career path.  Now, having stepped out of my former roles, I had to find something to do.  I had a camera, a network of colleagues who needed imagery to showcase their work, a warm place in my heart for this world of design, and knew lots of families through my kids.  In 2016, I took a leap and SHANKLEVISION was born, offering architectural photography services and holiday portrait sessions.  To my surprise, I loved this work more than I could have imagined.  

Step by step it has grown; from building outdoor sets to renting a studio, having repeat customers, working with new clients, being published in magazines, and having clients submit images to win awards.  I get to photograph and edit pictures of smiling people and gorgeous environments for a living which is a  D R E A M.  I'm present, available for my family, have the flexibility to travel, and love working in the studio and with my clients.  

This path, or all of the skills, experiences, risks, failures, wins, relationships, and life lessons learned along the way, are what I like to think of as the Upward Spiral.  As long as I continue to learn, reach, and grow, it keeps getting better.   

I'm grateful for the support of my clients who allow me to follow this North Star.  

My job as a photographer allows me the *potential* to pursue happiness each and every day, and for that, I feel pretty freaking blessed.     

(To view architectural work, visit www.SHANKLEVISION.com)