This story was written by a junior journalist. Pleaser refer to byline for author's name.
By Jade Carballea
Libbie Peacock, a senior at Brewer High school, is a dedicated photographer and coincidentally a part of Ursa Major’s news crew. Since her early start in her passion, she's honed her skills to get commissioned for a future wedding event. She’s ready for whatever hardships that lie ahead in her future.
Everyone starts from somewhere, and it’s best that we recognize our roots when we do something great. As it reminds us what got us up to this point and how it shapes us today.
“I got into photography from a young age because my mom used to be a photographer," senior Libbie Peacock said. "It’s always been in my life and I eventually discovered to love it on my own.”
Getting into photography doesn’t always mean one will make a career from it, but it’s always a pleasant surprise when people are willing to pay for your work.
“I wasn’t really sure at first if I would ever profit from photography and I had no problem with that since I do it simply for fun," Peacock said. "However, I have already been commissioned for an upcoming project so maybe I will profit more from it in the future."
Peacock went into photography as a regular hobby, however making a business from one's passion is too good to pass up. But it’s wise to never expect the future to be perfect.
“Fortunately, I haven’t had much difficulty getting to the point I’m at now. It’s been a pretty smooth ride for me and I know I will hit hiccups on the road but I love doing photography when I get the chance.” Peacock said.
It’s easy to ignore how much of an impact the people around you can have on you, a compliment can make a big difference but also being realistic all goes the extra mile.
“I think my biggest supporters are my mom and sisters, as well as my friends here at Brewer." Peacock said. "I love seeing people repost my Instagram posts and hearing honest feedback!”
Regardless of her family and friend’s support, doubt and nervousness can always be at the forefront of someone's mind.
“I got hired to photograph a wedding so of course I’m incredibly nervous," Peacock said. "One tiny mess up or a lag in just the wrong moment and it’s over for me."
Being nervous and fumbling is always a part of the process, but it’s how someone acts when something like that happens. The key to being a freelancer is confidence.
“I don’t have very much experience at all starting a business, but I would say that you need to be headstrong," Peacock said. "Don’t be scared to stand your ground on your prices and time you will be putting towards your work.”
Libbie Peacock’s future shines with a passionate flame that seems inextinguishable. Ursa Major is grateful to have such a skilled member on the news team and will be sad to see her go.