Introducing Heather Harpole of Heather Harpole Photography!
The sun is setting in Los Angeles, yet there is a luminescent hue to the sky. Delicate viridescent palm leaves wave in reaction to the view as if one last salutation to the sun is necessary to mark the day’s close. It is full of elusive mystery, much like the city of angels itself, yet this evening, it does not reflect the lights on the hills, gloss of a skyscraper, or shimmer of gold-flecked sand. It radiates from the magnetic gaze of cerulean-hued eyes hidden from plain view behind the densely tinted windows of a moving vehicle on the I-10. Charismatic, driven, gifted, and irrepressible, it is not hard to see how so much dynamism releases into the welcoming environment by digital marketing and photography professional Heather Harpole.
Heather Harpole is an upcoming Los Angeles-based creative and photographer who has amassed over 200 photoshoots in a few short months. From editorials, weddings, portraits, and even senior photos, Heather adds a distinct element to all of her highly unique compositions.
“I love that every experience is different with photography,” says Heather, an Arkansas native. “I recently moved to Los Angeles for the digital marketing program at FIDM, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.” Despite moving amid a global pandemic, Heather has established her presence in the city since day one. “I started out posting on a Facebook group and have met so many different people through photography. It is a hobby, but at the same time, it’s also my job. There are a lot of days where I have had more than one booking,” she says, looking every bit poised and relaxed in her jubilation. Juggling her full-time studies as a Presidential Honor Roll student with a full-time schedule of photoshoot appointments, Heather is at ease in her admirable quest for creative excellence. Even when equipped with just an iPhone, Heather is ready for a photographic moment to expose itself. As an outsider looking in, one might find that it often appears that the elements are merely waiting for her.
“My best advice for iPhone photography or anyone starting is to have great lighting. Obviously, it’s easier in California as almost everything is somehow photographable here in one-way shape or form, but lighting is essential, especially for photo dumps. Make sure your lens is cleaned off, and just go out and start. That’s the main tip, just go out and start.”
Having started professional photography only nine months ago, Heather has been prolific and went from using a Canon 80D to Canon 5D Mark IV as her skills have progressed so quickly. “February 2021 has been one of my best months here, so far,” Heather says with a serene smile. She emphasizes that “the backgrounds and people behind the photographs are what interest me the most, and every day is a new story.” Invigorating the medium of photography is palpable through Heather’s visions. One of her ultimate muses is “Lana Del Rey. I would love to work with her, even though her sister Chuck is typically co-creator of her visuals.” Utilizing the unseen, such as storytelling through ingredients like light and design, are a testament to her growing prowess as a photographer. It’s why she can handle capturing enigmatic people of interest. Focused more on her body of work than fashion, Heather is inimitable when it comes to being a ‘typical FIDM student.’
“My aesthetic style is on full display with how I shoot photos. My wardrobe has evolved a lot since moving to L.A. and attending FIDM. I’m always so inspired by the people around me, and I don’t have one main friend group. I like to meet as many people as possible. For my style, I am more focused on unique accessories, poses, and taking it a day at a time.”
Like the flash of a camera, a quick flash of determination from Heather’s electric eyes allows her to intuitively navigate the focal point of the moment. “I feel like I don’t think of photography as male-dominated, I know the industry is big, and it can be intimidating. I just want to have my unique take on it. I’m always looking at old Vogue covers and the current ones too. Every second of the day goes to what I do.” Not everyone admitted to Los Angeles can gain entry into their industry of choice, but through Heather’s awe-inspiring work ethic and tenacity to improve, she belongs here. “The Westside is my favorite part of Los Angeles. I prefer it to other areas. I go to Malibu often and am looking forward to visiting Catalina Island someday soon. My goal is to continue working, though; I love freelancing.” Heather is as beautiful as she is kind and even more hardworking. A genuine leader among her peers, her attentive diligence is unparalleled. “I’m always focused on a project, meeting new people and shooting them. I connect to the flow of ideas, and I’m always connected.” Heather makes no understatement when it comes to meeting her goals of being an industry expert, “there is always something going on in the back of my mind, and I’m doing it my way.”
Heather is available for a limited amount of time for print (or TFP*) bookings and can capture any of life’s special occasions. Schedule a session with her today. She is COVID-19 SAFE. Please DM her on Instagram for details:
@heather_harpole and @heatherharpolephotography.
What did you think of Heather’s feature? Are you in the Los Angeles/SoCal area and looking to collaborate with a supremely gifted photographer? Please look no further and DM Heather today!
You can also find Heather on Youtube and Tiktok, she is coming in HOT! Go girl!
Feel free to reach out on socials, it’s all about Y O U !
XOXO,
Victoria+Alpha