This woman takes some of the most beautiful wedding photos you have ever seen, she has also become a familiar TV face. Even before she was a successful photographer she has always carried herself beautifully and has a refined sophistication about her. In her role as artist, Arden Ward Upton is exhibiting her Equus Collection featuring breathtaking images of show horses in various cities in the United States. MyScoop had the honor to interview Arden, her answers are real, honest, and thought-provoking.
What inspires you about waking up each morning?
Every morning I love waking up to the activities of the farm. I enjoy seeing the horses in their paddocks and the dew on the grass. There’s always so much going on I never know what to expect.
What inspires your work?
I always feel inspired photographing clients by their personalities. I like to see the photos take a real life depiction of how I see people. Some clients are quiet and reflective and other are outgoing and gregarious. I like the images to show that.
How does your family inspire you?
As a child and an adult I have been inspired by my father’s heart. Very few people I come across have the kind spirit my dad does. Growing up my dad was a fireman and I remember asking him everyday he came home from work to tell me stories. I loved hearing how he saved peoples lives. I hope to somehow be apart of making the world a better, kinder more beautiful place. In some small way spending a wedding day with a bride is that to me. I participate in documenting memories that are passed down for generations.
What is your favorite place in the world?
This changes daily! Some days I wake up and my bed is my favorite place, I just want snuggle for hours. Other days our farm is my favorite place and I can hardly pull myself away because I love all the animals so much. And then there is France and I think I am the most inspired in France. I just want to eat bread and butter and macarons.
What advice would you give women going through life’s trials and tribulations?
First be real with yourself. Don’t live in a place of denial. Be kind and reflective with yourself. Most importantly I would say don’t keep your troubles to yourself entirely but only share the depths of them with your closest friends and family. I find that the few times I have really shared something hard people have either dismissed it or used it to benefit them in someway. Don’t give away your power by becoming to familiar with people who are not your friends.
How do we begin to seek a better life?
There are several important aspects to a better life. First have faith, believe in God and your purpose. Become comfortable in your own skin and don’t get easily intimidated by others. Ask for what you want, in prayers and daily life. Be kind to yourself when you fail or make mistakes, it is ok to make mistakes. Set goals both long term and short term. Care about others feelings and be sure to help as many people as you can because you too will need help one day.
Describe your personal style.
My style is overall pretty classic. I enjoy comfortable timeless looks with an occasional bit of edge. A great pair of jeans is a must.
What did you love to wear as a child?
I always remember my easter dresses. They were a big deal to me! I also remember wanting red shoes all the time. So not much has changed dresses and shoes! That’s where it’s at.
What is my favorite quote? I like quotes for different situations so I have a few favorites:
“A women with class is timeless.” -unknown
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” -Dalai Lam XIV
“The only thing worse than being blind is having no vision.” -Helen Keller
Who have played mentor roles in your life?
I don’t have a specific mentor. My style is to be observant of people and when I see ways I like I try to implement them in my life. Also, when I see ways I don’t like I make sure to take note and not operate in that manner. In a way everyone is a mentor that I interact with.
My advice to women in 20’s is:
Take care of yourself, starting early is the key to aging well.
Find balance as best you can.
Eat the dessert.
Buy the shoes.
If you want to do something find away.
Be tenacious.
Be sweet to the elderly, the know so much.
Be a go getter at work.
Keep real friends and dump the rest.
Figure out who you really are.
Spend time by yourself.