Meet Lori Mitchum | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lori Mitchum and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lori, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
As a photographer, I find my inspiration in capturing the exquisite intricacies of nature that are often overlooked by most of us as we rush through life. It’s the delicate web of veins on the back of a leaf, the glistening dewdrops clinging to petals, the patterns and colors reflecting on water, the mesmerizing dance of shadows etching patterns on the ground, and the rough yet captivating texture of tree bark that capture my eye. I thrive in the unhurried pace of slowly and carefully exploring, finding where overlooked beauty resides in nature. It’s in these moments of quiet observation that I find relaxation and peace, as I uncover the hidden treasures waiting to be showcased through my lens.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I grew up with a mother and grandmother who were artists, and I loved taking every art class I could in school. My favorite classes were sculpture and photography where we were able to develop our own images. I continued my love for art into college with graphic design and was hired to do that at my current company, 27 years ago. Over time, not only was I creating documents but I was also event planning and taking on human resources responsibilities. Eventually I moved exclusively to events and human resources and am now the VP of Human Resources. Though I enjoy strategic thinking and managing the roll out of new ideas, projects and initiatives, I found myself missing creating art. About 10 years ago, I began taking pictures of my kids playing sports. Before I knew it, I was planning outings and making time to take pictures of nature as well. I find the process to be calming, satisfying and very fulfilling. When my kids grew up and left the nest, I encouraged myself to dedicate more time to doing things that bring me happiness, and photography was at the top of the list.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Working in Atlanta for over 25 years and living in various areas in the metro Atlanta area my entire life, my list is geographically spread out. Lunch at Vortex and Varsity, a play at the Fox and stop at the National Center for Civil & Human Rights. Dinner at Canoe, Gunshow and Sundial. Head north to the Booth Museum, stop at the Battery for a Braves game and dueling pianos at Park Bench at the Battery, and then head south to Wild Animal Safari. An arts festival around town or at Piedmont Park would definitely be on the calendar if it was the right season.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My grandmother and mother were both artists. My mother, Kitty, loved to paint and was a creative spirit. She encouraged art of all sorts and I grew up watching her spend time pursuing her artistic passions and seeing the joy that dedicating time to her passion brought her. Growing up we made pottery together, baked together, made crafts and painted. She would often give painting lessons to friends and family. My mother absolutely helped to foster my love of art and was a great example to me to prioritize making time to do creative things that bring me joy.

Website: https://www.lorimitchum.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorimitchumphotography

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-mitchum-sphr