Meet Rebecca Spoor | Photographer

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

Hi Rebecca, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a young age, I knew I was destined to pursue a career in the arts. Initially, my passion was rooted in music. I played the euphonium and envisioned a future performing in a military band or teaching music at the collegiate level. Music gave me discipline, emotional expression, and a strong sense of identity. However, like many, the COVID-19 pandemic marked a significant turning point in my life.

As the world came to a standstill, so did many of the plans I had been preparing for. The pressures of college auditions and the isolation brought on by the pandemic exacerbated my imposter syndrome. I found myself questioning my abilities and my future in music. I felt creatively and emotionally stuck, unsure of which direction to take next. It was during this uncertain period that I began to re-evaluate what truly brought me joy and fulfillment.

Initially, I explored more “stable” fields like medicine and dentistry, driven by a desire to find practical security. However, these paths never felt like the right fit. I then considered interior design, pairing it with a minor in photography, a creative compromise, but still not entirely satisfying. I felt a persistent void, a lack of connection to what I was doing.

Eventually, I came to a powerful realization: photography had been a consistent passion throughout my life. My uncle introduced me to photography when I was 12, teaching me how to use a camera and igniting a love for visual storytelling. At the time, I had even dreamed of becoming a photographer like him. Reflecting on those memories and recognizing how photography had always remained close to my heart, I decided to fully embrace it as my career. Once I made that decision, everything began to align. It simply felt right.

Photography allows me to blend creativity, emotion, and technical skill into a powerful form of communication. It’s not just a profession for me; it’s a way to connect with others and tell meaningful stories. My journey has taught me that it’s okay to pursue a creative path, even when it comes with financial uncertainties or societal expectations.

As a woman working in photography, a field still largely dominated by men, I’ve often had to work harder to prove myself, just as I did while playing the euphonium in male-dominated music ensembles. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of perseverance and purpose. I am committed to challenging stereotypes and uplifting other women to pursue careers in creative industries. I want to be a voice of encouragement for those who feel they don’t belong or worry their passion won’t lead to success.

This journey hasn’t been linear, but each step, whether in music, design, or uncertainty, has shaped the artist and professional I am today. I’m proud of where I’ve landed, and even more excited about where I’m headed.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. It took a lot of trial and error, soul-searching, and ultimately trusting my creative instincts. Stepping away from music, something that had defined me for so long, was incredibly difficult. I faced a lot of internal conflict and pressure to choose a “safe” or more traditional career. I doubted myself often, especially during the early stages of switching to photography full-time. There were moments where I felt completely lost and unsure if I was making the right decision. But every time I picked up a camera, I felt grounded again. That consistent feeling of purpose is what kept me going.

Overcoming those challenges meant letting go of the fear of failure and embracing the unknown. I learned to see uncertainty not as a setback, but as space for reinvention. I leaned on the support and inspiration of those close to me, especially my uncle, who reminded me that creative careers are not only valid but vital. I also learned the importance of advocating for myself as a woman in creative and male-dominated fields. That fight for visibility and recognition has only strengthened my voice and vision as an artist.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that fulfillment doesn’t come from following someone else’s blueprint. It comes from following what feels right, even if it’s unconventional. I’ve also learned to value growth over perfection, and to find meaning in every step of the journey, not just the destination.

Now, as I pursue a career in photojournalism, I want to use my work to tell stories that need to be seen and heard. I’m drawn to real, raw, and honest narratives, especially those that are often overlooked. My goal is to combine artistic vision with truth-telling, and use my lens to amplify voices, highlight social issues, and document history as it unfolds.

At the heart of my brand is authenticity, resilience, and purpose. I want the world to know that behind every photo I take is a deep respect for storytelling and the people behind those stories. My journey may have started with uncertainty, but it’s led me to a place where I feel aligned with who I am and what I’m meant to do.

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?
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d plan a trip that reflects everything I love about this city. Its creative energy, cultural richness, and those hidden gems that make it feel like home. On the first day, we’d keep things relaxed. I’d take them to Chrome Yellow Trading Co. or Perc Coffee for the perfect latte and people-watching in a cozy, artsy space. Then we’d explore Cabbagetown and stroll along the Krog Street Tunnel, soaking in the murals and street art that give Atlanta so much color. For dinner, we’d head to Ticonderoga Club in Krog Street Market, great cocktails, intimate lighting, and that cool-but-not-trying-too-hard vibe.

Day two would be all about photography and creativity. We’d start early at Piedmont Park to catch the sunrise over the skyline, then grab brunch at Home Grown GA for some Southern comfort food done right. Afterward, we’d visit the High Museum of Art. That evening, we’d find a rooftop bar like 9 Mile Station at Ponce City Market for sunset views, good drinks, and golden hour photo ops.

On day three, we’d take a break from the city and do a nature day trip to Arabia Mountain or Sweetwater Creek State Park, both peaceful, photo-worthy spots that feel like a reset. We’d bring snacks, film cameras, and enjoy the quiet. After getting back, we’d keep the night nostalgic with something fun like Joystick Gamebar, where we could play old-school arcade games and sip themed cocktails, or maybe catch a late showing at Plaza Theatre for a cult-classic film.

Midweek, we’d dive into Atlanta’s culture and community. We’d spend the day at the Atlanta BeltLine, exploring different neighborhoods along the trail, checking out pop-up art, local vendors, and musicians. We’d grab tacos from El Tesoro or something from the Ponce City Market food hall, then spend the evening listening to live music at Aisle 5 in Little Five Points.

On Thursday, we’d take a slower day to recharge creatively. Maybe we’d start the morning editing photos or journaling at Brash Coffee in West Midtown, then check out local shops and galleries in Castleberry Hill, which is packed with artist-run spaces. That night, we’d cook dinner at home, play music, and create a little gallery night, sharing our favorite photos and moments so far.

Day six would be our “do everything fun” day. We’d go thrifting at Lost-N-Found or Buffalo Exchange, maybe even take portraits in cool fits around Little Five Points. For lunch, we’d get something flavorful and bold, like Korean BBQ at Breakers, or ramen from Ok Yaki in East Atlanta. At night, we could go dancing at MJQ Concourse, or if we wanted to stay in, throw our own dance party with a curated playlist and some wine.

On the last day, we’d keep it simple and sweet. One last brunch, probably at Muchacho followed by a chill afternoon walking the trails at Lullwater Preserve or relaxing in Grant Park. We’d watch the sunset somewhere quiet, maybe from the Jackson Street Bridge overlooking downtown, and just soak in everything we did that week, reflecting on the laughs, the creativity, and how special it is to make memories in a city like Atlanta.

Atlanta has this magic where history, art, grit, and beauty all blend together. It’s full of inspiring people, powerful stories, and endless places to explore. That’s what I’d want my best friend to experience the heart of the city, not just the tourist spots. I’d want them to leave feeling creatively recharged, connected, and like they saw the real Atlanta.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My uncle, Gabriel Weber, has been one of the most influential figures in my creative journey. He was the first person to introduce me to photography when I was just 12 years old, placing a camera in my hands and patiently teaching me the fundamentals of capturing a moment with intention. Watching him work and seeing how he approached the world through a lens sparked something in me that never truly faded. His passion for photography was contagious, but what inspired me most was his ability to find meaning and beauty in the everyday. He showed me that creativity could be a lifelong pursuit and a legitimate career, even if it came with challenges. His encouragement helped me believe that it’s okay to choose a nontraditional path, that doing what you love is a form of success in itself. Today, his example continues to remind me to stay curious, stay authentic, and trust my artistic voice, no matter how uncertain the path may seem.

Website: https://rspoor.myportfolio.com

Instagram: rspoor.photography

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-s-4b5a82263