about me

Hi, I’m Emily Riddle, a freelance photographer based in Michigan and a senior at Grand Valley State University, majoring in Photography. I’ve been behind the camera for over seven years and currently work as a student photographer for both the GVSU Promotions Office and University Communications. My work is all about learning, growing, and adapting to new environments, whether I’m shooting events, portraits, or sports. After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in professional sports photography while continuing to grow my freelance business.

How I got started with Photography

I got my first camera in 2018, a Canon Rebel T6, and I knew I wanted to be a photographer like Bryant Eslava. I didn’t really dive in until 2020, when I took an online photo class in high school that gave me a solid foundation. After that, I started exploring portrait and sports photography. During the school year after COVID, I photographed every varsity boys and girls basketball game at my school, and that’s when it really clicked for me. The following summer, I started shooting more portraits, pushing myself creatively. By senior year, I was editor-in-chief of the yearbook and covering every school event. I loved the variety photography has to offer, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Every time I pick up my camera I get reminded of why I love it so much.