Flint photographer builds business through creativity, community

FLINT, Mich. — What started as a $50 wedding gig has grown into a decade-long photography business for My Proulx, whose work now captures concerts, performances and portraits across the city.

Owner of Plain Air Photography, Proulx did not originally plan to photograph weddings. At the time, she was working as a school photographer taking yearbook photos when someone asked if she could shoot their wedding.

“In my mind, that was not anywhere near the same thing,” Proulx said. “But I thought, maybe I could do this. And when she loved the photos, that was really the moment where I realized, okay, maybe this is something I can actually build.”

That first gig marked the beginning of what would become a 10-year career behind the camera.

Looking back, Proulx said she would not change how she approached that early opportunity, even with limited equipment and experience.

“My camera was just something you’d take on vacation,” she said. “I did what I could. I was nervous, figuring out where I should stand, if I should move during the ceremony. But that experience pushed me into becoming more confident about how I show up as a photographer.”

Today, Proulx specializes in event photography, particularly in low-light settings like concerts and performances; an area many photographers find challenging.

“I love the contrast,” Proulx said. “It’s dark, but you have these really intentional lights hitting the subject. It creates something dramatic and emotional. That’s my favorite thing to capture.”

She is especially drawn to photographing performers and dancers, where movement and expression take center stage.

“They know how to move, and it feels like they’re almost waiting for the camera,” Proulx said. “I’m always looking for lines, angles, patterns. Those little moments where everything just comes together.”

While the creative side of photography fuels her passion, the business side has come with its share of challenges.

Proulx said one of the biggest hurdles has been seasonal inconsistency, particularly during Michigan winters when outdoor shoots and events slow down.

“It can be really unpredictable,” she said. “You might have weeks where nothing is happening, and then suddenly everything comes at once. And I don’t like telling people no, so that part can be tough.”

Before securing a studio space, those slower months were even more difficult, limiting her ability to shoot indoor portraits.

Now working out of a space inside Riverbank Arts in downtown Flint, Proulx has been able to expand her services, including offering more accessible headshot sessions.

“I have a more convenient setup now, so people can just come in and we’re ready to go,” she said. “This year, I actually broke my record for how many headshots I’ve done, and that’s something I’ve never experienced before.”

In addition to running her business, Proulx also teaches photography, helping students develop both technical skills and confidence.

“I’ve always been a teacher,” she said. “Even as a kid, I was teaching my stuffed animals. I just love learning, and teaching is a natural extension of that.”

Working with students, many of whom are introverted, has become one of the most meaningful parts of her career.

“I have students who can barely talk to their classmates at first,” Proulx said. “But over time, they start opening up. Seeing that growth, seeing them get excited about what they’ve created; that’s the best part.”

That same approach carries into how she works with clients who may feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. One technique she uses is “reflective posing,” where she mirrors expressions and movements to guide clients into more natural poses.

“I’ll physically show them what I mean,” she said. “Especially with kids or people who feel awkward, it helps them relax and understand what I’m looking for.”

Beyond technique, Proulx said photography has also transformed how she connects with the community. She credits Flint itself as a major source of inspiration.

“Flint is really inspiring,” Proulx said. “There are so many creative people here, so many different communities doing interesting things. It makes me want to keep creating.”

For those looking to start their own photography business, Proulx emphasized the importance of stepping outside comfort zones.

“You have to move; physically and socially,” she said. “Move around the room, get different angles, but also move into spaces you’re not used to being in. Connect with different communities. That’s how you grow.”

Plain Air Photography is located inside Riverbank Arts, located at 400 Saginaw St. To learn more about Plain Air Photography and to book a session, visit myproulx.myportfolio.com