by Yvette Depaepe
Published the 15^th of April 2024

Susan Beausang's work is very diversified and covers several photographic categories.  Her journey on 1x has blossomed into a path of self-discovery and artistic growth. She views it as a learning experience.  Susan considers every photograph she takes as a reflection of her unique voice and her life’s unexpected journey. She quotes Ansel Adams : 'You don't take a photograph, you make it'.
Let's listen to her story and learn more about this fine lady artist.

'Three is Company'

Introduced to 1x.com by my good friend and fellow photographer, Jane Lyons, I found myself in a world where esteemed photographers from all over the world showcase their extraordinary work. Initially, I was unsure that my work could measure up to the talent that surrounded me however I decided to view 1x.com as a source of inspiration and motivation. 

My photography journey started as a necessity but soon blossomed into a passion.  Life has a funny way of testing you.  When I developed a rare disease that causes hair loss, I chose to turn this adversity into something positive. I designed a patented fashion forward scarf intended specifically for women and girls with medical hair loss which I sold all over the world.   Initially, my photography journey was driven by a means to photograph the new fabric choices for my scarves, and so what began as a business necessity soon transformed into a lifelong passion.

Determined to understand more about the art of photography, I committed to a two-year photography program at the Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL.  My personality is dominated by a competitive spirit and an insatiable hunger for knowledge.  Photography was not just an art form for me but a competitive challenge waiting to be conquered. 

My initial days of my photography journey found extremely diversified interests. To some extent I am still that way and find it freeing not to be confined by one genre or style.  A myriad of interests allows me to explore new horizons and challenge myself to the fullest.  I view all genres as a means of storytelling with endless opportunities. 

Several years ago, the two “big C’s” entered my life almost simultaneously – Cancer and COVID which profoundly affected my work.  This altered the direction of my life and affected my freedom to shoot anywhere, anytime.  Once again, in the face of adversity I refused to be confined by circumstance.  I turned my garage into a makeshift studio and began to explore the world of still life, water photography, macro photography, creative composites, imaginative lighting techniques, and artistic editing.

Living with cancer produces a sense of urgency that affects many aspects of my life including my photography.  At times, it may appear that I am fixated on a single subject but it’s more a burning desire to achieve success, find new outlets for my creativity by exploring and mastering new techniques and a relentless pursuit of excellence. 

I’ve always been a Nikon shooter but recently I sold all my DSLR equipment and only shoot mirrorless with a Nikon 711 and a Nikon Z8.  

My mother is by far my greatest influence in my photography journey – a talented photographer whose passion and skills remains with me.  Despite her best efforts to ignite my photography interest, my initial pursuits were elsewhere.  It wasn’t until she had put down her camera that I picked up mine and ventured into the world of photography. Even though she was no longer using her camera, my mother remained my biggest influence and my staunchest critic.  Her constructive criticism challenged me and pushed me to see the world from behind the lens.   

My journey on 1x.com has blossomed into a path of self-discovery and artistic growth. This has not always been a straight line, but I view it all as a learning experience.  I consider every photograph I take a reflection of my unique voice and my life’s unexpected journey.

“You don’t take a photograph, you make it”
~Ansel Adams~

'Bloom By Night'

'Just Plain Pretty'

'Crazy Hear Day'

'Hey Mom'

'A Tender Moment'

'Preening'
 

'Reflective Run'

'Dancing Tulip'
 

'Dandelion Hearts'

'Strawberries and Cream'

'Strawberry and Kiwi Splash'

'Dancing Calla Lillies'

'My Mama.'

'Equine Family Portrait'