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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, Angela Nicholson speaks with the multi-talented Delaney McQuown, a photographer, digital technician and artist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Delaney’s work, which spans commercial and fine art photography, is defined by its vibrant use of colour and a fearless approach to self-portraiture. In 2024, she won the Claire Aho Award for Women Photographers at the World Food Photography Awards (formerly the Pink Lady Food Photography awards)for her striking self-portrait, BLT Contemplation.

Delaney shares how she first discovered photography as a teenager, building on her love for art nurtured in a creatively supportive household. Her education at the University of Cincinnati further honed her skills, combining fine art principles with practical experience through a co-op programme. Now, as a photographer at OMS Photography, she balances the demands of commercial projects with her passion for personal work.

A significant theme of this episode is Delaney’s self-portraiture project, which she describes as a therapeutic journey to embrace her own image. This project has evolved into a series designed to help other women experience the same sense of liberation. Her latest series, *Swimsuit Season*, invites women to shed societal pressures and embrace their authentic selves in a playful and empowering environment.

Angela and Delaney also discuss the challenges and rewards of entering photography competitions, the impact of winning awards, and the importance of persistence. Delaney offers valuable advice for photographers looking to submit their work, encouraging them to trust their intuition and focus on creating for themselves.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation to learn how Delaney is redefining beauty and creativity through her bold and vibrant photography. Don’t miss her practical tips, heartfelt insights, and infectious passion for empowering women through the lens.

Takeaways

1. The Therapeutic Power of Self-Portraiture
   Delaney shares how her self-portraiture journey helped her confront insecurities and embrace her image, inspiring her to create empowering experiences for other women. 

2. Blending Fine Art and Commercial Photography 
   Delaney discusses how her fine art background influences her bold, colourful commercial photography, creating a unique and vibrant style. 

3. Winning the Claire Aho Award
   Delaney reflects on the impact of winning the prestigious Clarie Aho Award, which reignited her passion for entering competitions and validated her creative vision. 

4. Encouraging Women to Redefine Beauty
   Through projects like Swimsuit Season, Delaney creates spaces for women to express themselves authentically and challenge societal beauty standards. 

5. The Importance of Entering Competitions
   Delaney emphasises the value of submitting work to competitions, encouraging photographers to embrace the process without fear of rejection. 

6. Balancing Commercial Work and Personal Projects
   Delaney highlights how her commercial photography job provides technical skills and support, which she applies to her deeply personal creative projects.

Connect with Delaney
Website
Instagram
OMS Photography

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