Tana Taylor
Tana & Rose Photography is one of the fastest growing boutique studios in California. The founders of the studio, Tana Ava Taylor, and Rose Hamilton have been friends for many years and decided to open their photography business because of a shared love of capturing images of their family and friends. The growth of the business has been based around capturing whimsical, fun images along with the popular Tana Taylor adoption packages. Tana Taylor comes from a family history including the adoption of children which makes her decision to create user-friendly Ava Rose Taylor adoption packages a personal project. Growing across the state of California, Tana & Rose Photography is one of the most popular startup studios in the U.S. for the impressive work being done by the founders.
What is your hobby?
I don’t get a lot of free time, so when I do, I like to relax with my family. Recently, I have been exploring the many options in California for hiking around some impressive mountains. Getting out into the open air allows me to spend time with my children away from cell phones, games consoles, and the other daily distractions of modern life. Hiking is a great way to stay fit and make sure my kids are staying active on a regular basis.
How did you get started with this hobby? What inspired you?
My family spent a weekend in Washington State, and we decided to take a hike up Poo Poo Point. It wasn’t a very long hike, but it was steep and difficult for us to complete as novice walkers, but we did find our love of hiking when we reached a viewing area giving us a clear look at the impressive Mount Rainier. After we completed the hike, the kids were bitten by the walking bug and wanted to find more every weekend.
Tell us what you love about it.
For myself, it is the chance to enjoy some quiet time in the natural world. Of course, I do love spending time with my family, but I also love the silence I can find on the side of a mountain. We also love the fact there are many hiking opportunities close to some major cities offering great photographic opportunities for me to enjoy.
Are there any groups you’re a part of or events that you attend related to your hobby?
My children are school age with a major interest in history which we try to encourage and recently joined the Oregon-California Trails Association. This group finds trails and hikes based around the passage of pioneers to and from the Northwest and California. The group is also looking to preserve many of the trails threatened by deforestation and construction which is of great historical importance.
Have you had to invest in equipment and if so, please share some of the things you’ve bought.
Sturdy walking shoes are a must when you are looking to become a serious walker through difficult terrain. On our first hike up Poo Poo Point, we wore sneakers and had sore feet and blisters by the time we made it back to our hotel. One item I did purchase recently is a hydration pack similar to a backpack which carries water. I am trying to reduce my footprint on the planet by not using plastic water bottles, and a hydration pack is making this an easier task to complete.
Where do you buy most of your supplies?
I enjoy going to sporting goods stores and small hiking stores in the areas we visit, but I do buy some items Online. I think it is important to support small, independent stores providing more than just equipment. I like to find small stores and make a purchase which allows me to talk with the owners who usually know where the best trails are located.
Are there any good books for beginners?
After we finished our hike up Poo Poo Point, I quickly looked Online for a book to help us be better prepared for our future trips. I ordered “The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide” by Andrew Skurka which gave us a little knowledge of the safety equipment we needed and how to choose real hiking boots.
How has this changed your life?
Running my own business can be difficult and stressful when it takes me away from my family for long periods of time. Hiking is a great way of connecting with my kids in the natural environment and allows me to limit my stress. After heading back to work after a weekend of hiking, I am more relaxed and focused on the challenges of operating Tana & Rose Photography.
What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?
Get out and get walking. It is as simple as that. If you are unsure of where to go to stay safe hiking, it is a good idea to find a small outdoors store and have a talk with the owners.
Are there any other hobbies you have?
As a mom, I spend much of my time taking my kids to various activities including soccer which I have grown to love on the TV. We recently took a vacation to Spain and watched a live soccer match in Barcelona which was the most amazing experience I have ever been a part of.