My name is Cora Spychalla, and I am a semi-recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I earned a major in Journalism with an emphasis on strategic communication, as well as certificates (minors) in graphic design, digital studies, and digital media data analytics.
Growing up, I have always had a love for art and storytelling. This began when I was sixteen and bought my first 'real' camera. That camera was--and still is--my baby and lives on my side at all times. Throughout the years this passion has continued to grow and I have been able to develop this portfolio with it.
I then taught myself the ins and outs of photography, as well as how to work with programs like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. I quickly became more comfortable with what I was doing and started to take on jobs from friends, family, and eventually people who heard of my work through word of mouth.
I have had the opportunity to shoot senior photos, family photos, real estate photography, and one (awesome) wedding. During college, I worked for the Daily Cardinal as a photographer, working closely with the editor-in-chief to have accurate and supplementary photos to go with the articles being published. Lately, I am doing event photography as well as food & beverage work at the restaurant I work at.
I have a passion for writing, as well as listening to good music, going on long walks, and teaching myself fun recipes! I am constantly trying to learn new things and spend as much time outdoors as possible.
(This picture is mostly to highlight that I have learned from my mistakes and am no longer bleaching my poor, damaged hair #Healing)
Along with photography, I have learned graphic design throughout my college courses as well as teaching myself. I enjoy trying new things, especially learning new tools within the programs. There have been times when I seek out a YouTube video for a random tool in Illustrator or Photoshop, and I spent hours watching it and mastering it on my own. The result of successfully learning a tool, and the program in general, is such a fun thrill for me that I can't get enough of it. There is always something new to learn with these programs and this industry in general and I love it.
AWARDS
Wisconsin Newspaper Association / Page Design / Third Place / 2023
Milwaukee Press Club / Best Photo Essay / 2023