Prescott Woman photographer reflects on an ‘eclectic’ journey, which has led her to build a special family in the community she loves
By Audri Baker • Photo by Blushing Cactus
Trisha Shaffer loves capturing the “little moments”: the spontaneity, laughter, and tender moments exchanged among the people she photographs.
Prescott Woman magazine’s staff photographer said her love for photography originated from her great grandparents’ black and white photographs from the late 1800s and early 1900s. As a child, she’d look at them and use her imagination to take her back in time.
A fourth-generation Arizonan, Trisha lived in Phoenix until she was eleven, and her family permanently moved to Prescott. She moved around when she was in her 20s, but “Prescott always pulls you back in if you grew up here. It’s a force to be reckoned with.”
Trisha considers herself “eclectic”; she originally aspired to go into musical theater and went to school for that and other creative pursuits, including film and photography. She also took classes in Early Childhood Education.
In her free time, Trisha enjoys taking photos of nature; when she isn’t making photos, she likes to refurbish old furniture and tend to her land and garden, where she grows herbs to make concoctions. Any other time is spent running her three children around.
The aspect of her life that brings her the most incredible pride is the “diverse and intricate” family she has formed, consisting of her two sons, teenage daughter, and two stepsons, whom she regards as permanent members of her family—and extending beyond immediate family to include cherished friendships.
Trisha also expressed gratitude for her supportive partner, who openly embraced her family.
She dedicates as much time as possible to the community and expresses her love and pride for it, even though her current involvement might be less than what it used to be.
Although Trisha spoke of complex challenges, she emphasized the need to avoid dwelling on the past for too long. She also said it’s essential to continue to place one foot in front of the other while taking time for moments to pause and reflect along the journey.
Trisha hopes to be remembered for her kindness and unwavering presence and support for those who need her help.