Tracey Westgate – Beyond the Lens: Seeing People, Not Poses In this heart-centered episode of Creativity Connects, host Mikki Wilson sits down with photographer Tracey Westgate to explore what it really means to be seen—not staged. From a childhood shaped by art and a mom’s hobby camera to a decade in nonprofit leadership and the launch of her “Grit & Grace” portrait series, Tracey shares how authenticity, community, and childhood joy inform her work behind the lens. Key Topics Discussed How intrinsic value guides Tracey’s approach to photographing people as they are—and as they wish to be From “mom with a camera” to artist: the Grit & Grace turning point Making portraits feel natural, fun, and reflective of the real you Why Creative Collective’s community energy accelerates growth and experimentation Childhood joy as a creative compass (horses, 110 cameras, and noticing light) Authentic images as a foundation for brand trust and visibility Memorable Quotes “Every person has intrinsic value. My job is to make sure they feel seen in an authentic way.” — Tracey “Photography is magic because time is fleeting. Images transport us back to the moments that matter.” — Tracey “I stopped saying ‘I’m just a photographer’ and claimed the word ‘artist.’” — Tracey “A single portrait can become a movement when you keep saying yes to curiosity.” — Mikki About the Guest Tracey Westgate is a Massachusetts-based photographer known for authentic portraits that center real people, real emotions, and real connection. Her series Grit & Grace celebrates women thriving in male-dominated fields through powerful imagery and first-person stories. A proud Creative Collective member, Tracey is a steadfast supporter of small businesses, artists, and makers across the North Shore. About the Podcast Creativity Connects with Mikki Wilson is a Creative Collective podcast that goes beyond the brand to explore the authentic journeys of women entrepreneurs. Hosted by Mikki Wilson, founder of Dot Connector Consulting. Produced by Randyll Collum for Peabody TV. Sponsored by Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry. Connect with Tracey Westgate Website: traceywestgate.com Instagram: @traceywestgate This podcast is produced by Randyll Collum for Peabody TV, your community media center serving the residents and businesses of Peabody and the North Shore area. Learn more at peabodytv.org. Creativity Connects with Mikki Wilson is a Creative Collective podcast. Learn more at creativecollectivema.com. Sponsored by Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry.