Genevieve Davis is a vibrant soul, a photographer, surfer, and devoted dog lover. She radiates an infectious zest for life that fills every room with warmth, and she's not shy about busting a move in front of strangers. When she's not riding the waves, you'll likely find her wandering the mountains, tapping into her wild, adventurous spirit. Crossing paths with her is a true delight, leaving you stoked and inspired.

What advice would you give to a woman who is thinking of pursuing a career in photography?

Stick to your guns & know your worth. You're going to be told "no" over and over again, you're going to be talked down to over and over again, you're going to be looked past. You have to have thick skin. Hone in your craft so your skill backs you up. If you don't feel confident, keep practicing & fake it till you make it.

What are some of the obstacles and challenges you have faced with this occupation?

The statistics on male to female photographers are all over the place, but the older generations of professional photographers, photo assistants & techs were definitely dominated by males. The industry is changing rapidly in favor of female photographers, but my personal experience has always been that I am either one of few or the only woman in the room, and often the youngest person in the room. It can be incredibly challenging to feel heard or respected at times. My hope is that by sticking it out and proving my worth it will make it easier for the generation of females that come after me. There are much harder industries for women to be in, but the photography industry-at least in the avenues I've navigated-isn't a beacon of equality quite yet.

What are some of the tips and tricks you used to keep you going during the times you thought about giving up photography all together?

I'll never stop shooting, but I still have frustrating days where I think about giving up photography as a profession. During these times it's important to shoot personal projects and remember why you fell in love with photography to begin with. I also believe in allowing yourself room for evolution, and there's nothing wrong with moving on if ultimately you decide that's whats best.

What are some of the morals and values you think are important to live by?

Think critically, deconstruct societal standards that were set for you before you were born, & reconstruct a life that works for you. Listen to your gut.

I am acutely aware of my mortality. This practice has helped me become actively grateful for every breath.

Above all foster empathy & kindness. Give everyone the time of day.

Tell me one Genevieve fun fact....

My pipe dream is to move to Colorado & become a cowgirl. I'm pretty determined to make that happen at some point.

Besides photography what are some of the things you are interested in?

I've been riding motorcycles going on 4 years now. I've ridden through 11 states and intend to ride in all 50. I love the outdoors & I use almost all my weekends to get as lost in nature as possible. I write and play music. I'm hoping to release a self-produced EP by the end of the year. I'm not very good but I'm using the punk rock ethos of 3 chords & some lyrics & hoping that sticks. It's not really for anyone but myself anyway.

You say you love everything on wheels.... When did you start rolling around?

In the spirit of the 90s I was really into roller blading when I was young, I can't even remember how old I was when I started, but I was young. In high school I got into skateboarding & downhill bombing, when I was 19 I joined a roller derby league & was a derby doll for 5 years, motorcycles were the next step in a natural evolution. I still love to skate.

What is your morning routine?

Pretty unceremonious. Roll out of bed after clicking the snooze 10x with just enough time to ride my bicycle or motorcycle to work. I get coffee from the coffee bar at our office after I get there, it gives me something to look forward to in the morning.