Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Alford.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alex. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I discovered I had a passion for photography by capturing images during my adventures and travels. Landscape photography was my first love in the industry and is how I got my start. My friends and family started to ask for prints of my work, and it went from there. I knew if I wanted to spend my life doing something I love, I’d have to start monetizing my passion. Lifestyle photography came easy because I happen to live with the most amazing subject, my dog, Jessie. I then started to capture my friends and family, and then word spread to acquaintances and I eventually had my first paying customer. When I was asked to do my first wedding for close friends, it led me to discover how much I enjoy capturing those once in a lifetime moments. Now, I market myself as a wedding and lifestyle photographer.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road has definitely been a bumpy one! There have been many moments that have tested my confidence, perseverance, work ethic.. the list goes on. I struggled with inspiration when I lived on the east coast. I didn’t receive much support from the people around me when I would mention I wanted to start my own photography business. I heard a lot of comments like; “That’s not a career’, “You’ll never make money doing that”, “Anyone can be a photographer”, etc. I moved to San Diego three years ago to make my dreams a reality and didn’t look back. The first few years were rough, I was trying to find my way in a city where I knew no one. I started taking classes at the Art Institute of San Diego studying digital photography. This opportunity brought me, great mentors, introduced me to several peers in the industry and provided daily inspiration which helped me become more confident in my abilities. After a few quarters, I felt it was time to start focusing solely on my business. I unenrolled and spent most of my waking hours building my business, Alex Marie Photography. I had to work on all the “fun stuff” of the business like my business plan, marketing plan, contracts, packages, website, etc., on top of going out and shooting whenever I could. I offered many free photoshoots to my friends so I could market on social media and gain content to build my portfolio. As I expanded my portfolio, I started to gain more paid clientele. I know have so much more to learn and so much more I want to achieve in this industry, and that inspires me daily.
My advice to young women who are just starting their journey would be to stay focused and grateful. You have big dreams and you’re not afraid to chase them, that’s rare. When everything becomes overwhelming, know that the work you are putting in is bringing you closer to achieving your goals, even if it doesn’t feel like it. “Free time” will be a rare occurrence in your weekly schedule, but do your best to spend at least an hour a day doing something for yourself. For me, that is exercise. Stay inspired through your own creative mind and surround yourself with people and places that lift you up. Creating these types of healthy habits will make your journey a smoother process. Building a business from the ground up is never an easy journey, but when goals are reached and the fruits of your labor begin to emerge, the reward is immense. Best believe that!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Alex Marie Photography – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
If I had to pick a specific type of photography that I specialize in, wedding and lifestyle photographer seems most fitting. Couple photoshoots are a favorite of mine! Whether it be a proposal, wedding, or just because two people love each other- it is a special moment for them captured in time and that is valuable. I enjoy taking photos of whatever comes my way, so the range of subjects I’ve had varies. From pet pigs portraits to music venue events, I’ll be your girl! Marketing myself as being available for travel has brought many exciting adventures in my career so far, and I hope to continue to provide that to my clients. My passion is to capture life’s emotions through my lens and I enjoy every opportunity to do just that.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
Pinterest for inspo and quickbooks to stay organized.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alexmarie.photography
- Phone: 910-554-4678
- Email: photo.alexmarie@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexxmariephoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photo.alexmarie/
Image Credit:
Alex Marie Photography
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