Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Tranbarger.
Hi Alyssa, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I consider myself to be a mostly self-taught photographer; I’ve been running around with a camera for what feels like my entire life. I’ve always enjoyed dressing up with my friends to go out and take pictures, and the fact that I now get to do this for a living is incredibly rewarding. I would have never dreamt that I’d get to where I am today. As far as my professional experience, I started to get serious about photography within the last 5 years. I started out taking photos for my college marching band, and then toured with a Texas drum corps taking photos for the entire summer in 2019. Friends of mine would hire me for headshots or graduation photos, and I started to gain interest in styled shoots but had no idea where to begin. It’s only been within the last year, though, that I’ve focused strictly on creative portraits and fashion editorial shoots, and that’s what truly lights my soul on fire the most.
I am so, so thankful for social media because it’s been the most useful tool to connect me with other creatives and grow my business. It’s the easiest way for me to put my work out there, introduce myself to models and stylists, and coordinate shoot ideas. I’ve made some of my closest friends because of Instagram! I am so grateful for the Dallas community because I’ve received nothing but positive encouragement and inspiration from the people in my circle.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge for me was finding my place in the photo industry. Sometimes I still feel like I haven’t done that. As I was starting out, I put myself into any situation that would get me experience behind the camera. I shot live music shows, graduation photos, families, weddings, headshots, and events. It definitely helped me gain perspective on what each of those environments or “niches” looked like and whether or not I enjoyed shooting that. The more time went on, the more I “niched down” to now focus only on creative portraits. If you focus on one niche, clients will come specifically to you because they like the style or aesthetic that only you have – they can’t get that from anyone else. In the past, I’ve struggled heavily with imposter syndrome and comparing myself to other photographers, and I’ve learned many times over that comparison is the thief of joy. Every artist has a unique perspective to offer the world and accepting that no one else can do my photography exactly like I can has boosted my confidence immensely. I’m definitely not at a point in my career where I feel like I’ve “made it,” but I’m very proud of the progress I’ve made and I’m excited for the future ahead.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in creative portrait photography and fashion editorial shoots. I find so much enjoyment in creating a concept and watching an entire vision come to life. I draw a lot of inspiration from music and art, and lately, I’ve been really into watching runway shows from designers like Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent to get inspiration for outfits. My goal has always been to create a memorable experience and nurture self-love through photography. I’ve watched so many clients come in front of the camera shy and unsure of themselves, and then they leave the session feeling empowered and confident. Seeing that happen over and over again is so fulfilling.
I’m most proud of the journey, for sure. While there’s been challenges along the way, I wouldn’t have had it any other way and I know I’m most happy when I’m creating.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
TRY EVERYTHING. Take your camera everywhere. Put yourself out there, go to photo meetups, talk to people, message models in your community. Learn as much as you can and completely immerse yourself in your craft.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alyssatranbargerphotography.com
- Instagram: @alyssatranbargerphoto
Image Credits
Alyssa Tranbarger
