Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Harris.
Melissa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Since I was a kid, I always knew that I wanted to be an artist. I even found an old letter that I wrote when I was in second grade talking about it! I loved having the freedom to be creative with every project I was assigned.
In high school, I took a photojournalism class, and that’s when I fell in love. I enjoyed writing feature stories, learning how to conduct interviews with people and attaching photos to the spreads. I know, I’m such a dork. In college, I originally studied Journalism and then my path changed over to Photography.
The Photography program at the University of North Texas was the most beneficial experience that I could have had to begin my career. It was really important to me that I learn of new perspectives from others, and as painful as the critiques may have been, they were indeed advantageous in helping me abound as an artist.
I am a portrait photographer. I love spending time with people, they are all so interesting to me. Whether it be a wedding, family portrait, or a special event at my church, I love getting to know the people and their stories within my photos.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth journey at all, and I appreciate it all that much more. How have I gotten through it? My Faith in God is the only answer I can give. I struggle with comparing myself to other photographers constantly, which ultimately does nothing besides obstructing the perspective of my own work.
There are so many talented photographers out there, and I have to remind myself that I am one of those people too. The Lord created me with my own vision and gifts, not anyone else’s. You can’t try to be someone else because you have to master being you.
I have also struggled with patience because I want everything right now such as lenses, equipment, endless amount of clientele and my own studio space. I know I will have it one day because I refuse to forfeit the desire.
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
Portrait photography. The one thing I believe I am best known for is portrait photography. I have a passion for people as I have stated before. There is just something about the revelation of their journey that captures my attention and is the anchor of my work.
My photography means more to me than just creating a captivating image. I strive to tell a story, I want the viewer’s mind to be aroused with curiosity, to be as interested in the image as I am the person. One of the many things I take pride in, besides my work, of course, is delivery.
I do whatever it takes to ensure that what my clients receive from me is nothing short of my best. I believe, what separates me from others, isn’t necessarily staggeringly unique.
What sets me apart, is the genuine love I have for human beings and that is what I do my best to capture.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I have always worked in customer service. The most important thing that I’ve learned and applied to my own business is to be personable and provide exceptional service for your clients.
I value the relationships that I have gained from my photography sessions and am grateful to know that all of my clients have been recommendations. I owe my success to the many years of knowledge gained by working with people and providing the best experience possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.melissaharrisportfolio.com
- Email: melissaharrisportfolio@gmail.com
- Instagram: portfolioharris
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portfolioHarris/
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