Today we’d like to introduce you to Ari Talton.
Ari, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Writing has always been my passion. When I write, I don’t feel like I should be doing anything else. Storytelling and journalism provided me a great platform back in high school. The more I wrote, however, the more I realized just how many visual learners are around me. I became curious about creating visuals that would compliment my words. So, I picked up a camera…
I’ve been a gadget girl for most of my life, but ten years ago I bought my first DSLR camera. On Easter Sunday of 2008, I photographed my younger cousins as they played in my grandfather’s backyard. I “played” on some editing software and then shared a few images on my Facebook page.
People asked: “how much do you charge?”
I began studying photography. I upgraded my equipment. I did several free shoots to practice. I studied nonstop. I posted more pictures. Completely frightened, I photographed my uncle’s wedding all alone. He and his fiance’s engagement pictures (my first engagement shoot) were posted in the church foyer. People asked for my business cards. My family encouraged me to pursue the business venture. While my name is Ariawna, most people have always called me Ari. My uncle has always called me “Miss Ari…”
And then came “Miss Ari Photography.”
Has it been a smooth road?
Photographers are always trying to reinvent ourselves. A new software is always developed. We can never learn every single technique. Equipment is not cheap.
Out of the thousands of clients, I’ve photographed, maybe a few have tried to “talk me down” on prices. I’ve been extremely fortunate to earn people’s respect and to have repeat clients. People know that I’m fair and I credit my longevity to treating all sessions with the utmost importance.
I began as a sports journalist. In college, I was typically the only woman and the only black person on staff. Many times, I’m still the only female in the mix of male photographers. I wouldn’t call this an obstacle, but I’ve definitely had to assert myself.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
There is nothing that I haven’t photographed – NOTHING.
In my 10th year, I find myself most engaged in portraiture, events, sports, graduate sessions and child photography. After a bad car wreck in 2016, my doctor and I decided that the demands of wedding photography may not be best for me physically. After shooting dozens of weddings, I retired from that portion of the industry.
I’m probably most known for lifestyle photography. I meet people in their respective element and capture their essence. I’m extremely proud of myself for managing my time well. During the day, I’m a high school teacher. After school, I average one shoot per afternoon and then work on feature stories for the Dallas Weekly. I still have my client’s products ready for pick up within five to seven days.
Most clients tell me that I make them feel comfortable. We have fun. While I take business very seriously, I want the experience to be memorable. There is no turning off my personality.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Dallas has been good to me because I haven’t been afraid to show Dallas who I am and what I have to offer.
No, this is not the concrete jungle like New York. No, Dallas is not Hollywood. BUT, there is an opportunity here. I travel quite often, but I have no plans to move away from the city. There are so many corners and crevices of this large city – “creatives” just can’t be afraid to collaborate.
I would say starting out in Dallas can be challenging if you make the mistake of watching what others do. There are so many photographers in the city, but there is room for anyone who will do business the right way and treat clients fairly.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.themissariphotos.com
- Phone: 469-855-2118
- Email: MissAriPhotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: MissAri_Photos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Miss-Ari-Photography-128090723871825/
Image Credit:
Ariawna “Ari” Talton
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