Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Harris.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alex. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up in Mississippi where having fun required lots of creativity and a vivid imagination. I remember hearing stories of people traveling the world and thinking why can’t that be me? At age 22 I remember taking my first plane ride and being frightened to death lol. Fast forward a few years later and I found myself on a plane almost weekly. I traveled like crazy for about two years straight and when I looked back I had very little to show for it. I made a vow to start better documenting my experiences and that’s what prompted me to buy my first camera. Over time I quickly became the friend that knew how to capture the best pics – no shade haha.
As life’s responsibilities started to mount and travel became less frequent, I decided to use my camera more while at home. It started with me asking friends to model for me and that’s when I got the photography bug. I was so nervous when I booked my first “real” photoshoot that I kept telling myself to play it cool they’ll never know. My first shoot went well but I knew then like I know now that it would take a lot more practice to perfect my craft. I made a goal of booking 4 photoshoots a month by any means necessary to help build my skillset and portfolio. I still have a long way to go but looking back on where I started and the progress I have made gives me a great deal of hope.
Has it been a smooth road?
No, but I believe there is beauty in the struggle. Many of my obstacles, in the beginning, were a result of not putting in the required amount of practice to be ready for a shoot. I have missed some amazing shots by spending too much time trying to adjust my settings on the fly. I remember once standing on top of a table for a photo op only for my battery to die right before I snapped the picture. I never knew how long one minute was until I had 15 women staring at me trying to hold a smile while becoming visibly more impatient. These situations have taught me the true value of preparation. Things won’t always go my way but having a backup plan will ensure I’m not caught off guard. Other obstacles have been a result of being new in the field of many professionals. To put things into perspective, I used to feel like the new barber always waiting on someone to take a chance on me. When it comes to photography these days, people have a tendency of judging the quality of your work based on the quantity of your social media followers. A short term goal of mine is to become more active using social media as a platform to showcase my work.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I provide photo and videography services primarily in the DFW area. At this point, I do not consider myself a specialist in any type of photography because I truly do enjoy it all. My favorite thing about the process is seeing the smile on my client’s face when I show them what we have captured together. No matter what the occasion is, my clients rely on me to capture a specific moment in time that will live on forever. What I am known for most is the patient approach I take with each interaction. We live in a busy world with everything moving at a rapid pace which can heighten an already stressful situation. I have found that if I take my time it puts everyone at ease and results in higher quality work. What I am proud of most is the positive feedback I have received not only on my work itself but my professionalism. It can be a struggle juggling multiple responsibilities so I use that feedback as fuel to keep pushing. What will continue to set me apart is my willingness to learn and grow. One of my favorite books talks about the 10,000-hour rule. In order to further set myself apart I will put in the required amount of practice to perfect my craft.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I expect the next decade in professional photography to experience significant growth. Social media has created endless opportunities for users to build empires and connect with like-minded people from all over the world. There is a huge focus on providing high-quality content, especially for entrepreneurs and influencers. While camera phones are providing higher quality images each year, I do not feel they will replace the experience provided by professional photographers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shotsbyaharris.pixieset.com
- Email: shotsbyaharris@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shotsbyaharris/
Image Credit:
@shotsbyaharris
@aharrismba
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