In an interview with Annika Alexandra, founder of Annika Alexandra Photography, she shared the fascinating journey that led her to establish her thriving business. Drawing upon her experience working for a matchmaking service in Los Angeles, Annika noticed a common thread among clients: poorly curated photos that did little justice to their personalities and potential. Determined to address this gap, she embarked on a freelance venture, offering her photography skills to multiple matchmaking services. With a keen eye for capturing authentic moments and a passion for helping clients present their best selves, Annika’s venture quickly gained traction. What began as a solution to a prevalent problem evolved into Annika Alexandra Photography, a sought-after service renowned for its ability to showcase individuals in their best light. Through her dedication to quality and a commitment to highlighting the essence of her subjects, Annika has not only built a successful business but has also played a pivotal role in enhancing the online presence and dating prospects of countless individuals.
Can you share with us the journey that led you to start Annika Alexandra Photography?
I loved taking photos since I was a teenager. I used so many throwaway cameras, I don’t even think they all got developed!
What inspired you to venture into this field?
When I moved out to Los Angeles, I dabbled in the acting industry. I always felt my comfortable behind the camera than in front of it. I started taking classes, youtube and learning from other photographers. I loved (and still do) racing home after a shoot and seeing the images I’ve captured of my clients!
What was the moment or experience that made you realize the importance of quality photography, especially in the context of matchmaking services?
As well as working at a matchmaking service, I would participate in online dating. For your dating profile you should have a closeup photo, full body photo, should not be wearing sunglasses, it should be a recent photo, preferably you alone so your potential match doesn’t have to guess who you are, and none with ex’s! Clients would pass on these type of photos all of them and it would frustrate us matchmakers.
Could you describe a pivotal moment or challenge you faced when starting your photography business? How did you overcome it?
I think it is just getting your business in the public eye. There are a lot of photographers in the Los Angeles area so it is a competitive market. I started off just taking photos of my friends to have something to put on my social media/website. I think a key factor is to continuously market yourself, work on getting better/learning new editing techniques. Reach out every once in awhile to previous clients with different promotions throughout the year. I love when old clients reach out for another shoot or they recommend me to their friends. It is a true compliment!
What unique perspective or approach do you bring to your photography, particularly in the realm of capturing images for matchmaking purposes?
A lot of clients are nervous/shy for this of a kind of photoshoot, which is normal. I just try to relate to them/listen to their story and I encourage them by mentioning I met my husband through online dating. I just want them to relax and have fun!
In a world where image is increasingly important, how do you navigate the responsibility of capturing authentic moments while also ensuring your clients are presented in the best light possible?
The majority of my favorite photos are the candid moment ones. I love the small moment where a kid may be acting super silly or when adults are just playing with their kids. A photo doesn’t have to be everyone stiffly posed staring at the camera.
If you could offer one piece of advice to aspiring photographers or entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses, what would it be?
Never give up, there will be hard times, starting out as a business, finding the clients, profiting right away, etc. In the long term, it will pay off and you can be proud of yourself for building your business to what is has become!
You can find more info on Annika’s work here:
https://www.annikaalexandraphotography.com
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