Today we’d like to introduce you to Alisa Brooks.
Alisa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was nine years old when I first picked up a camera. My birthday was near, and I knew that my mom had bought me a gift. So, like any other curious child, I completely dug through our apartment searching for it while my parents were at work. Eventually, I stumbled upon… a box holding an old circa 1949 camera with several lenses. Its name was Praktica. Finding the camera was a life-changing accident and much better than my intended present- which was actually a Barbie doll. Finding the camera was a life-changing accident and much better than my intended present. Later, I would learn that this camera belonged to my grandmother who was working as a photographer in the USSR!
I was drawn to macro and landscaping photography. Over the next three years, I spent hours bending over (thanks to a manual focus and my poor vision) my cacti at home or in the forest over mushrooms while being eaten alive by mosquitos. I had no clue what I was doing! However, despite my lack of knowledge of cameras, film, etc. I won a few photo competitions held at our local schools.
Later, when I was 18, my parents gifted me my first ever DSLR Sony alpha 100. It was a gift for entering law school on a scholarship. Luckily, a good friend of mine was renting a photo studio in a large Russian television building. So, of course, I spent all of my free time observing him taking headshots of local actors and actresses and had gained more interest in studio photography. I was inspired! The positioning of light boxes, umbrellas, and multiple backdrops was fascinating and artistic to me. Energized by all of this I enrolled in a photography academy. Because I had law school during the day, my photography classes were on nights and weekends. My camera became my sidekick – it went everywhere with me. I loved shooting maternity photo sessions inspired by the famous naked Demi Moore one (it was a big deal at the time). Unfortunately being a photographer in Moscow Russia in 2007 wasn’t bringing in a lot of income. Because I was top ranked in law school, and convinced by my parents, I gave up my passion for photography and concentrated on my law degree.
That was ten years ago. Now, after having my beautiful baby boy and purchasing a new camera it is clear that my passion has stayed with me all this time. I have Instagram and many talented photographers to thank for inspiring me to start my photography career again. I now live in beautiful Arizona, where every day is worth photographing. Inspiration can be found in every corner. I love working with people… to capture their true emotions and the cherished moments they want to remember forever. Whether it is a graduation, engagement, maternity, anniversary, or other special occasions, I get to relive these emotions again and again at every photo session.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting your own business is always a bumpy process but you have to stick with it no matter what. Do not let other people scare you away from your passions and dreams. My journey wasn’t easy, but all-in-all it was a pleasant ride. Sometimes, I look back to myself in 2007 and think what if? What if I did not give up photography due to a fear of failing? What if I did not give in to my parent’s wishes to choose a stable high paying job that I didn’t love? There are many what-ifs! But, being the optimist I am, I truly believe that these ten years have helped me to become who I am today. I have tried many different professions, and all of them have given me something that I can use today. My law career made me consistent and relentless in pursuing my goals. My former stylist profession helps me to see people and consult them on their outfit choices. My sales expertise helps me to give the best possible customer service. It may be cliche to say, but it was all meant to be as I found my way back on my true path.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a natural light photographer who focuses on capturing people’s emotions. There are many ‘good’ photographers out there, but with so many available it is even more important to bring something special to the process. I not only capture raw and candid emotions but relive them with my clients in a way that they will cherish forever. I truly care for my clients and am grateful to now call many of them friends. If you find yourself in a photo session with me, I promise you a memorable and unique experience.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Listen to your heart and believe in yourself. Do not let other people talk you out of what you would love to do as your career. It will be challenging, but life’s challenges make us grow as people. Nothing good happens overnight.
Pricing:
- All my portrait photo sessions start at 197$
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alisabrooksphotography.com/
- Phone: 858 603 4229
- Email: alisabrooksphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisa_brooks_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlisaBrooksPhotography/
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