Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda James.
Hi Amanda, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
“Hi, thanks for having me! I started out as a typical SCAD student, loving art and Savannah. I graduated from SCAD with a BFA in Photography and decided to try the big city. I moved to NYC to work as an intern with a food photographer about a year after graduation. As much as I loved food photography, when the internship ended I decided to stay in NY and work as a freelance photo assistant in order to explore other specialties. It was through freelance assisting I found my passion for Interior Photography. After a few years of assisting, I honed my computer skills and became a digital tech. A couple of years after that, I began photographing my own projects.”
Then, in 2017 I had family move to Savannah which spurred my interest in starting to split my time between NYC and Savannah. I loved my time in Savannah while I attended SCAD, therefore when given the opportunity to share my time there as a professional, I jumped at the chance and began promoting my work in the south as well as the north.
Alright, 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?
Starting your own business is never truly a smooth road. When I first began photography I did not know a single person in the industry in NY and I was unsure which specialty within photography I wanted to pursue. Therefore, I used what I learned in my SCAD business class and began researching and cold calling/emailing any photographer whose work I found online that I admired regardless of the specific type of photography it was.
A few struggles along the way were trying to earn steady money in order to make my way in NYC and find clients who understood the value of photography and didn’t try to take advantage of my “newness” by undervaluing and underpaying me. I began making friends in the industry and eventually started working part-time as a studio manager for a product photographer in order to have some steady income while continuing to freelance in search of my passion.
About a year or two into assisting I started working with a resort photographer who took me under his wing and helped me find my love for interior/architectural photography. The connections and friends I have made during my journey have helped me significantly steer my career in the direction I want.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an independent photographer who specializes in Interior/Architectural photography as well as Food. I lean towards a more editorial aesthetic, lighting my images to mimic the beauty of natural light. As a very detail-oriented individual, I understand the importance of being thorough and how even the slightest change can affect an image.
I combine my professional knowledge with my creative eye to capture captivating imagery. I have had the privilege of photographing for Interior Designers, Architects, Resorts, Hotels, and Magazines.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The combination of persistence, determination, attention to detail, and being open and friendly are all important and have contributed to my success.
It is important to never give up on your dreams and always remember to be kind and friendly as no one wants to work with someone they don’t like and you never know who you are going to meet. As in every business, building and fostering relationships is very important.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.amandajamesphoto.com
- Instagram: @amandajamesphoto
