Conversations with Alexxis Shemel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexxis Shemel.

Alexxis, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My interest in photography started when I was very young. I remember taking disposable film cameras on field trips in school and later using a cell phone to try to get pictures – of course, none of those photos turned out great.

Later in high school, I finally got a DSLR. It was a Canon Rebel T5 with the kit lenses. I grew up in a small town in Washington State surrounded by the ocean. I loved landscape photos and tried to capture the beauty of the areas I went to. I took photos on family road trips, photos of the mountains, and photos of my friends. I ended up taking my senior photos as well as photos for a couple of my friends.

I went off to college in Arizona to study Environmental Studies. Going to a small liberal arts college meant lots of opportunities for studies in the field and lots of travel. I continued to snap photos. I did photo shoots with friends on campus and off. I traveled to Mexico and later studied in Norway, creating a photo journal along the way.

After a few years of only shooting photos every once in a while, I decided it was time to turn my passion into a part-time business. I have shifted much of my photography towards sharing people’s stories. I specialize in portraits, engagement photos, and family photos. Aside from portraits, I have been enjoying trying out concert photography and look forward to growing further in that business.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I just started my formal business in August of this year. It has been quite challenging. Having no background in running a business or marketing has made it a struggle to gain clients.

Luckily, I have had friends and family allow me to take photos. Aside from the slow growth, starting up has been a little expensive. I have been slowly adding camera equipment to my collection to ensure I will have what is needed as my business grows.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
When not working my full-time job, I enjoy many aspects of the arts. Photography is a part-time job for me but has been a passion for a long time. While my family may know me for landscape and nature photos, I enjoy taking photos of people.

My business specializes in quality portraits, engagement, and family photos. Aside from trying to be an affordable option, I think what sets me apart is my willingness to go on an adventure with you for the photos you want. I enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind taking a long hike if it means beautiful memories for any of my photo clients.

It is also not uncommon to see me lying on the ground to get the right angle.

What are your plans for the future?
Right now, I’m just looking forward to where the business takes me. I continue to try to increase my knowledge and skills. I do hope to get into the concert photography scene a little more this winter.

Pricing:

• $125 Mini Photo Session (1/2 hour)
• $200 Regular Photo Session (1 hour)
• $350 Full Photo Session (2 hours)

Contact Info:

• Website: tsugasnapshots.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsugasnapshots/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tsugasnapshots