I’m Alysha, and I am a new photographer in Norfolk, VA.

Getting photographed can be a vulnerable experience for some. Knowing your photographer creates for a more comfortable experience. I don’t want to be a stranger to you! This is my story (in short).

I spent a lot of time in the art room during high school. If I wasn’t running I was drawing, painting, or taking photos with my free time. To my surprise I had enough jobs to start a small business at 16. This encouraged my decision to go to college for photography. The creative part came naturally, but the technical part would be a journey of learning. I worked hard, won several awards, and lived outside my comfort zone.

I look up to photographers like Nigel Barker and Annie Leibovitz. Originally I went for commercial photography with a desire to pursue high fashion and editorial.  It’s the very reason why I left Iowa to move to Nashville after finishing school and saving some money. I found out no one had built a high fashion or editorial portfolio in the school I was attending. My professors encouraged me but said I’d basically be on my own for that. I was happy to be the first. On graduation they gave me the “heart and soul award.” I did several collaborations and walked down that road for a while, and I still have a passion for that style!! Part of why I loved it is that I thrived off of doing things different. It felt like that world created more space for it.

Over time, it seemed like I unintentionally gravitated towards couples and weddings. After gaining some experience (and I was grateful for the opportunities at a young age) I found myself really enjoying it! I intentionally incorporated the creativity I wanted in that kind of photography. Back then things were a lot more traditional so doing it different was rare. I’ve found most people are down to try unique and fun things if you just ask! I don’t know what it is about photographing love, but as a photographer it does something to you haha. It’s an inspiring thing to be apart of.

I would say I’m a visual learner. The camera has taught me to see people, to wait, and catch moments that I would never have found significance in. Creativity has trained me to break tradition and rules. Getting the moments that carry weight or feel alive is art to me. You have to go the extra mile for that, and you MUST be present. If I couldn’t feel the photo, there wasn’t depth. A pretty picture is just a pretty picture, just like a pretty face is just a pretty face. Depth is what’s authentic and truly beautiful. That’s what I’m drawn to in life and I carry that into my shoots. 

Photography has connected me with several talented people that have challenged me. I also have found it’s been an avenue I can bless people in. One day I’d be planning an idea with a model, the next shooting a fashion show, to then heading over to the projects to do a single mom’s makeup and take some photos with her kids. Who would have thought using my camera could have such a big impact. I am the type of person that seeks out greater purpose. I’m not motivated by money but by love. Everyone should recognize their unique and individual beauty. It’s the best feeling to have someone look at themselves and feel confident and seen. Maybe it’s because there was a time I struggled with my identity and loving myself. I want people to know how great and beautiful they are. I’m aware that there is more to people and many feel unseen in a lot of ways. Growing up I have spent a good amount of time in hospitals battling with ulcerative colitis. I have often felt unseen, and I believe people are designed to be seen and known.

I’ve been involved with various creative teams. I think having a team of people is fun, yet humbling! I want to build another one here in Norfolk, VA! Collaborations expand you as an artist, and they are necessary. I have had the privilege to teach basic fundamentals in photography as well as learn from other photographers, makeup artists, models, painters, musicians etc. The three worlds I dabbled in (if you want to call them that) were first the fashion world, wedding, and then unexpectedly church. They all impacted me deeply and I cherish all the experiences and seasons. One of my personal convictions as an artist is that truth is the foundation for everything. Creativity flows from wisdom. If you don’t know who you are you actually can’t authentically create, and if it’s not done in love what does it really even mean? Creativity is powerful, and it’s meant to carry purpose. All that to say yes, I am a believer. It’s been one of the most life changing things to know and learn from the Creator. 

There was a season in my life where I focused more on pouring into other people’s success. I caught an entrepreneur spirit and learned that life is about more than yourself. Success is adding value to people. If you want to grow and go further, you need to build and pass on. Relationships are what life is about. In meeting my husband, we had common ground when it came to photography. Our experiences, styles, and niches are completely different. However, this is to our advantage. After getting married, I moved to Norfolk. This year we officially launched  DNA Studios! Together we have a lot to offer for this community. Our goal is to take photos that are timeless not trendy; creative yet technically accurate and proficient; as well as cultivate a fun and confident experience for people.

This year I’m looking forward to doing more weddings! Be on the look out! Can’t wait to share the stories. If you are in search of a photographer in this field, I’m interested in getting to know you and hearing about your vision. I’m also available to answer any questions you may have. 

Want to learn more about DNA Studios? Connect with us! https://dnastudios.art/contact/