We were lucky to catch up with Bianca Alexis recently and have shared our conversation below.

Bianca, appreciate you joining us today. How has Covid changed your business model?

The advent of COVID-19 marked a pivotal turning point in my career, significantly altering the trajectory of my business model. Prior to the pandemic, my schedule was a vibrant tapestry of creative shoots, full-time work, and freelance projects, with new ideas and clients continuously enriching my professional journey. However, as the pandemic brought the world to a standstill, it also paused the momentum of my career, leading to a period of introspection and recalibration.

In the initial phase of the lockdown, there was a surge of creativity within me, manifesting in self-portraits and an exploration into the realms of cocktail and food photography. Yet, this burst of artistic expression was transient, fading as the reality of the pandemic’s longevity set in. This period of uncertainty and the subsequent stagnation of my creative outlets prompted a profound reassessment of my professional path.

Acknowledging my limitations, particularly in marketing my craft—a skill I admittedly struggled with—I decided to embark on a transformative journey by pursuing an associate degree in marketing. This decision, though fraught with anxiety and challenges, was driven by the recognition that to thrive in a post-pandemic world, I needed to equip myself with the tools and knowledge to effectively showcase my work and engage with a broader audience.

Returning to academia, especially after having obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Photography from Pratt Institute, was both a humbling and empowering experience. The transition was not without its difficulties; the initial semesters were marked by panic attacks and a steep learning curve. However, as I delved deeper into the marketing discipline, I found solace and strength in the newfound knowledge, gradually gaining confidence in my ability to navigate the complexities of self-promotion and brand positioning.

The adage “knowledge is power,” though often deemed cliché, resonated profoundly with me during this period of growth and adaptation. I realized that to remain relevant and competitive, one must be willing to continuously invest in learning and evolving, even in the most fundamental aspects of one’s craft. This commitment to education and self-improvement has not only been beneficial for my psyche but has also laid the foundation for a more robust and resilient business model.

In embracing this journey of reinvention, I have learned that change, while daunting, is an integral part of personal and professional development. The pandemic, despite its challenges, provided me with the impetus to reassess my approach, adapt to the changing landscape, and emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. As I continue to navigate this new chapter, I remain committed to refining my skills, expanding my knowledge, and exploring innovative ways to connect with my audience and clients in a post-COVID world.

Bianca, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As an alumnus of Pratt Institute, my journey into the realms of photography and retouching began in 2001, marking the inception of a career that would span decades. Currently, I am employed at Scholastic, where my role oscillates between that of a retoucher and, on occasions, a photographer. Despite the demands of my primary occupation, I fervently engage in freelance photography projects during weekends and post-work hours, demonstrating a relentless commitment to my craft.

My specialization primarily lies in portraiture, a field in which I have honed my skills and developed a distinctive style over the years. However, the unforeseen circumstances brought about by the pandemic compelled me to diversify my portfolio, leading me to explore the niche of cocktail photography. This expansion not only reflects my adaptability but also my willingness to evolve in response to changing market dynamics.

The post-pandemic landscape has undoubtedly presented challenges, with a significant reshuffling of clients and a noticeable shift in industry trends. Recognizing the need to adapt and reposition my brand, I embarked on a journey to further my education in marketing, currently pursuing an associate’s degree. This endeavor has already started bearing fruit, enhancing my understanding of market strategies and personal branding.

Collaboration lies at the heart of my professional ethos. I firmly believe that no project is too insignificant, and the fulfillment derived from client satisfaction is immeasurable. My portfolio is a testament to this belief, showcasing a diverse range of projects from capturing the essence of a designer from the county of Georgia to the whimsicality of libbed sticky notes and tarot cards.

I am most proud of the partnerships I’ve forged and the mutual growth these collaborations have fostered. As I navigate through this phase of rebranding and market re-entry, my focus remains on delivering unparalleled quality and capturing the unique essence of each subject, ensuring that every client’s vision is brought to life with the utmost fidelity.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, I extend an invitation to explore the depth of my work and the passion that drives it. My commitment to excellence, combined with a continuous pursuit of learning and adaptation, sets me apart in a saturated industry. I look forward to crafting visual narratives that resonate, connect, and leave a lasting impact.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

While many might share stories of their side hustles blossoming into full-time careers, my journey with photography remains a cherished side pursuit. I’ve been with my current company for 15 years, where the stability, benefits, and positive work environment allow me to nurture my passion for photography without the pressure of making it my primary source of income. This dual path ensures that I can continue to engage with my photography with freedom and creativity.

I remain open to the possibility of photography becoming a full-time endeavor if circumstances change, but for now, it remains a fulfilling side hustle. This approach allows me to focus on growth and improvement without the burnout that often accompanies the rush to meet societal milestones. Reflecting on my work from 5 to 10 years ago, I can see my continuous development as an artist. I draw inspiration from artists who found recognition later in life, reminding me that the journey is as significant as the destination.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I’ve always been someone who wears their heart on their sleeve, driven by a deep passion for various subjects, and I never shy away from making bold business decisions. In the past, I would often react impulsively to situations. However, I’ve learned the importance of conducting thorough research and not jumping to conclusions about potential business opportunities. I’ve come to understand that sometimes things don’t align perfectly, and relationships with clients can take time to develop—sometimes even years. Patience and persistence have been key, allowing me to gradually build these relationships. Effective communication has also been crucial. I’ve learned to ask as many questions as possible about a project, even those that might seem trivial, to ensure that everything is clear and there’s no room for assumptions.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.biancaalexis.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/biancaalexisphoto
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-alexis-96250234/