We were lucky to catch up with Qway Sharp recently and have shared our conversation below.

Qway, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What do you think it takes to be successful?

I think consistency is the key to any success story. Consistently practicing, consistently learning, consistently growing and consistently finding ways to reach your audience. I’ve made more money in the first 2 quarters of this year than I did all year last year because I’ve stayed consistent.

Learning to perfect your craft is also very important. Like Deon Sanders said “Don’t chase money, change greatness. . . greatness doesn’t come just because of the money; the money comes because of the greatness.”

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Qway! I work as a freelance portrait & event photographer, servicing the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area. I’ve been shooting since high school but really invested a ton of time into my craft beginning of 2020.

I specialize in portrait photography i.e. family and maternity, business, branding, lifestyle, fashion, and special events but am not limited too.

Being able to bring joy to my clients by freezing moments in time is the best part about what I do. From the babies in Moms belly, to newborn, to 1 year, birthdays and Christmas photos is so special. I love seeing the evolution within my clients and their families.

I am a natural looking portrait enthusiast and care the most about creating a clean look within my work. I’ve been able to meet and be apart of so many great things behind the lens and look forward to meeting and seeing more.

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

I had to learn to stop comparing myself to others and that everyone’s journey is different. Art is subjective and meant to be created not compared.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Being consistent with the kind of content you post brings in a particular kind of client. I think it’s important to have a good foundation and to find your niche so that you can appeal to the audience you’re trying to reach.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.photosbyqway.com
• Instagram: @photosbyqway
• Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/photos-by-qway-alexandria-2