We were lucky to catch up with Wanyea Robinson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Wanyea, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?

I believe that in the photography and videography industry, many professionals think they need to stay within a specific box or style to succeed. This conventional approach limits creativity and stops people from being seen as unique artists. Unlike most, I believe in stepping out of these boundaries and putting a face to the art—showcasing personal vision and identity. This involves embracing freedom of expression through one’s taste in fashion, personal style, music, and drawing inspiration from other artists. The focus should not just be on capturing the art but on allowing the artist to be visible, recognized, and connected to their work in a way that reflects their diverse influences and individuality.

Through my journey as the artist I’ve become, I always just wanted to be as they say, “a fly on a wall”, but I realized that didn’t help my art be seen. As I found my personal style and influences, I began to stand out amongst other photographers and videographers because I looked like my artwork/ style. I recently landed a fashion project that was featured on the local news from going outside the box at a fashion show a few years ago, whereas the same photographers still in that space are repeating the same cycle of hoping their work is seen. Meanwhile, I somewhat put myself in the shoes of prospect clients I would want to work with. The phrase, “be comfortable with being uncomfortable,” is a daily affirmation and that applies to us because we sometimes have to pivot to either make money or just for our work to be seen in spaces we want to be in.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey in the photography and videography industry began in 2019, rooted in the world of film photography. I chose to start there because I wanted to master the delicate art of storytelling through a single image before moving into the complexity of film. Each frame became a lesson in emotion, narrative, and detail. In 2021, my path evolved when I partnered with a designer who reshaped my understanding of what it means to thrive in this industry. It was through that collaboration that I learned the value of authentic networking and how to approach my craft with both technical precision and unwavering confidence.

Today, my work encompasses a wide array of services, from fashion and event photography to corporate and portrait projects, as well as fashion, wedding, event, business, and documentary cinematography. Yet beyond the services I offer, one of my most fulfilling moments was hosting an event that brought together photographers, models, stylists, designers, painters, and music artists—a gathering where creativity could flourish, and new connections could spark. That experience reminded me that the heart of this industry is not just the images but the stories and bonds behind them.

When working with clients, my primary aim is always to tell their story, to create a narrative that is both vivid and honest. What sets my approach apart is my dedication to truly understanding my craft. I delve into the work of artists who came before me, exploring their styles and finding inspiration in their legacy, but I always infuse that knowledge with my own voice and perspective.

Perhaps my proudest achievement has been teaching photography to high school students. Watching them absorb the knowledge, apply it creatively, and even turn their passion into profit has been deeply rewarding. It’s more than teaching a skill; it’s about passing on an art form that will outlast us all and continue to inspire long after we’re gone. For those curious about my work, know that it is driven by a genuine passion for storytelling, an unwavering commitment to authenticity, and the belief that art is at its best when it speaks both to and from the soul.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is using my skills to inspire the younger generation to embrace and express their individuality through art and fashion. There’s something deeply fulfilling about encouraging them to feel free to share what’s inside their minds and hearts without fear of judgment. It’s about nurturing a sense of freedom and creativity that they can carry with them, whether they’re telling their own stories or exploring new ideas.

Additionally, being able to tell my own journey—how I’ve evolved and become who I am today—through my work with clients and my craft is profoundly meaningful. Every project becomes a reflection not just of the stories of those I collaborate with but also a chapter in my own narrative. It’s the intersection of inspiring others and expressing my truth that makes this path so rewarding.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

The story of funding my business is one rooted in perseverance and belief in a vision. When I first set out to build my photography and videography career, I relied on income from my “9-5” jobs—first as a janitor and then as a substitute teacher. Every paycheck was carefully budgeted, with a portion dedicated to investing in essential equipment and tools that would help me build the foundation of my craft. Each lens, camera, and accessory was a step forward, bought with hard-earned money and a clear commitment to turning my passion into a profession.

As time passed, the effort began to bear fruit. I reached a point where my work was sustaining itself enough to cover the essentials I needed for my industry. However, while progress has been made, the business is not yet fully sustainable. Recently, I took a significant step toward elevating my business by obtaining an LLC, which I hope will open doors to bigger projects and partnerships in the future.

This journey has taught me the value of patience, resilience, and investing in oneself, even when starting from humble beginnings. Every stage of funding my business has been a testament to my commitment to growth, not just as an artist but as an entrepreneur striving for something greater.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wnrproductions.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wnrproductions
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/wanyea.robinson.31/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wanyea-robinson-579247242
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1SDzk1hC656c-YIvKQfoJw/videos

Image Credits

Tatyana Diggs- Model
Ayana Sumlin- Model
Madi G- Model in Elmira Vanderberg
Vanessa Neal- Model
Kree Willyumz- Fashion Creative Director
Tim Witcher- Chef
Daymar Brown- Model/Artist
Aaliyah Yasameen- Creative Director/ Model