Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Morris.

Hi Andrea, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Photography has been a part of my life since I was a teenager. Whether it was taking photographs of my mom’s garden or taking photo breaks between classes in college, photography was always a consistent source of joy. In July 2018, I began Apis Photography. My business grew as I grew, and I dove headfirst into every style of photography. It wasn’t until I moved to Portland, OR in 2021 that I fell into my favorite niche – photography specifically for small businesses, creatives, and entrepreneurs.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I do not believe in smooth roads! Life is messy, and that is what makes the upswings even more grand. When we moved from Indiana to Oregon, I specifically remember researching all of the photographers in Portland, and my heart sank. Seeing the quality of their work made me question if I would ever be able to have a career as a photographer in a city filled with so many talented artists. But just like everything in life – you have to start somewhere. I started with only a few clients, grew (and continue to grow everyday) with my technique, and found the best community of artists who graciously took me under their wing. The challenges are always present as a creative and entrepreneur, but they help you to evolve in the best way.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a photographer and owner of the business, Apis Photography. In my business, I specialize in working with small businesses. This can include food and drink, retail space, product, and portrait photography. Small businesses are the heart of a community, and it is a privilege to capture their stories and products.

To me, I am most proud of creating a business that aligns with my values. I believe fully in work-life balance, learning from others, and putting community over competition (always!). I feel proud that these values impact my business decisions on a daily basis.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The list is never-ending! I am surrounded by the most supportive humans, and here is my best attempt to summarize their greatness.

Family – I come from a family of creatives and empaths, and this feeds the “soul” of my work. My family has instilled the importance of staying true to yourself, and being a good human in your community.

Community – I may be biased, but I have the best community of creatives. This community shares techniques with each other, spreads the word about each others services, collaborates together, and cries (or laughs) when challenges arise.

My Husband and Friends – They are the ultimate cheerleaders! This group of humans has been essential in giving me the balance that I value so highly, cheering me on when the business has challenges, and providing all of the laughs in order to maintain perspective in life.

Contact Info:

• Website: apisphotography.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apis.photography

Image Credits
Personal Headshot by Hannah Bernabe at HB Photos