Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anthony Anastasi. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Anthony , appreciate you joining us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

Nobody wants a full time job. They suck. That’s why I’ve deciated my whole life to avoiding a 9-5 and been quite successful. The only full time job I’ve ever had was working for Milk Studios, which is really the exception to the rule, and to me more of a masterclass in photography than a job. Granted, being a freelance worker / running your own business is stressful; there’s no guarantees, no consolation prizes, and nobody to blame when things don’t pan ou but yourself. But at the end of the day, I’m will ing to accept the risks associated with being fully independent in exchange for my freedom and autonomy as a human and an artist.

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

I’ve been in love with photography since my first class in highschool, back when film processing was still the norm and I’d print physical photos. After graduation I attend San Francisco State to study Photojournalism. I went in as an idealized youth wanting to expose big business and corrupt politicians, then came out disillusioned that journalism itself a corrupt propaganda machine designed to push certain agendas; nothing I wanted to participate in. When I moved back to Southern California I was drawn to studio photography because it allowed me to express myself and create any world I could imagine, and that was ultimately what made me happy. So I bought some budget gear, did a million test shoots, and eventually ended up with a decent portfolio. I then had the confidence to launch my own business and been running full speed toward building my brand since. I’ve dabbled in fashion, editorial, and beauty work, but my bread and butter has been portraiture / headshots. No, I’m not taking down horrible institutions or bringing justice to the world, but I’d like to think I’m making a small difference in individuals lives by providing something to help further their career and pursue their dreams.

Do you have multiple revenue streams – if so, can you talk to us about those streams and how your developed them?

In addition to my personal photo ventures I also work as a photo / production assistant on a range stills shoots, primarily for apparel brands. I thank my lucky stars for the oppurtunnity as it complements my lifestyle and personal work. I get to work along side high level artist, oversee their workflow and techniques, then bring that knowledge back my my studio. It’s the best!

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

People. It never ceases to amaze me how willing people are to give advice and guidance along your journey if you just ask. Being independent is a great characteristic to have, but being humble and recognizing how much can be gleaned from others is important as well.

Contact Info:

• Website: anastasiphoto.com
• Instagram: @anastasi.photo
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/anastasi-photography/

Image Credits
Anthony Anastasi