We were lucky to catch up with Alex Hedley recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alex, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

Definitely instagram/TikTok videos! As a photographer, the last thing I want to do is be in front of a camera, but sometimes, you gotta follow those trends to get exposure.

Alex, 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?

How I got into this industry is definitely not a one way street. I knew I was always interested in drawing, taking photos, and seeing the world. I’ve been drawing since I could remember, from drawing real life-sized lions in art class to sketching out the Opera House in Sydney, Australia during my study abroad trip. Drawing was always a fun outlet for me, but I took a break for a while because I, shocking, didn’t think I was good enough. When I started traveling a ton around college, I got into taking travel photos. Nothing special, I would just borrow my moms DSLR and thought I knew what I was doing! Out of college, I got into Personal Training, and got my first beginner camera on my birthday, so I would take photos of my fitness friends while they worked out. When I backpacked Europe, I took a bunch of landscape photography, and even sold some prints! (I don’t think they were the BEST quality… ha!) After that, I would just take photos of friends and post them onto Instagram or Facebook, then delete the account, then make a new one, etc etc. until 3 years later when COVID hit, I just said F it, and started up my photography account and promised myself to keep it up, and I did.
During COVID I also made a few websites and logos for only 50 dollars(!!!). I knew a bunch of people that had the same mindset as me when COVID hit, and they all wanted to start up their new businesses. That’s when I started getting back into designing/drawing, because I knew I could put my drawing skills to a new level with online graphics.

Up until this past year, my niche was definitely all over the place. I “thought” I wanted to do weddings and couples, but then I had an epiphany. I only wanted to do that because that was my entire following on Instagram. I was only following other wedding photographers. I was too overwhelmed to even dive into the fashion or creative portrait world. But once I started stepping out of my comfort zone and collaborating with other fashion models, it was like a switch. I knew this was what I wanted to follow through with, so my goals can keep growing and I can work with some awesome people around the world. (I also really like to travel.. clearly. So travel photography is always an option)

So today, I am a Fashion, Creative Portrait & Brand Photographer, a Website & Graphic Designer, and still, a Personal Trainer! I even used to be a Habit Coach and Spin Instructor. Oh, how people change.

Nothing is more creatively fulfilling for me then I get to have fun with it, and not stress about wedding timelines or anything. Also, being around other creatives is a huge part of that process, too. I think what sets me apart from others is my level of perfectionism. From the beginning of the process with consult coffee chats to become friends with the client, to making sure each photo/graphic tells a story and is exactly what they are looking for. To making sure they are comfortable with the payment process, and even keeping up with them after to check in. I want to make each step of the way an easy, super simple process, because I know I would get easily overwhelmed with everything there is to know about getting your photos taken or having a whole entire website designed and developed for you. Most of my clients are repeat clients, because we have created such a bond and there’s nothing better than that!

I’m honestly most proud of my determination. Motivation is SUCH a small thing, but it’s what got me started, and determination got me all the way here. I usually am quick to quit things, so I am honestly so proud of how I stuck to this business and can’t wait to watch it grow even bigger.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

That everyone needs a 9-5. WHEW, even today I am still unlearning this. Everyone around you tells you this is the way to live, but I am just not that person. Many people are, and that’s great! But I have learned I am not the best when it comes to working for others. The main thing is to figure out what makes you the happiest, and work really hard towards it.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

100% word of mouth! That’s why it’s always good to have a business card on you, or just let people know around you what you do and people are bound to reach out. Slowly my socials have been helping, but I’ve found that connections have been probably 75% of my business. Which is really cool because then we all know each other, learn how small of a world it is aand it makes for a great conversation starter!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alexhedleyphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexhedleyphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexhedleyphotography
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@alexhedleyphotography

Image Credits
All photos taken by Alex Hedley Photography