We recently connected with Alexandra Peterson and have shared our conversation below.

Alexandra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I knew that photography was something I wanted to pursue professionally when I was in high school, and decided to research that very possibility. Photography has always been a passion of mine, something I have put my all into, and once I discovered that photography is a very real career path, being able to support myself while doing what I love became a dream of mine.

Alexandra, 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?

I am a Michigan photographer that loves all things vintage and abandoned with a specialty in classic car photography. I have always taken photos everywhere I have gone for as long as I can remember, but got into photographing classic cars from the many car shows I have attended with my grandfather. I have always loved the small details of cars that some may overlook, such as hood ornaments. emblems, etc. Whether the car is in pristine condition or patina, I love them all. I offer unique prints of my photos on my website in a variety of materials, mainly canvas, metal, and traditional prints in a variety of different sizes. I also offer photoshoot packages for those who may want high quality photos of their new or classic vehicle in the location of their choice, around West and MidMichigan.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think society can better support artists by shopping from them as much as they can. Art comes in all kinds of mediums, from the painting in your living room to the clothes in your closet, and I think it is important to consider shopping small when wanting to obtain these items. A small artist that takes photos, paints, designs clothing, etc. is going to benefit so much more from your purchase and support than a big box store like TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, etc. The prices may be slightly higher than that of a big box store because they have to account for the materials, time, and other factors, but supporting a small business is not only worth it, the quality has often been better, in my opinion.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I knew how important it is to put yourself out there and to network. In the beginning of my photography journey, I was shy and wanted to try to do everything on my own, without having to talk to anyone. I realized when going to college to receive my Associate’s in Photography, that networking with other photographers and those in the business, and putting yourself out there, both in person and on social media, that you open up many more opportunities for yourself, as opposed to not. I was so scared of rejection that I actually was limiting myself, and while I am still quiet and introverted, I now know that putting myself out there is how my art will be seen and how my name will get out there. The worst thing someone can say is no, and that really is not that bad in the grand scheme of things.

Contact Info:

• Website: photosbyaquarius.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/photos.by.aquarius
• Facebook: facebook.com/photosbyaquarius
• Tiktok: @photos.by.aquarius