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

Alright, Alexandra thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

I am so blessed to be able to call my work my full time job. I had to take the leap for myself about a year ago, I’d like to say I haven’t looked back but I’ll be real – it takes a lot of commitment and determination to work for yourself. I wouldn’t trade it for the world though. I used to sit around at my 9-5 bored out of my mind until I picked my camera up and decided I could turn this hobby into a career. I worked alongside my 9-5 for three years, until I finally decided it was time to take the leap for myself. I was unhappy, unmotivated and knew something needed to change, I had to put myself first. I built up my clientele over the years and was able to gain a lot of clients through word of mouth. The first year is a learning curve for sure, but I feel more prepared going into this second year. I think your work is never truly done when you work for yourself, you’re always looking for new ways to grow and improve but my biggest piece of advice is to visualize and practice gratitude. I used to hope and pray I was doing what I’m doing now and it finally happened. It didn’t happen over night, but it happened because I put myself out there and told the universe this is what I wanted.

Alexandra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Alexandra Williams, a self taught Photographer, Model + Aura Reader out of Raleigh, NC. I create provocative portraits that empower and heal all bodies. My work primarily focuses on sexuality, body image and self empowerment and is influenced by pop culture, spirituality and 90’s nostalgia. I have been a photographer for the past four years, modeling for three and reading auras for the past year. I specifically created AURA, an intuitive portrait experience, so clients explore and capture their highest self through a portrait along with an aura and tarot reading. When i’m not reading auras or modeling, I am helping others celebrate and reclaim their bodies through boudoir. Photography is weaved into so many parts of my life and for that I am so grateful. I never thought I would be making a living as a creative, but I’m thriving!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Shame. We are taught at an early age to feel ashamed of ourselves and our bodies. It wasn’t until I had done a boudoir session of my own that I truly felt beautiful and seen. I was able to see what everyone else sees and not all the flaws or imperfections I conditioned my mind to see. It took a lot of body neutrality, self reflection and compassion to get where I am today, and I still have my moments, but having those images as a physical reminder that my body is capable and worthy grounds me every single time.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part is the clients! When I hear that my message resonates or that I have helped them see themselves in a way they never have before, it’s like the passing of the torch. I get to encourage and empower so many people to go after the lives that they deserve. There’s truly no better feeling! I always wanted to work in a form of art therapy, and to me this is it. I’m living my dream!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.apw-media.com
• Instagram: @apwmedia

Image Credits
first image of myself is by @nine19photography Kimberly Angel W.