We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandria Rowlen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alexandria, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Since I was young, I always knew I wanted to be a photographer. I wanted to get as much knowledge and experience as I could to master the craft. I attended Columbia College in Chicago, Illinois, received my bachelor’s degree, mentored under renowned photographers, and even worked at a camera store. I wanted all things PHOTO haha.

What sped up my learning process more than anything, I would have to say, is constantly photographing. Constantly shooting. Working with people and other talented individuals and the camera store taught me the technical knowledge that I needed. Photographing and gaining experience was the way I learned more.

This is where you learn by trial and error in most things. What works for you, your business, and what kind of clients do you want to attract? You focus on your skill level and you just only become better the more you shoot.

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

Hello! My name is Alexandria Rowlen and I am a full-time photographer located here in Phoenix, Arizona! I have been photographing for over 15 years in the Fashion, Portrait, and Firearms industry. I specialize in Brand Marketing and product-focused photography with videography.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I remember when I told people the news that I wanted to be a photographer a lot of people laughed, doubted me, or just said that wasn’t the “safest option” to choose from. However, I had a passion and a true love for it. Every time I got behind the camera I felt my soul was happy and alive. I knew from those exact moments that was going to be what I wanted to do. And I stuck with it more than ever.

Working my way up to having a full-time photography business wasn’t easy. There was a lot of rejection, denial, and hardships with money. You have to hustle and believe in the work you are doing. That will be what gets you through the tough times. No matter what or if you get knocked down you must get back up and keep going. People will be petty in the industry and it’s also up to you to remain humble always.

Life will never give us what we can’t handle. We are more resilient than we think as well.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

One of the most rewarding moments in my career actually just happened this past week! In the firearms industry, we have a ceremony that is known as the Gundie Awards Ceremony. It was located this year at the Venetian Theatre in Las Vegas Nevada! I had the pleasure to be nominated this year for Photo of The Year and I ended up winning! It was based on a voting system and I had enough support that I was recognized. I am forever grateful and so honored to have been a part of it. It truly made me feel I am on the right path it was one of the major goals I had for myself this year and I was able to accomplish it with the support and efforts from everyone around me!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alexandriarowlen.com
• Instagram: @caliber.row
• Other: Fashion Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexrow1

Image Credits
Gundie Awards Ceremony in Las Vegas Nevada Caliber.Row Winner of Photo of The Year (Photo Nominee) Adelina Mae W/ Ranger Point Precision (Lever Action Fashion Photo) Ambi_Tactical (3 Tier Photo) W/ Walther Arms Firearm Reginald w/ (Sitting in Office Photo)