We were lucky to catch up with Alexandria Rykse recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alexandria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

Ever since I was in elementary & middle school I was fascinated with photography. I begged for my first point and shoot camera until I finally got one for Christmas in 7th grade. I knew going into high school that I wanted to explore what I could creatively. I was the editor of our high school paper sophomore through senior years, and learned about journalism and photojournalism before it was heavily social media influenced. Heading into college I knew photojournalism was my major, I had a great time at CMU learning about photography techniques and how to tell a story through a lens. I was able to combine my love for fashion and photography by minoring in apparel merchandise and design. After college I started working at a bridal shop, and I’ve been doing that ever since on the side. I love brides and fashion so it doesn’t even feel like work. I love being able to execute high end fashion photos, and have images in multiple magazines. But I also love being able to capture the emotions of a wedding day with my true to life style. Being able to do luxury bridal portraits is my end goal, and I love being able to do editorial and photojournalistic photography until then!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I graduated college in 2016 with a degree in photojournalism and fashion merchandising, I use these skills to create unique and timeless portraits. I love being able to tell a story with my images, especially for brides. Editorial shoots and weddings are my happy place, being able to combine these passions to do luxury weddings has been a dream come true. I like non-traditional and boho vibes, and I am OBSESSED with anything vintage. My brand is very romantic and earthy, I love a good juxtaposition of couture fashion and nature.

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

It’s most rewarding when clients are obsessed with their images and they show them off and hype you up to other people. Referrals are the backbone to photography, and it’s a great feeling when someone contacts you because they love the work you did for a friend of theirs.

I also have images published in multiple magazines and features, including Photo Vogue. One of my favorite parts about being published is being able to see the work from the other creatives alongside you. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing “your submission has been accepted” in an email.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Being a professional creative is like a rollercoaster. There is a lot of inconsistency, especially because of the seasons here in Michigan. It’s hard in the off months to stay focused and inspired. I use a lot of Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration and networking. I feel like social media is it’s own beast when it comes to being self employed. It can be super difficult to balance the pressure of creating content and staying relevant with free time and emotional fulfillment. The biggest thing is not to focus on the amount of likes, and to just be satisfied with your work.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.axieblake.com
• Instagram: axieblake
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/axieblake
• Other: TikTok: Axieblake Email: alexandriablakephotography@gmail.com

Image Credits
Photo of my by Emily Crombez Photography