We were lucky to catch up with Alyssa Mancini recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alyssa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
We all get stuck in jobs we don’t love and spend time complaining about it. I was bartending for years and so unhappy in the life I was living. During covid I decided to take the leap and explore where my photography business can go. Anyone in the restaurant industry can attest to how difficult it is to leave that fast money life. It hurt at first but having more availability for photo opportunities made me more ‘bookable’ and therefore made my photo business flourish. Taking the leap is definitely a risk but you just have to trust the process.
Alyssa, 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’m Alyssa Mancini, an NJ-based wedding photographer capturing weddings as naturally as they unfold before me. My clients are more interested in the in-between moments of them and their loved ones on their big day rather than uncomfortable posed moments. I got into this industry after spending years as a bartender and being well-versed in customer service and making clients feel comfortable. When I entered the wedding industry one thing stayed the same- offering good service is still very much part of this job. Hopping on calls, connecting and communicating with planners, working to make each wedding day go off without a hitch. Before a couple books me we get to know one another and make sure we connect- it really helps tell the story when I know a couple’s chemistry/interests/values.
Being a business owner and especially a wedding photographer, you have to be incredibly disciplined and organized. Keeping files on each couple and keeping their memories from the biggest day of their lives safe are key in doing this job.
What sets me apart from others in this industry is that I take the time to get to know my clients. Their pet names, what they do for work, where they grew up etc. Chatting about familiar topics helps make couples feel relaxed on their wedding day and I think it reflects in their photos.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
I truly think sharing work that you want more of is very important as a photographer. Once I understood this, I started attracting the clients I wanted to reach.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Instagram and TikTok are where most of my clients find me. When you start sharing the kind of work you want to attract, your audience will find you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alyssamanciniphoto.com
- Instagram: @alyssamanciniphoto
- Other: TikTok: @Alyssamanciniphoto
Image Credits
Alyssa Mancini
Brittany Boote