We were lucky to catch up with Clarissa Lewis recently and have shared our conversation below.
Clarissa, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
Honestly, when learning photography I definitely went to “Youtube University” to educate myself. A lot of it was learning the basics of composition, editing and how to use a DSLR camera in general. I wish I had done a local course on photography and simply using that to understand the complexities to creating intriguing portraits. I love where I am now though, and I think that if I didn’t take the time to learn how I did, I wouldn’t have the unique style I have now. Editing was definitely the most important skill I learned. It allows me to complete transform the meaning of a portrait. The obstacle that stood in the way of me learning more was the fact that I didn’t have my own professional camera until a few years into learning photography. Before that, I simply used a point and shoot digital camera for taking images (which doesn’t provide nearly the same quality as my camera now). That kinda made me come to a halt when learning but, once I got my new camera, I was able to learn so many new techniques!
Clarissa, 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?
Hi! I am a boutique photographer specializing in portraits of business owners and families, creating photographic wall art to be used in decorating your home or business! I hold your hand through a personalized, full service boutique experience: offering a personalized, one-on-one consultation to discuss your vision, art placement of wall art, to an ordering presentation where we select the images that speak the most to you. I am not a photographer who simply sends over digital files and leaves you unsure of what to do next. I specialize in creating canvas heirloom quality photographic artwork. This artwork is designed to be hung in your home or business, for all to admire, appreciate and bond over. With the custom wall portraits, you have the choice of decorating your home or adding warmth and a personal touch to your business! I love to advocate for printed portraiture because when added to your home or business, it creates such an inviting, proud, warm environment for everyone to just be in awe of. I want this for YOU and your family!
What makes me most passionate about printed portraits is a few months ago, my 2 year old niece suffered a traumatic death. I was so lost. After her funeral, I was gifted a canvas of a portrait I took of her a month prior. Immediately, I was flooded with happy tears. I was sad to know she isn’t here anymore but, to this day, couldn’t be happier that I am reminded of her every morning as she sits on my mantle. I never realized how important and sentimental wall portraits can be to families. I felt connected to her through the wall art then I did seeing a photo on my phone. I feel so strongly about displaying portraits because It allows us to feel closer and more connected to those we love.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Right now in my business journey, I am taking a pivotal step. I invested in myself and my business to take a course on boutique photography. This allows me to provide products such as framed and canvas photography, to my clients. I’ve realized how much more valuable this is to. my clients, to have personal portraits used to decorate their home or business! It’s an important step for me to take right now and I am very excited to see where it takes me.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Of course! When building your presence on social media, it’s important to let people know of your pages! It may seem obvious but, for people that support your business, you need to let them know of your accounts. Secondly, I started to follow some local businesses in my area. Chances are you will get a follow back! It creates awareness of who you are and what your services are. Keep active on social media as well, and not just posting. Comment on other people’s posts, motivate others, and simply direct message other business owners with something positive that may be going on in their life. People love authentic and genuine humans and when that is put out in the world, it comes right back to you through your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: capturedxclarissaphotography.com
- Instagram: @capturedxclarissa