We recently connected with Vandreena Cotton-Meeks and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Vandreena thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

There have been two meaningful projects that I’ve worked on over the years that have connected me to the community while giving back.

The first was the East Atlanta Santafest which took place for over a decade in the East Atlanta Village. For 2 days every December, I would photograph families (and their rambunctious pets) in a holiday setting as they told Santa what they wanted for Christmas. Not only was it a joy to see the families grow over the years (I saw some kids go from scared 3-year-olds to confident teenagers), but it also gave back to the community. All proceeds from the event went toward Neighbor In Need (which provides emergency home repairs for low-income, elderly homeowners in East Atlanta) and the East Atlanta Kids Club (a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides youth with a safe environment to play, learn, and express themselves by providing high quality, S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics)-based programs that help the youth realize their potential). Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Santafest has been postponed since 2020, but everyone involved hopes it can return one day.

The other meaningful project that I work with annually is Angel Ride 99. Based in North Georgia, this 501(c)3 non-profit is an annual fundraiser/motorcycle ride used to benefit someone in the community that is facing a hardship (whether it be medical, financial or otherwise). It was first brought to my attention when one of my dear friends, Alannah, was the organization’s chosen recipient one year. When the organizer, Marybeth Pope, asked if anyone could donate goods or services towards the fundraiser, I didn’t hesitate. Since then, I’ve donated wedding photography coverage, family sessions and engagement sessions every year with all proceeds going directly to that year’s recipient. It’s the least I can do for such a selfless organization that gives back to those in their community to ensure they have a comfortable life while supporting each other, sharing God’s blessings, and changing lives for the better.

Vandreena, 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?

You would think someone who has a degree in journalism and a Peabody Award would know how to easily describe themselves, but I’ll try my best! My name is Vandreena Cotton-Meeks and I am a photographer/videographer based in the Atlanta area (with a penchant for travel).

I have been a photographer my entire life; my parents gifted me with my first camera when I was three years old and I still have it today! Capturing life’s moments and painting with light has always fascinated me as everyone & everything has their own story to tell. Currently, I provide photo & video coverage for everything from family sessions to weddings to real estate. My dad’s motto when it came to photo & video was “If it can be captured, capture it” so I have yet to settle on a niche, which allows me to be a constant student of the artform. You’ll rarely find me without my camera nearby.

When it comes to what sets me apart from the thousands of other photographers in the Atlanta area, I would definitely say it’s my personality. I always try to match my client’s energy and bring a familiar comfort to the session. Sometimes, I may be photographing a subdued business professional that is uncomfortable in front of the lens and I’ll have to bring out their passion for their work and translate that to the image. Other times, I’ll be capturing an energetic couple or family that loves the camera and leaves the session with more amazing images than they originally imagined. Every client is different, but I always make sure the session is comfortable, creative and not forced. I think that’s one of the main reasons I have so many repeat clients who come back year after year (while also referring me to their family & friends). Plus, it brings me so much joy that they trust me with their once-in-a-lifetime moments; I don’t take that privilege for granted.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

I typically keep in touch with my clients through text, email & social media (although I’ve considered snail mail during the holidays)! Some people prefer talking on the phone, while others prefer to DM so they can send photographic inspiration; I just want to make sure whichever way we communicate is convenient for them.

When clients repeatedly choose me to capture their moments or they constantly refer me to new clients, I try to reward their loyalty. That reward typically comes in the form of discounted sessions, complimentary products (such as prints or albums), and even free sessions. It’s just my way of thanking them for choosing me when there are so many other options in the area; I don’t take that loyalty for granted.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is seeing the smile on my clients’ faces when they view the final images. I love watching them realize the fun, excitement, professionalism, or beauty I saw behind the lens during our session.

Another rewarding aspect, though bittersweet, is seeing a family use the final images I captured of their loved one for their celebration of life. Although it’s heartbreaking to watch them go through the immeasurable pain of loss, knowing they have a beautiful image to honor their loved one’s memory reminds me why I step behind the lens and give every session my all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vncphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vnc_photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VNCPhotoVideo/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VNCPhotography/