Rising Stars: Meet Erika Degraff of LOS ANGELES

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Degraff.

Hi Erika, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve spent my entire career as a visual storyteller. I started behind the scenes as a celebrity stylist for fashion editorials, music videos, and theater, but I eventually found my true home in front of the camera. It’s an honor to create work that makes people feel something. I believe art is essential because it starts the conversations that create change. As a storyteller, I love having the power to shift perspectives and environments—it’s a gift that keeps on giving!

I believe every creative job I had before becoming an actress was essential preparation. Through immense hard work, dedication, and belief, I’ve reached where I am today—and I know this is only the beginning.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In my opinion, no road that has ever been smooth has been worth it. It takes the bumps and detours to help you find yourself. I have had many struggles since the beginning of my career, often upset by rejection, until I realized that rejection is frequently a form of protection. There were auditions years ago that I wanted so badly because I considered the opportunity ‘life-changing.’ But I later discovered that if I had received a role of that magnitude during those early stages, I would not have been ready mentally or emotionally; with time, I have grown as an actress. Time not only makes you better, but wiser.

I have also struggled with the imposter syndrome that all artists go through, feeling that our work is not good enough compared to others on the same path. I have learned that with time, everyone’s experience is different—and it should be—because that is what makes every story worth telling. My advice to all is to find a mirror, look at yourself, and say, ‘I am ENOUGH. I am more than enough, I am perfect as I am, and I am exactly where I am supposed to be at this moment.’ Words have power, and that really starts to shift your perspective.

Embrace the struggles, because they teach you more lessons than any job will. Keep enjoying the journey!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a visual storyteller specializing in acting, with work featured on AppleTV, Amazon Prime, and numerous other media platforms. I also express myself through digital photography, capturing documentary and travel imagery which have been featured in galleries across London, New York, and most recently at the historic Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles.

As a photographer, I aim to show the world without filters or facades. By capturing the everyday lives of people from all walks of life and the raw beauty of landscapes, I hope to spark conversation and inspire change—even when revealing the harshness of our society. I also just published a book titled Transcend, Living an Inspired Life now available on Amazon, Kindle, and Barnes & Noble.

I am most proud of the fact that I don’t allow one person’s “no” to deter me from bringing the ideas in my mind and soul to fruition. For every one “no,” there are a million “yeses”—so go where you are celebrated, not just tolerated. While I wouldn’t say there is any one thing that sets me apart from others, I am deeply dedicated to the work in hopes of inspiring others along the way.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Never stop believing, Never stop Dreaming. Keep Going, YOU are closer than you think!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.erikadegraff.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frenchvendette/
• Other: https://www.frenchvendette.com/

Image Credits
The Diamond Film: Alexandria Ferg
Not Every Woman Film: Dara Frazier
In My Own Skin Film: @archive_d.n.a._
Red Top: @plug.music
Dress next to Photo: Personally taken with IPhone
Main Photo: @portraitsbysouza