Inspiring Conversations with Nishelle Walker

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nishelle Walker.

Hi Nishelle, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started to take pictures from my Grandmas’s floppy disk digital cameras and my mother’s point and shoot film cameras since the age of five. Growing up, I spent my allowance mostly on developing and printing those pictures! I did photo projects throughout middle school and took so many pictures on my free time with friends and family. Little did I know that I was developing my eye… The point that I knew that I would be a professional photographer was my senior year in high school when I “tried out” for the photo staff. I was so passionate and was quickly acknowledged by my peers and teacher as the primary “portrait photographer”. That year I took custom portraits of every one of the seniors graduating that year (apx 600 students). I developed my knowledge of camera use and digital photography at Moorpark Community College (where I also completed generals) and one year later, I transferred to the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. I learned most of my skills during those four years at the Academy. I had great mentorship from Jim Woods, our department director, and several other teachers (John Vano & David Wasserman to name a couple more). I worked my ass off during those years. Several jobs, full-time classes and a constant production of photoshoots coming down the pipeline. I learned my creative style and how to deliver consistent professional results during these years. It took a lot of mental fortitude to produce unique ideas so often and to execute them on limited budgets and sleep.

I transitioned from school to work through an internship here in LA. I assisted and worked alongside LA photographer Geoff Moore. Between internships, photo gigs and a cafe job, I eventually found my niche shooting for developing businesses of all kinds here in LA. And I really mean- all kinds. I shot for major banks, law firms, hotels, restaurants, business professionals, fashion companies, events, etc. What I learned from those experiences was that my skills are in telling stories and capturing the feeling behind whatever or whoever my subject was. Today, I feel confident to help growing businesses tell their stories and help convey who they are and to attract what they want through strategic photography.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My greatest challenge was how to identify and market myself as a “photographer”. Without a clear sense of direction, I struggled with lack of certainty, confidence and even motivation at sometimes.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am a freelance photographer, helping businesses start with great content for web, print, social media and marketing. I am known for being fun to work with and for taking creative direction very well and collaborating. My interpersonal skills, having good energy and being a good listener have helped me and my clients tremendously. My photographic skills are just as strong, but I truly feel that my ability to connect with my clients and their needs have set me apart from other skilled photographers around me.

I would like to be known for “telling stories” with my camera that help my clients reach their goals. Currently, I am looking to work with sustainable brands or other brands with humanitarian and other broader purpose companies. Honestly, anything with good vibes or to help the human race. I want to look back at these next ten years and see myself working with businesses that focus on giving more than they take.

Any big plans?
I look forward to getting into directing small videos commercials using my background in photography.

Pricing:

• Headshots starting at $150
• Website photo packages starting at $500
• Social Media Content Package starting at $300

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: NishelleWalker.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/nishellemariephotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nishellemariephotography