Daily Inspiration: Meet Alexys Williams

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexys Williams

Hi Alexys, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My photography journey began at around age 10 with my family’s old camcorder, which I used to record and take photos constantly. I always brought it along on family vacations. My interest then shifted to Polaroids and film cameras, and I received both a Polaroid camera and a GoPro for Christmas. Over the years, my passion for film cameras grew, and I aspired to own a professional DSLR, inspired by someone I admired.

In 2020, at 16, I achieved that goal by purchasing my first DSLR. I used it extensively to capture moments for my church camp and family friends. However, it wasn’t until the summer of 2023 that I decided to turn my dream of becoming a professional photographer into reality. I launched Goldenray Photography in August 2023 and celebrated my first wedding booking on September 30th of that year.

Since then, I have invested countless hours into building my business, which has grown more rapidly than I ever imagined for a 19-year-old wedding photographer. Despite facing challenges, including criticism from other photographers, I remain focused on my long-held dream. Reflecting on the journey from the beginning to now, I am grateful for the growth and the wonderful couples I have had the pleasure to photograph. I truly appreciate God’s goodness in the opportunity to pursue what I love.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I feel incredibly blessed that my journey in this business has been relatively smooth. However, one challenge I’ve faced is encountering criticism from more experienced photographers, which has sometimes made me doubt my own abilities. It’s one thing to ignore external opinions, but it becomes more difficult when those voices come from individuals I once admired. Additionally, social media of trying to be the best can be mentally taxing, adding another layer of difficulty to navigating this profession.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m Alexys, the founder of Goldenray Photography, specializing in travel wedding and couples photography from my base in Southern California. My photography is known for its timeless and bright quality. I find immense joy in capturing the love and emotions between couples and take pride in traveling to document each couple’s unique story. It’s truly an honor to be part of their significant milestones and to provide them with lasting memories through my images!

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is preserving memories. I’ve encountered many people who only have their recollections to rely on, rather than tangible photos that capture those moments. For instance, my parents’ wedding photographer never provided them with any images, leaving them with only their memories of the day. It’s deeply important to me that both I and others can look back on physical photographs, which serve as lasting reminders of significant moments.

Pricing:

• •8 hour wedding coverage – $2000
• •6 hour wedding coverage – $1500
• • 4 hour wedding coverage – $1000
• •2 hour session – $500
• • 1 hour session – $250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://goldenrayphotography57.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenray.photography?igsh=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Goldenray Photography