Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim from Kim Alexis Photography.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kim. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Absolutely, I’m thrilled to share! Since I can remember, I’ve always loved storytelling and the arts. It began with my passion for acting, however after picking up my Uncles camera in highschool, I immediately fell in love.
I began “testing” with modeling agencies around Los Angeles (this is where you photograph newly signed models in order to build your portfolio and theirs). After a couple of years building my portfolio and assisting Commercial & Editorial Photographers, I decided to make the big leap and moved to NYC!
This was probably the best decision of my life. I worked, learned, loved, cried, worked some more, hustled, built incredible friendships/work relationships and so much more! I freelanced at one of the most prestigious photo studios in the world to eventually working full time as a photographer for a merchandising company. All these experiences have shaped me into the Photographer and Business Woman I am today.
After almost five years of living in NYC, I realized I wanted to merge my love of acting and photography by specializing in Actors Headshots. I made the decision to move back home to Los Angeles and grow my business here. Soon after moving back, upon happy accident, I fell into the field of Set (Unit) Photography for various Films and TV shows. This gave me first-hand knowledge of being on set and working with talented Actors, Producers, and Directors. I now balance my time as a freelance set photographer and shoot out of a studio space in North Hollywood where I specialize in Actors Headshots.
Has it been a smooth road?
There have absolutely been struggles along the way from being looked down on for not having formal education as a Photographer, being a female Photographer on set in Hollywood and building a Headshot Photography business in a city where everyone with a camera does headshots….and for cheap. The latter is something that is a constant struggle. A lot of it is about consistency, staying relevant, and building those relationships with actors, agents and managers in order to earn your position in this industry.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I specialize in Actors Headshots and shoot out of a studio in North Hollywood. I think when I was younger and first thought about Headshots, I imagined “cheesy, glamour shots”. However, now I’m seeing such beautiful headshots – I’m talking editorial and beautifully lit cinematic style headshots. My ability to direct others, bring a sense of comfort and ease to my client’s sessions, and my playfulness/ joyful-yet knowledgeable qualities set me apart from other Headshot Photographers. I’m also younger than a lot of the established Headshot Photographers and feel that I’m much more personable – they can bring any music they like, bring a friend, have a complimentary consult with me. I truly want the best for my clients. I want them to have fun while also achieving their goals.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Los Angeles will always be a great city for Actors Headshots and portrait photography in general. There is a lot of competition but if you are good, have the right mindset and stay persistent during the hard times – anything is possible!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimalexisphotography.com
- Phone: 818-653-5571
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
My main portrait – that is Mikey Piliero
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