Today we’d like to introduce you to Alena Graff.
Alena, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I recently moved from Miami to Los Angeles and I am an expert in photography, videography, styling and post production, graphic design and website development.
While living in NYC I managed busy photo studio in Manhattan where I’ve perfected multitasking, so now producing a photoshoot from A to Z feels like a breeze. I’ve gained a lot of knowledge while assisting photoshoots of famous Vogue photographer Marco Glaviano and honed my skills as a videographer on several projects including International Leadership Program and Russian “Top Model”.
I partnered up with successful company Malinka Productions Inc on covering ultra-glamorous events and happenings around Miami, LA, and NY. I also enjoy shooting weddings, kids, and boudoir.
Please take a look at my extensive gallery – I am sure you will find something that matches your needs!
When not working behind the camera I love to develop websites and work on logos. The process of capturing the true essence of my client’s individual style and reflecting it on their business cards and websites is a fun and challenge, and I love challenges!
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road and many struggles presented themselves along the way. First fleeing Russia with one small suitcase and limited funds, then finding yourself in Miami with no English or friends, it was a time of self-discovery and perseverance. Taking random jobs in the back of the restaurants, cleaning houses and doing deliveries while studying English didn’t take my focus away from photography. I found time to shot portraits of co-workers on my lunch breaks, did street photography on my way from work to my evening school. Not too long after I started earning money photographing beach weddings and kids birthday parties which allowed me to save up for a better camera and lighting equipment and a one-way ticket.
With a precious camera, cargo packed along with big dreams I boarded a plane to New York City where I took a challenging position in running a photo studio in a heart of Manhattan. Soon after I was introduced to famed photographer Marc Glaviano who saw my talent and took me under his wing. Few months assisting him on the shoots and doing several under his supervision gave me the confidence and notoriety I have today. I’ve shot for Cosmopol Magazine, Socialite Magazine, Design Magazine, etc. Also covered most prestigious events around the US (Miami and New York Fashion Shows, Intrl Boat Shows, Galas, private events).
What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
It’s always challenging to move from hobby to a business and still be inspired and be able to pay your bills at the same time. It can be a long way, but you have to always listen to your heart and follow your dreams. Doesn’t matter how difficult it is or you don’t have enough experience. It’s never enough of experience when you starting to build your career or it’s not the best photo equipment, but if you never try you will never know.
Tell us more about the struggles you’ve faced along the way.
It hasn’t been a smooth road and many struggles presented themselves along the way. First fleeing Russia with one small suitcase and limited funds, then finding yourself in Miami with no English or friends, it was a time of self-discovery and perseverance. Taking random jobs in the back of the restaurants, cleaning houses and doing deliveries while studying English didn’t take my focus away from photography. I found time to shot portraits of co-workers on my lunch breaks, did street photography on my way from work to my evening school. Not too long after I started earning money photographing beach weddings and kids birthday parties which allowed me to save up for a better camera and lighting equipment and a one-way ticket.
Is LA a good place to do what you do?
I will definitely recommend big cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami to starting out and build your career, a specially to bring your creativity, professionalism, skills to a new level. LA is a city of a lot of opportunities, where is everyone will find themselves, however, big cities are always tough and can be really challenging if you have a passion and ready to achieve your goals, is the place to grow! Always believe in yourself, your intuition, be open to new opportunities and always learn from every moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.graffstudios.com
- Phone: +1 305 219 8363
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graffstudios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graffalena
