Where are you originally from? What city in Florida are you currently located in?

I’m from Chicago, Illinois, and now reside in St. Pete, FL.

What's your favorite part about living in Florida?

I have so many favorite things about living in Florida. I can say that, with all my favorite things, what I love about Florida is that my and my family's livelihood is better.

About

Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Tell us a bit about your creative background.

I studied criminal justice 10 years ago, and through the courses, I learned how to work a Canon camera through my crime scene investigative courses. Through those specific courses, I fell in love with photography and am now a professional photographer in the Tampa Bay Area.

What's your favorite part about being a photographer?

My favorite part of being a photographer is the reactions of all my clients. Noticing the outcome being shared gives me the most joy in the end because the image that I saw I get to share with them, and they, in turn, share it with the world. Having the opportunity to share my art with the world makes me feel immense gratitude. Not only to the client but to the universe for providing the opportunity to do so.

Creative Process

How do you approach a new project or idea?

I take my clients' ideas, then I incorporate different aesthetics, sceneries, and other outside elements to make the magic happen.

Could you walk us through your typical creative process?

I have my clients list things they are looking for, then I share my mood board with them to collaborate on a foundation for the shoot. Once on the shoot, we spearhead those major things. Throughout checking those off the list, other images and inspirations come into play to complete the photoshoot.

What software or tools do you find most useful to your work?

I mostly use Lightroom.

"Never say no to an opportunity for something new because those are the best learning opportunities."

Challenges

What has been your biggest challenge as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I have faced is making sure I don't fit into one specific category and becoming stagnant in photography. I've had to make sure I step outside of my comfort zone and think outside the box so that I can become the best photographer I can be. Put me behind the lens, and I'll make it happen, no matter the subject.

How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on your work?

Any and all criticism I use as a tool to hone my craft. There isn't anything I take as negative because I use it to learn and be better.

What do you do when you experience creative blocks?

I usually can either turn to other close photographers or delve into some of my favorite visually gripping films as inspiration. The world is filled with images, so I can use that to get out of that block.

Personal Insights

How would you define creativity?

Creativity is a muse, and she always shows up in different colors, angles, lights, shadows, and faces. Creativity is a spark that everyone has; you just have to find the right material to set it ablaze.

How do you balance your creative work with other aspects of your life?

The balance is that they are both intertwined. By doing what I love, the time I have set aside for it definitely takes the lead, but it allows me to enjoy life right alongside what I do.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers out there?

Take the shot. That shot could be the shot that you wouldn't know was there. Never say no to an opportunity for something new because those are the best learning opportunities. Explore different places, meet new people, and put yourself out there because if you aim for the stars, you're bound to hit one.

Future and Aspirations

What are your future goals or aspirations as a photographer?

I would like to expand my fashion industry photography further. I would enjoy an opportunity as a unit photographer in the cinema.

Thank you, Aly, for sharing your journey and insights with us. We can't wait to see what the future holds for your career.

Check out more of her work

alyimages.com, @alyimages