Today we’d like to introduce you to Addi Rogers
Hi Addi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Addi’s Lens Photography came about from ideas & visions I have had sporadically over the years. Like most business stories, it did not happen all at once but rather little nudges that led to me to fully diving into the creative world of photography, art, storytelling, and growth. I would love to say that “ever since I was little I had a camera in my hand” but that just was not the case. Every since I was little, I loved making things look creative/aesthetic. I didn’t care what I was taking a picture of but I loved editing, sharing, and creating something that meant something to me.
Of course, the creativity faded away slightly as I went through high school and college and I convinced myself that I would never take making things look beautiful that seriously. How could I anyway? After living in Salt Lake City, Utah for four years, I was opened up to a world of creatives that I have never really experienced before. Whether it was painting, bandana making, ceramics, earring making, poem writing, or photography– everyone seemed to make their hobby that “wouldn’t make a ton of money” into their small business passion project. We were always told that hobbies won’t fulfill us financially, and more often than not, maybe they don’t. However, I was inspired in more ways than one to think outside the box and pursue things that don’t always make sense. After not being able to follow my path of playing soccer in college, I needed to start thinking of ways to contribute to the world without a degree. Putting one foot in front of the other, I quickly realized the path will appear the more I move forward. Being an athlete and also being a creative can sometimes be seen as an odd combo. It gives me life & inspiration like nothing I have ever experienced before. My photography business started by taking a chance on something I had no clue would every work. but that’s how all good things start– by starting. I started with my prices as low as $40/hour and eager to learn how to give the best experience while honoring my creative eye. After studying to be a therapist for a few years, I also incorporated sharing my writings as someone who is passionate about mental health, human connection, and vulnerability. Putting myself out there regardless of imposter syndrome constantly creeping in, one thing led to another and being a creative is now my full time job!
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?
Nothing worthwhile is ever a smooth road! Struggles included; the learning curve of getting to know my camera, my style of editing, how to run a business from the ground up, expanding my clientele, imposter syndrome, and learning how to let go of the stress of being perceived by others. Most of my obstacles were self induced– wondering if I was really good enough for this route or convincing myself there are already enough photographers out there. While sure, there are more than enough photographers out there, none are me. Same way as I am not any of them. The best part of being a full time creative is that art is purely subjective. My style of photography will not resonate with everyone and that is perfectly okay. Thats actually what makes this career field beautiful. There is someone out there for everyone. Your favorite photographer might not even have a camera in hand yet. The creative process and mind is something that is both terrifying and rewarding beyond belief. The biggest obstacle is actively NOT feeding into the doubt of “no one will like this” and the comfort of inaction. Making the wrong decision will open doors that inaction cannot. Share your work. Post the picture. Feel silly while doing it. The biggest loss is not doing anything at all.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a traveling photographer who specializes in capturing human connection ! This includes couples, engagements, proposals, small weddings, personal/lifestyle branding, and elopements! I most known for my approach of organic and creative storytelling through photos– the unposed and in-between moments that often go unnoticed are my bread and butter.
I am most proud of how I connect with others in the short amount of time together to make my couples feel comfortable, beautiful, and like I am not even there 🙂 I love making those who say they are “horribly awkward” and “not photogenic” feel like the inspiration they sent me off of Pinterest. I always love to say that I couple who is in love is a couple who photographs well! To me, it only makes sense that my passion for humans translates to making humans feel beautiful. Because at the end of the day it’s not about me– I am simply the middle man to making a couple’s love story come to life.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Creative photography is made for everyone! I tend to see that there is a certain demographic that gets their photos done and ends up on all of our Pinterest boards. While these are still photos I love and draw inspiration from constantly, I want to remind everyone that high quality and authentic moments are made to be captured for any couple or individual <3 My passion for humanity being translated into a creative outlet on social media and my full time jobn has been a dream come true 🙂
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @aaddislens
