Today we’d like to introduce you to Matrika Edwards.
Hi Matrika, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a published photographer based out of Norfolk, VA servicing the Hampton Roads area. I am also a military spouse of 15 years, and I value family and capturing special moments. We have family that I visit often in North Augusta, SC which holds a special place in my heart. My family will retire to our farm in North Augusta, SC in the near future. I started off as a self-taught natural light photographer in 2019 with a Canon T7i camera. I have always had a love for taking pictures even as a kid. I would get a disposable camera almost every week.
On January 10, 2022, Gurley Street Photography, LLC was official. I grew up on Gurley Street and naming my business after a place that holds a lot of memories has meaning to me. It took me years and 4 camera upgrades to decide it was time to take my passion more seriously and create a successful business. I have attended webinars, workshops, in-person trainings to better my craft as a photographer. I feel like there is always something to learn and knowledge is power.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Realizing that my passion was photography has not been a smooth road. I have tried many hobbies and activities, but nothing has lit a spark in me like photography. I designed my website and name logo myself to save on cost. I have designed my business card and t-shirts for marketing.
I struggle with Imposter Syndrome and always doubt my work. I would say that confidence has been a struggle along the way. When you constantly are uncertain about yourself, it makes it difficult to move forward. At times anxiety will hold me back from networking and trying new things. All those things are in my head, and once I realize that I am able to take baby steps into new adventures. There is nothing physically holding me back, but my mental handcuffs have delayed the process of growth. Years have passed by, and now I feel the pressure to not give up like all the other times before. This is my time to prove to myself that I can do this!
As you know, we’re big fans of Gurley Street Photography, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I specialize in portrait photography. I offer many different session types such as family, boudoir, maternity, senior, cap and gown, prom, couples, branding, models, and headshots. I offer a maternity closet for clients which sets me apart. I provide wardrobes for my maternity clients and I offer free dress rental for military spouses. I offer a variety of sessions for outdoor and indoor studio appointments. Not all photographers are able to offer such versatility.
I want readers to know that Gurley Street Photography, LLC is a brand that can be trusted. A fast turnaround is always something I pride myself in. I know how excited clients are to see the final product so I make it a point to start editing as soon as I return home after the session.
The first event to be Hosted by Gurley Street Photography, LLC will be a book signing for Liz Corbett in Norfolk, VA in January 2023.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
As a child, I was very quiet and stayed to myself. I was what some would call shy, but I later realized it was anxiety at times. I wanted to be a teacher and then my goal changed to be a broadcast journalist. I loved to read books and write in my journal at night. I loved taking pictures with my disposable cameras on all the school field trips. I went to modeling school as a teenager and those skills are still useful today as a photographer. I loved learning as a kid, and I still do.
Contact Info:
- Website: gurley-street-photography-llc.square.site
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gurleystreetphotography?r=nametag
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gurleystreetphotography
Image Credits
Self portraits completed by Matrika Edwards
