Today we’d like to introduce you to Anika Edwards.
Hi Anika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been interested in all things creative since I could remember. Writing, creating flyers on the computer, recording videos and taking pictures on my Mom’s camera until I eventually purchased my own. This stayed with me through the years and led me to obtain my LLC for Noni Visuals in 2021 focusing only on graphic design at the time. Prior to this, I graduated from USC Aiken in 2019 with a Bachelor’s in Communication and a minor in Fine Arts. Here, I was able to sharpen my graphic design, videography and photography skills. Photography was the one area where even though I had the knowledge through my degree and practicing on my own, I felt I could use more help.
This led me to booking a class with one of my favorite photographers around the area (Tory Robins). During the class, she broke the information down to where it made me understand photography and sparked my interest even more.
From then on, I began to practice with friends and family who allowed me to photograph their branding and birthday sessions. Eventually, I took a leap of faith once I saw another photographer from the area who is now my mentor (Leo Jones) asking for an assistant for a wedding in Alabama. Talk about “doing it scared”!
Since then, I have assisted with several weddings with my mentor in addition to securing several portrait and event sessions for my business. What began as an area I did not have much interest in has become a passion that brings me joy to help people capture their most precious memories.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This path has not been easy, but I am learning so much. Each day requires a different, better version of myself than before and that is my focus. Trying to create a new mindset and better habits for myself so that I am able to show up for my business is difficult, but beautiful nonetheless.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in portrait and event photography and love it everyday! I am proud of how far I have come with it and seeing my growth. Not only with how my photos look, but everything I have learned up to this point and the connections I have made. I believe my resilience is what sets me apart because regardless of the ups and downs in business and life in general, I do not stay in that place and I know that it will pass.
Any big plans?
I am looking forward to continuing to grow my business and seeing where it takes me, as well as making more connections. I recently got my own studio, so I am super excited to begin having sessions there!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nonivisuals.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: @noni_visuals
- Facebook: Noni Visuals
