Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Roman.
Andrea, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
If I remember correctly, I believe it was in 5th grade the first time I got my hands on a disposable camera. Immediately, I became busy taking candid snapshots of all my classmates and family whether they enjoyed it or not. My child brain loved photography and wanted to capture all the important moments—big and small. In high school, I took photography more seriously while I was shooting photos for my mother’s jewelry business. She designed very intricate and complicated pieces and needed photos to showcase her work. I learned that I loved making the colors pop and the use of natural lighting. I would bring into focus all the small details that were hidden throughout her pieces. The good news: her business flourished and published a how-to-book based on her jewelry-making. The bad news: I didn’t pursue photography after that, and to this day I still deeply regret it.
In my early 20’s, I encountered many opportunities that brought photography back into my life, but it still took years before it stuck permanently. At my first full-time job, one of my tasks was to build an entire photo archive for the marketing department to use at their disposal. I had not touched a camera since high school, so you can image how unprepared I felt. I practiced getting familiar with the functions of my camera and learned the basics of aperture, shutter speed, and focal length. It was such a rewarding experience to be able to confidently hold my camera and say, “I am capable of doing this.” As if that was not a clear enough sign, I also worked as a newborn photographer at a hospital and had opportunities to shoot a few weddings and events on the side. The universe was hollering at me, and I still wasn’t listening.
It was when I swallowed my fear of failure that I learned just how important art was to my soul and wellbeing. It boiled down to a breaking point where I was so tired of being too afraid to try. I became frustrated at the amount of time I was wasting being lost in limbo. I knew the way I was living wasn’t working for me. I desperately wanted to prove to myself that I could do this, and I’m happy to say that I finally did. My whole attitude towards photography changed when I challenged myself to plan a garden tub maternity shoot for my very pregnant cousin. After that prolific experience, photography became about improving my skills, competing against myself, and learning something new from every photo session. I love the entire process of envisioning creative projects, building props to make my vision come to life, and spending hours in Lightroom. It finally stuck, and it’s not going anywhere this time.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I create images that capture the beauty of poc women against an ethereal backdrop inspired by old folklore, historical religious imagery, and magical realism. I basically just want to depict poc women as beautiful goddesses because I think it’s a gorgeous and otherworldly aesthetic we don’t typically see. I try to incorporate those elements into my work by using lots of flowers, greenery, natural lighting, and dramatic shadows. Recently, I’ve fallen in love with crown headdresses and been inspired to create my own. I spent the summer crafting a gold crown headdress for a photo session with my sister, and it came out so regal and beautiful. I already have ideas for my next piece (definitely horns)!
Any advice for aspiring or new artists?
I say learn what your goal is as an artist and pay attention to the work that uplifts your soul. As an artist with diagnosed ADD, keeping a bullet journal to organize my photo sessions, deadlines, and monthly goals was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. Make a plan, and follow through. I wish I learned earlier not to be so afraid of failure and listen to those who were encouraging me to keep going. You can be your worst enemy or most cherished friend. It’s up to you.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can check out my work and upcoming projects on Instagram and Ello. I am currently available for bookings! I shoot small weddings, maternity, portraits, and events. You can direct email me at dre.roman.photo@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ello.co/drermn
- Email: dre.roman.photo@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dre.roman/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrea.roman.10236
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/drea_zilla
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/dreazilla/
Image Credit:
Personal Photo Credit: Alex Espinosa Parker
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
