Today we’d like to introduce you to Leticia Andrade.
Leticia, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a portrait photographer based in Peachtree City, Georgia. I was born and raised in the mountains outside of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I moved to the US in the early 90s where I studied Art History at Syracuse University. I then developed a career in the fashion design industry for over ten years. Another ten years after caring for my two children, Felipe 15 and Olivia 9, I felt it was time to do something that would reignite my passion for the arts and creativity.
Has it been a smooth road?
The main challenge for me was managing my time and the transition from being a stay home mom for 10 years into being a mom and a business owner at the age of 44.
I was not sure of what my strengths were but recognized my limitations. I dedicated a lot of energy to understand what this endeavor really meant to me and felt confident that, with a lot of dedication and focus, I could create and manage my own photography studio. Most importantly, I knew that learning my craft would be a life long venture and there were no short cuts. So, I found a mentor who truly inspired me and helped me believe I was capable of accomplishing so much more than I ever imagined.
We’d love to hear more about Leticia Andrade Photography.
In 2016, Leticia Andrade Photography was born. Today my studio invites women of any age and walks of life, to celebrate their power and beauty throughout the portrait process. My main purpose is to help women improve confidence and self-value. In a safe space, free of judgment, I can truly connect with my clients giving them permission to be themselves in a very authentic manner. The experience of a makeover and photoshoot is transformational where every woman feels valued and beautiful.
I make sure to always stay engaged in my community, to bring awareness to women’s issues thru personal or collaborative photography projects. I am currently collaborating with nine other photographers around the world on a book project featuring images and stories of domestic violence survivors. #SheWins the book and accompanying online community is a platform for women all around the world to share their experiences, to bring awareness and provide hope and inspiration to all involved.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Surround yourself with people who support and believe in you. Find inspiration in other professionals and choose a mentor in your industry. Most entrepreneurs struggle with very similar issues and having a community makes the journey a lot smoother. Be eager to learn, as you improve your confidence, the better you will serve your clients.
Show up and be yourself, authenticity will attract like-minded people and soon you will discover your tribe. When you genuinely connect and create relationships, your clients will stay with you and become an advocate for you and your business.
Be aware that life balance is extremely hard to achieve, so be sure to take time to care for yourself, without guilt and don’t forget it is ok to ask for help. Expectations can make you feel like you are never doing enough, so try to start your day by writing your intentions and be proud of all your accomplishments, they are never too small!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lehphoto.com
- Phone: 470-2550095
- Email: leticiaandrade@lehphoto.com
- Instagram: @lehphoto
- Facebook: @lehphoto
Image Credit:
Leticia Andrade Photography
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