Today we’d like to introduce you to Dedra Walker.
Dedra, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I have always been a photographer, not just a picture taker. I can always remember moments seeing my Uncle with his camera and his camcorder connected to his hands. I use to capture pictures with my family’s 110 film camera as early as elementary. I can relive my elementary school’s May Days by simply looking at some of my photos. Who could forget those green shirts? During high school, I took a graphic art design class where I had the opportunity to capture images and develop them in the classroom’s darkroom.
Over the years, I continued my love with photography by capturing events of my children. With film and paying for the images to be developed, I finally purchased my first digital camera: Canon Rebel XT! I was taking pictures of everything: children sporting events, field trips, birthday parties, etc. You name it; I was the photographer. One day after a very awesome outing with my son’s pre-K class. I decided to explore the cool buttons on my digital camera… The coolest button of them all was the “format,” button. Within a matter of a minute. My whole photographic life had disappeared. Gone were the memories of the most recent soccer game win. Gone were the memories of everything. From that moment forward, I vowed to learn more about the “ cool buttons,” on my camera and how they truly work.
Once again, I was back at my love. Taking pictures. I was the picture Mom at so many events, and I loved it.
After multiple deaths in 2009 of family members, close friends, friends, and eventually the death of my marriage- I got a divorce. I sat still. My camera was still. I will still. I had taken pictures at more funerals than I was mentally prepared to endure. I sat still. It took the encouragement from one of my best friends to get up, my camera back in my hands, and actively capturing moments in life. I got up.
From that spiritual renewal, in 2010 EmoryRose Photography came into fruition. My photography company was named after my children’s middle names: my son Emory and my daughter Rose. In 2015, I started revamping my business, and in 2016 my business became, EmoryRose Photography, LLC.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I am the founder and Chief Executive Officer of EmoryRose Photography, LLC. My company’s specialties include (but are not limited to) photography covering family, lifestyle, children portraits, headshots, corporate events, parties, sports photography, branding, and video production. EmoryRose Photography, LLC was recently voted Best of Gwinnett 2018, has appeared in a Gwinnett County Public Library, Cigar & Spirits Magazine, 2019 IKIC Calendar, several local newspapers, on a billboard, and various online media outlets. EmoryRose Photography, LLC serves as an official photography/Sponsor Barrow County Family Connection events, Quince Girl Expo in Gwinnett County, the Atlanta African American Book Festival, and a few others. I enjoy working with authors, musicians, artists, political candidates, community advocates, as well as for-profit and nonprofit organizations to document their events through the scope of photography.
I mentor, collaborate, and assist other photographers, including my own team. Given my role as a mentor, community leader, coordinator, and public affairs officer, community advocate, I still find time to teach basic photography and video/media classes at an area Boys and Girls Club, Inc. Various opportunities allows me to her reach young potential photographers and the larger community. In addition to the incorporation of my company and fostering my love of photography in and out of the classroom, I hold membership in the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and Gwinnett Chapter of Georgia Nature Photographers Association. I constantly look for ways to have a steady and influential presence in the field of photography.
With all that I do, I am inspired by all of the spectrums of life: from birth to death, nature and its essence. I like to document people in their truth and true elements: who they are, who they aspire to be, or who they were. My craft is the reflection of all of the people who have helped me, inspired me, mentored me, or who I have met along the way. My photography is a reflection of all that I am and who I aspire to be while capturing moments of time along the way.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
Dream Bigger and Do More! I think so often we limit ourselves by our own limitations, obstacles, and self-doubt. Sometimes, we lose focus while helping others pursue their dreams. Seek out mentors, surround yourself with a strong network, serve and support others.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
Currently, I am talking with different gallery owners throughout Metro Atlanta about displaying my upcoming exhibit(s).
To make a purchase: The online exhibit https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/dedra-walker-howard.
Please continue to follow me on my social media platforms to find out additional information on where you can see and support my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.emoryrosephotography.com
- Email: emoryrosephotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: emoryrosephotography
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/emoryrosepics
- Twitter: @emoryrosepics
- Snapchat: emoryrosephotog
- Pinterest: @emoryrosepics
- Youtube: EmoryRose Production, LLC
- Other: www.dedrawalker.com
Image Credit:
Photo of billboard-Donna McLeod (Photo of Donna McLeod on Billboard:EmoryRose Photography, LLC )
Cigar & Spirits (3 Images inside of the magazine: EmoryRose Photography, LLC @Maduros Cigar Lounge)
All other images: EmoryRose Photography, LLC
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.
