Meet Alejandra Torres of AJ’s Lens in Savannah & Miami

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandra Torres.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My love for the camera started when I joined my high school’s film and television program (Firebird TV A.K.A. FBTV) in my sophomore year. I explored broadcast, writing, editing, cinematography, and everything in between and definitely grew to love telling stories with a camera. I even had the privilege of competing around the US with them and we even won first place in an international broadcast competition my senior year! The summer after my senior year, I started doing photography sessions for some people who requested it and realized how much fun I had taking pictures of people. The most rewarding feeling was their reactions when I turned them in and they saw themselves as models! I especially loved working with kid models because the shoots were always so lively, genuine, and energetic. Eventually, I branded myself and created “AJ’s Lens” which is my photography and videography company. This company snowballed and soon I had clients booking me every day for different photoshoots and events. I took some online courses to further develop my portrait photography skills and to better understand how to brand myself and effectively manage my social media. It really showed that if I took my work seriously and professionally, other’s would too. Ever since then, it’s been an uphill ride!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It was definitely difficult for a variety of reasons. First of all, establishing myself as a professional when so many people knew me as just a student was an obstacle I wasn’t sure how to climb. I had trouble figuring out what an appropriate price for my services and time was because I wasn’t sure if people were actually taking me seriously. I still struggle with this sometimes. At the end of the day, it just took me realizing that this is what I want to do with my life, I need to be confident in my work, and I took steps to make sure that I treated all my clients professionally so that they received that energy no matter who they were to me. Another big barrier for me was social media management. It was hard for me to keep up with the posts and figure out a style that worked, etc. That issue came down to the simple question “how badly do you want it?” I had to check myself and remind myself that the only person who needs to put in the work was me. So, I took courses and asked for advice, reached out to professionals, & tested the waters until I found the way that worked for me. It’s been a process and self-doubt/nerves have definitely held me back in the past but it’s something I’m getting better at every single day. The more smiles and positive responses I get when I give a client their pictures or video, the more I realize that the only person holding me back is me. With that said, I think there’s still so so much room for improvement but I’m excited to see where this company and my photography/videography goes.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with AJ’s Lens – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My main goal with my company was to form a photography and videography service that wasn’t so restricted. What I mean by that is that I don’t like to make my shoots timed or super strict by a contract, I simply want to please the customer and be happy with the content I put out. Of course, there’s guidelines and rules that I follow and minimums that I guarantee but I just want the experience of these shoots to be fun, laid back, and genuine because of thats what will be reflected in the photos or footage. My prices are hard to beat and I like to think my shots & photos capture real emotions and moments (which is why I do what I do.) I basically do everything for this company! I figure out the logistics, the times, locations, pricing, set, set design, equipment, crew (if needed), write the contracts, handle customer service, edit, social media management, and everything else that is needed for things to run smoothly. I’m proud of how far I’ve come in just one year of AJ’s Lens. I’m extremely proud that at 19 years old, I’ve managed to mold my appearance from a student who takes pictures to a trusted and respected photographer/videographer in multiple cities that people can come to continuously for their events. I’m currently living in Savannah, GA where I’m studying Advertising and Photography at Savannah College of Art and Design and yet, when I go back to Miami for only a weekend, all of my available slots get booked with shoots and events. That is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Hopefully, AJ’s Lens continues to grow and I continue to grow. I’m hoping to expand my client list in Savannah, GA, and its surrounding areas. I’m currently in the process of further marketing myself here and finding new locations for photo and video shoots. Having seen what can happen in only one year, I’m prepared and excited to see where AJ’s lens and I will be five years from now. This is my passion and I love what I do so I hope to keep attracting clients and making strides to better myself, my skills, and my company.

Pricing:

• Standard Location Photoshoot (1-2 people) $150
• Family Photoshoot (3-6 people) $200
• Videography Recap for Events – $100/hr + $100 one time editing fee (Pay 3 hrs get 1 free)
• Photography for Events – $100 / $50 one time editing fee (Pay 3 hrs get 1 free)

Contact Info:

• Website: ajslens.wixsite.com/portfolio
• Email: ajtorreslens@gmail.com
• Instagram: @ajtorreslens

Image Credit:
AJ’s Lens

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