Hidden Gems: Meet Amanda Neeley of AMN Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Neeley.

Amanda, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started dancing at 8 and teaching at 19, and a little over 20 years ago, I began photographing dancers. I’m so thankful to have had the art of dance cultivated in my life in so many ways. From enjoying the classroom work and stage myself to passing on the knowledge I’ve been so privileged to learn from others and capturing dance through the lens, I feel very blessed. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been a smooth road but slow in the beginning. I photograph 20 studios during a short recital season and then a number of aspiring and professional dancers throughout the rest of the year in private studio sessions. It was slow growth. When I started, there was no social media or Instagram to help spread your brand to the masses quickly. So, I had to have patience, visit studios face to face, and get to know people personally to grow my business. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
During dance recital season, I am photographing for studios throughout the metro Atlanta area, but I also travel around the southeast from North Carolina to St. Augustine, Florida, photographing dancers. Studios hire me for social media content sessions using their own dancers rather than having to use stock photos. That has been really fun and makes the advertisement so much more personal for the studio, which helps increase the sharing aspect of their post. Throughout the rest of the year, I photograph dancers looking to add to their portfolio for auditions and their own social media content. When I’m not photographing, you’ll find me in the classroom teaching. I’ve been teaching for over 25 years, and this really gives me an edge when it comes to photographing dancers in particular. They appreciate this eye I’m able to bring to the posing and corrections I can offer to be sure we get the shot! 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Going to smaller photography workshops with photographers doing the work you aspire to is a great option. My favorite one I have attended many times in the past is called After Dark. The groups are small, all the learning is hands-on, and everyone is willing and wanting to share ideas. A newer workshop for aspiring dance photographers is called Pas De Deux. I have found most everyone is willing and wanting to share their knowledge and exchange ideas and what has worked for them. 

Pricing:

• Session fees start at $350 for studio sessions

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amandaneeley.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amnphotographyatl/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmandaNeeleyAMNPhotography