Community Highlights: Meet Erica Bowdre of Sharper Lens Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Bowdre.  

Hi Erica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Wow! Where do I start? I was born in Valdosta, GA, but was partially raised as an Air Force brat as my mom was in the United States Air Force. When she retired, I was still young and we made our way back to my hometown. I was blessed to be raised by incredible parents who taught me the value of hard work and always have my best interest at heart. I am the only girl of three children and my brothers are very dear to me. I cheered all the way through my college years at Kennesaw State University and was always involved in church and many extracurricular activities growing up. Two years into my journey at KSU, I met my loving husband Barry of almost four years and we have built a life together that is beyond some of my wildest dreams. The support of both my immediate and extended families is undoubtedly what keeps me going.

I have always been an extroverted introvert in a sense. Many would consider me outgoing, and as I’ve matured, I tend to find just as much solace in my alone time as I do spend time with others. I have always enjoyed writing, telling the stories of both myself and others, and making others feel good about themselves. It’s how I knew I wanted to start my photography business. Growing up, I was always requesting a digital camera as a Christmas gift or buying those disposable ones from Walmart anytime we had a family trip or other activity planned. I wanted to capture special moments and “boost people up” as we like to call it these days.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, but I would not change a thing. After I graduated from KSU with my Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations (PR) in 2017, I signed a new contract with the plan that I would have a short career in Journalism that I would eventually shift to PR. Well, about a year or so into my two-year contract, my desires for my career completely changed, and it was stressful and upsetting for me. Even though my short news career allowed me to meet so many wonderful people and have some awesome experiences, I decided I was not getting much fulfillment out of my current position, which led me to a lot of soul searching about my next move and my purpose in life. I felt lost, afraid, and as if I was potentially letting some of the people around me down.

I had a few awesome mentors in the news business and beyond as I was part of the Emma Bowen Foundation’s four-year internship program and I also had two stints interning at WSB-TV in Atlanta during my college career. It took much prayer, patience, and self-discovery for me to accept my decision and allow myself to pivot without guilt and fear. I now work in higher education in addition to my photography business and I am so content and fulfilled by working with others and helping them reach their goals and navigate their own journeys of self-discovery and confidence!

It was in the in-between time of deciding I would not sign another news contract and shifting my career that I combined my talents and gifts to start my photography business in March of 2019. It has thrived beyond my wildest dreams, and I feel blessed to grant my clients the memories and confidence boosts they deserve on a regular basis.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I own a photography business named Sharper Lens Photography, which is a play on my maiden’s name. I offer several different types of sessions including senior/graduation, family, events, and more. I am especially known for shooting senior photos and while I enjoy all of my sessions, senior sessions hold a special place in my heart. There is just something about getting to join in on making memories for such a huge moment in someone’s life!

One thing I am confident sets me apart from others is my passion for not just taking the photos but ensuring that the individual gets fulfillment and enjoyment out of their session. Oftentimes, my shyest clients are posing and more open than ever by the time we are halfway through their session. I am patient with my clients no matter their age and am always taking the time to make sure they look and feel their best before I start snapping away. I believe photo sessions should always be a joyful and memorable experience.

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Absolutely! One of my favorites would have to be a family trip to the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area when I was younger. We stayed at the Hard Rock Café, which had one of the best pool experiences ever! Me and my brothers love to swim, so we definitely took advantage. It was just great vibes with my immediate family that I will never forget. It’s what life is all about honesty. In addition to that vacation, I have a lot of great memories with my family like trips to amusement parks, extended family reunions and gatherings, and so much more!

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.sharperlensphotos.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharperlensphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SharperLensPhotography/