Today we’d like to introduce you to Rey Granger.
Hi Rey, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My photography journey began almost 15 years ago. I just started community college at Chattahoochee Tech in Marietta, studying Automotive Technology. At the time, my family had a small Canon point-and-shoot, which I gladly manned at family functions and randomly during Saturday outings with friends. As an introvert, being the guy with the camera took away some of the edges of socializing at these events and gave me something to talk about, just in case I was cornered by that ol’ familiar foe, ‘small talk’.
Growing up, I never enjoyed the spotlight or excess attention—much to the dismay of my parents, who insisted on piano recitals and church performances. I always found myself either on the outskirts of social events or in a quiet space off to myself. My teenage years would be marked by trying to find a place to belong and an avenue where I could express the chaos that often plagues an introverted mind. Photography provided both for me— a space where I could create, and interact with people, all while behind the camera with the focus (pun intended) not on me.
Regarding photography, I really didn’t come into my own until a bit further on into my college career. After Chattahoochee Tech, I moved to Huntsville, Alabama, to work towards a bachelors degree in Psychology at Oakwood University. By some miracle during my sophomore year, I was able to purchase my first DSLR, which was really a launchpad into portrait photography and a safe space to experiment and create on a different scale.
Now, more than 15 years later, I still enjoy photography, the meaningful moments I get to capture, and the stories that my portraits tell. I’ve been lucky to also work with other creatives who trust me to capture their vision.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The road for the most part, has been a smooth one. However, interestingly enough, my growth in photography has paralleled my growth as a person. I’m sure most people can relate, but growth can oftentimes hurt. I believe the same gifts that make me a good photographer are the same gifts that have held me back at times.
Introversion has allowed me to think, observe, and gather inspiration in order to create really awesome photographs. Photography has given me the opportunity to meet and have meaningful conversations with really phenomenal people, something that I might not have experienced as richly without photography. These experiences have stretched me and taught me a lot. The other side of that introversion—which I don’t mind being honest about—often manifests itself in isolation, which can lead to what a lot of creatives experience: self-doubt, fear, and a healthy amount of imposter syndrome. I don’t know about anyone else, but self-doubt can really have a negative impact on inspiration and the drive to build a successful photography business.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a natural light portrait photographer. My work can be most identified by 1. The use of natural light and 2. The candid feel the subjects have in a lot of my photos. I enjoy interacting with my clients and doing my best to make them feel safe and comfortable to be themselves. I want my clients to look at a photo and feel like they see themselves as they are. As a photographer, I often hear “I’m not photogenic,” which I always encourage “everyone is photogenic.” I think my style is more interactive, which is what sets my photos apart. Throughout the years, I have been able to produce some very authentic images of clients and friends.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to thank my friends who took the chance early on in my photography journey. They really helped me develop my style and build confidence as a young photographer. I love you guys! You know who you are!
Pricing:
- $375 90 Minute creative session
- Wedding packages from $1000 – $2500
Contact Info:
- Email: granger.rey@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jelani/?hl=en
