Today we’d like to introduce you to Cat Harper.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Cat. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’m an Atlanta native and a graduate of Savannah State University in 2009. With a B.A in Mass Communications, concentrating on Radio and Television. Although in college I focused on being behind the cameras, I actually seemed to find myself in front of the cameras, with my acting and her reality show appearances. I’ve always wanted to do both acting and photography. When I got casted to play a photographer on the hit TV Show “Necessary Roughness”, that was the day I realized that it was possible to do both.
Although I’ve done some acting, my true passion is photography. My first job was a small 2 hour photography shop about 14 year years ago. Never would I have know that that job was preparing me for my future. From a photographer assistant to Celebrity Photographer Derek Blanks to opening up my own studio in Atlanta, Ga. Since then I’ve photographed some great names in the industry like Jacob Latimore, Mike Epps, (Americas Next top model) Keith Carlos, Young Joc, Meme Faust, Jamie Grace, Akon and many more. You may see my work at www.CatHarperPhotography.com.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting your own business is always challenging. Just the thought of not knowing. Not knowing what’s next, not knowing what to expecting and not knowing if your decision were the right decisions.
Being an entrepreneur has its pros and it has it’s cons but once you realize that anything worth having is worth working hard for, the challenges become less of a challenge.
Please tell us about Cat Harper Photography.
Many people see me as a celebrity photographer. I’ve photographed a handful of celebrities but my favorite is actually photographing up and coming business owners. I like to see their growth and I’m always so thankful that they have trusted me to be apart.
I believe what sets me apart from others is that I believe that ever photoshoot is more than just a photoshoot. I see a story behind and in front of the lens. I want to know not only what you’re doing the photo shoot for but also why. I also like to follow up with my clients to see how their life is going after they leave the studio. During their shoot, I’m very hands-on for those that are modeling pros and for those that have little to no experience in front of the camera. I try to do my best at making each client feel comfortable including their quest.
What were you like growing up? Personality wise, interest wise, etc.
I was very quiet actually, but very observant. I didn’t talk to many, but those that I did talk to they got to see my BIG personality. I liked creating things and I was very adventurous. In high school, I felt like I didn’t live up to my true potential and I didn’t get to show everyone my true personality. College is when I truly found out who I was.
On the first day, I decided to be free and not be afraid of anything. I spoke to everyone and created many lasting relationships. I am still learning myself and trying to figure this thing out called “life” but I much wiser now than ever.
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