Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Simmons.
Erica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started my photography journey as a hobby. My husband bought me my first camera, so I started playing around with it. I was in a horrible car accident that left me bedridden for a few months, so I figured that was the perfect time to learn and get better. Although I got better over time, I still never thought to make a career of it. I would pick up my camera, then put it down for a while, then I’d pick it back up again. I did that for a while. I got paid here and there, but never took myself seriously. My husband and I moved to Macon in 2012 and I started shooting again here and there. I went back to school and graduated with a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies. I took a lot of film/media and art classes, but photography was still in the back of my mind. Fast forward, we moved back to Atlanta, now with a baby girl. I was applying for a position at GA Tech, but that wasn’t panning out.
My friend Mattie James was looking for a personal photographer to work for her company. I was so excited to learn from her and to get acclimated to the blogger/ influencer world. She is really the one who pushed me to make this my career. The more we shot, the bigger my love for photography became. When I had to travel with her for work, I was hooked. I finally saw myself making a living and supporting my family off of something I loved to do.
It’s very hard work. I’ve never had a business bone in my body, but I know God spared my life for a reason, so I plan to answer the call. This ride has been so amazing. I have had the opportunity to shoot for major brands, as well as medical professionals and people who desire to start their own business.
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?
I have definitely had some challenges, however, not necessarily a lot of tangible obstacles. A lot of my challenges are internal. There are some crazy talented photographers in Atlanta, so having to push out that voice of doubt on a daily bases is one of my greatest challenges. I was always afraid to put myself out there, so stopping the comparison game and changing my mindset has been a struggle. Having a great support system is vital to success, I believe. My husband is my biggest and loudest cheerleader!
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a branding and lifestyle photographer, so I primarily shoot people who have small businesses or people trying to establish their personal brand.
I am known for my natural style of photography. I prefer a bright and clean aesthetic.
What I am most proud of is my integrity as a photographer. People can sense a genuine spirit. I believe that beautiful photos are only part of the experience. My clients know that I’m just as invested in their brand as they are, which make for true and realistic photos.
What were you like growing up?
I was, and still am, very much an extrovert. I have never been afraid to be the only one on the dance floor. I have always been a dreamer and the eternal optimist. I was always that one talking to the awkward kid and helping them break out of their shell.
I always had a smile on my face and I always believed that there was something to smile about.
Golden Girls and tacos were, and very much still, my favorite things.
I grew up listening to all kinds of music. My mom was listening to everything from The Carpenters to Luther Vandross to Richard Smallwood. I have a musical family, so that was a big influence on me. My mom and dad were the most awesome parents I could ask for. They were very supportive of everything I wanted to do and they never stopped me from being myself. I’m very blessed to have them in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: ericajsimmons.com
- Email: erica@ericajsimmons.com
- Instagram: @ericajsimmons
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