Today we’d like to introduce you to Roy Handy.
Roy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Before photography, I majored in Graphic Design in college. My senior year I decided to take basic photography class, became extremely interested in studying and learning about photography, and asked my professor (Donald Allen Cooley) if, after graduation, he could help me perfect my craft. I put in countless hours of studying and practicing both photography and graphic design, until it hit me. I literally could merge both worlds together to create these remarkable pieces of artwork. And from that point on, I gained a flow and rhythm, and I found my own specific style of shooting and composing photographs.
Has it been a smooth road?
I mean honestly, is any road ever really smooth? I mean, yea you try to pave over it and bandage the rugged edges, but underneath all that is still unsolved issues. So, no, the road was not smooth at all, and I’ll be pretty open about this. Right out of college I couldn’t land a job anywhere, so I took a lot of time just to freelance and build my brand up to professional standards. I was forced to learn entrepreneurship because, well quite frankly, I had to pay bills and had no flowing source of income. Photography pretty much saved my life, because not only did it help me get through hard times mentally, it helped me financially when I didn’t have much to my name but a camera and talent. I’d a ton of mistakes along the way, but falling is the best way to learn and pick yourself up to do better. When I look back at it all though, I appreciate the struggle I had to endure to get to a point of success and growth within my career. It not only made me a better artist, but it’s molding me into a better man overall.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am my “company” or “brand” if you will. Most people know of me through my social media handle @Old_Orleans. I specialize in portrait photography, visual design and branding, as well as digital illustrations. Even though I have multiple services, most people identify me as a photographer solely because I market that work the heaviest through social media platforms. Through my photography work, I use natural elements (flowers, butterflies, birds, etc.) to conceptually coincide with reality. I don’t like to follow many trends or make art that ANYONE can make. I love creating things that challenge your mind and make you wonder how it was done or what method was used to even comprehend what it is they are viewing.
Within 2 years of doing photography, developing my own style, and building a brand for myself, I’ve had my work showcased multiple times in a variety of media outlets such as Essence Magazine and Fader Magazine. Accomplishing these things are never taken lightly, especially since this is just the beginning of my career as an artist.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Atlanta is a beautiful place that is constantly growing for artists. I do believe it is a great place for artists to grow and build from, but of course, there MUST be a way you set yourself apart from everyone else so you can rise above the norm.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.royehandy.com
- Email: royhandy3@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/old_orleans/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Old_Orleans
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