Today we’d like to introduce you to Malani Lovings.
Malani, 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 photography as a therapeutic way to feel empowered and in control of my life again. After undergoing chemotherapy treatment and losing my father who greatly encouraged me to step into the platform of entrepreneurship, I threw caution to the wind, came up with a business plan and started creating and allowing the journey to reveal itself to me. I engross myself in the art of photography as a means to combat the under-representation of marginalized people; as an African-American, female artist, I feel I have insight into the value of being able to tell my story and experience the narratives of other’s lives, giving them voice and context through captivating imagery.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I prayed and put in effort and preparation for a smooth road to business and instead was met with many challenges… as well as many accomplishments greater than I could have asked for. So, I wouldn’t deem the road smooth, but it is certainly worth traveling down. I started my business in January 2019 while overcoming health struggles and managed to win an award in photography, showcase at the House of Blues, photograph Orange County fashion week and become published in numerous fashion magazines within months of starting up… then in January 2020, with new plans on the horizon, I found myself along with the rest of world in the midst of a pandemic and government shutdowns that prevented much of my regular work. I’ve adapted and continue to research how to best service my clientele virtually by adjusting package offerings, hosting virtual consultations, and offering a streamlined remote process from initial booking to final gallery presentation with the exception of the photoshoot itself, so my clients’ only in-person interaction with me is limited for safety reasons but fully customized and refined to accomplish their vision.
Wildflower Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I specialize in fine art portraits for clients interested in a unique session that will connect the viewer. I photograph, edit, and print my art as well as offer general videography services with my colleague and husband Harlan Lovings. Together, we offer branding sessions, commercial photography, event and wedding photography and lifestyle media services.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I am most proud to have as many supporters for my career as I do! Community support and bookings have greatly been appreciated and allow me to continue investing in my passion and dream of offering visibility and relevance to a generation of underestimated artists, myself included. Participating in showcases and watching people purchase art from my community sends blood pumping through my creative veins! So many of my customers say photographing with me is their first experience with a professional photographer, and they become repeat customers that allow me to capture their families, life milestones, and most treasured moments. The feeling of pride from this support is unequivocally unmatched.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wildflowerphotog.myportfolio.com
- Email: wildflowerphotography01@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildflowerlovings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildflowerlovings/
Image Credit:
Photographer: Malani Lovings
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