Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Arias.
Alexis, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As long as I can remember, I’ve loved collecting memories. I filled journals with thoughts and pictures as a child, and that obsession continued into college where I studied broadcast journalism and fell even more in love with visual storytelling. After graduation, I became a corporate photographer and videographer, which is where my studio photography training began. I saw a need for specialized child photography when searching for someone to capture what I loved most about my own children — there were newborn photographers and family photographers, but no one who was providing fun, fast shoots for children of all ages with a clean, modern style for an affordable price.
Because I wanted to document my own children in a natural way, I dusted off my camera, purchased some basic equipment, pushed my kitchen table aside, and started to shoot. I shared those images on my Instagram, and overnight I had friends and neighbors knocking on my door for pictures. Candid Kids was born. It’s been almost two years now and I have photographed thousands of children. As I’ve grown, I’ve become even more passionate about my mission to help parents capture the beauty and magic they see in their children. Kids grow up too quickly, and when we freeze a moment we give ourselves the chance to return to it any time we want, and I’m honored to give that gift to as many parents as possible.
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?
Surprisingly, yes! I think because I started this business with just my own children in mind it was able to grow very authentically and organically. Of course, photographing young children has its own set of obstacles, but overcoming those during each shoot is a challenge I love. As I’m looking at each child through my camera lens, I do everything I can to embrace every part of his or her unique personality and let that shine. I’ve found that any profession that involves a child as your client is extremely humbling and rewarding.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Candid Kids Portraits story. Tell us more about the business.
I’m a studio-style photographer specializing in child portraits. I’m known for my clean style that feels both modern and classic, even reminiscent of the photographs our ancestors had done as children. I think what sets me apart from other photographers is my speed. Clients often tell me that my shoots are the easiest they’ve ever had. I’ve also been told I have a way of helping even the shyest of children feel comfortable. What makes me the most proud is when a parents tells me that they cried when they saw their child’s portraits for the first time. I love making parents cry! We love our children so much, and I especially love seeing my work becoming a part of people’s homes, framed on their walls (even life size!) or mailed out in holiday cards. I love that I’ve worked hard at my craft so I can give that to them.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was very focused. I was a classical pianist, singer and dancer. I would say I’m half introvert, half extrovert, and while I’m very goal-oriented, I’m not a perfectionist. I’ve always loved being involved and doing things that involve people, but also alone time, which is why photography is a wonderful career for me. I love the shoots and meeting parents and children, and I also love the editing time where I can focus and get into a flow.
Contact Info:
- Email: candidkidspics@gmail.com
- Instagram: @candid.kids
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidkidspics/
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