At age 17, a $200 stipend opportunity (and $100 food card) for the World’s Largest Music Festival sounded like a perfect first, paid gig…
Growing up near Milwaukee allowed me many wonderful opportunities within a short drive from my hometown. At age 17, while looking for photography ‘gig’ opportunities, I saw a Craigslist ad hiring photographers for the World’s Largest Music Festival, Summerfest. My parents were skeptical that the internet ad was real…but after submitting my portfolio, both phone and Skype interviews, I was hired as a freelance photographer. My first paid opportunity motivated me more to learn everything I could about photography, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
From the start of my career, photojournalism has always influenced my style. I've photographed for Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, events, and countless brands.
My experience is a combination of strong mentorship, formal education, and freelancing. I have had the privilege to work with many accomplished photographers while pushing myself to pursue new opportunities. Upon graduating from college, I formally went from a freelance photographer to a small business owner.
Truly as long as I can remember, I've been taking pictures. (Cliche as it sounds...it's a hobby, turned passion, turned business.) Many charities over the years have touched my life and heart due to photographing their events. Giving back with photography is truly an honor. To me, photography is an extension of how I express myself.
As a little girl, I remember paging through National Geographic in my grandmother's living room wondering how those photographers got to be in such magnificent places. Curiosity and practice brought me into many beautiful places, too. Thank you for the opportunity to share my love of photography with you!
Best,
Alyce
