Photographer Q&A: Alexandria Murray
Meet the founder of Viva Lux Photography and owner of Blanc Studio West in Atlanta, GA.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself and your career.
A: I’ve been a photographer for about five years now; six come this October. I think my favorite part of the job is seeing a client’s vision come to fruition. Being creative fuels my soul. Creating images that freeze a moment in time to tell a story is so important to me.
Q: The majority of your photography revolves around fashion, beauty and influencer style. How has your personal brand evolved and where would you like to see it go?
A: I first started shooting for my mother’s boutique, so I’ve always had an eye for fashion. As I grew as a photographer, I wanted to grow with other clients so I moved into the blogger realm. While I am still working with a few bloggers, I am focused on expanding my brand into more editorial and commercial photography. I have never swayed from fashion as it is my true passion, but I hope to evolve into a published fashion photographer and to work with larger brands and clients, like Harper’s Bazaar.
Q: You recently opened your own studio and event space, Blanc Studio West. What inspired you to take the leap?
A: I felt as if there was a hole in rental spaces here in Atlanta; specifically ones that catered to both photographers as well as other creatives. I wanted a white space that offered more to the photographer than just blank walls but also a fully furnished studio that gave a creative more to work with within the environment.
Q: What’s a typical day like for you?
A: Right now, my life is a bit hectic as I’m running two small businesses. But I am very type-A and have to stick to a routine to function 100%. I wake up every day at 6am. I always make the bed. I have my coffee. I would like to say I work out but let’s be real—right now that is definitely not on my horizon. By 8am I am usually on my way to open the studio for the day where I’ll work on editing client images, answering emails, and letting clients in who rented the studio.
On other days, I might be heading to a shoot. I try leave the studio and head home around 4pm, where I cook dinner for my husband. After we eat, I typically head back to the computer to finish up any editing or answer remaining emails. I try to shut everything down by 7pm, but sometimes those deadlines don’t let that happen. I try head to bed by 9pm.
Q: What are three fun facts about you that we might not know?
I have three frenchies that I’m completely obsessed with: Hubert, Delilah, and Reginald.
I am completely self-taught as a photographer—hello YouTube tutorials!
I love to travel but I am petrified of flying. I know, hilarious.
Q: Who inspires you?
I am inspired by Lara Jade Photography. Her career, her imagery, and knowledge is all something I aspire to. I’m also a fan of @sarahwisted, @madibenard, @katebaronesalon, @jjsflowershop, @atlgirlgang.
Q: Despite the current coronavirus chaos, what’s next for you, and how can the community help support your business?
A: I’m trying to navigate not having an income at the moment and figuring out how to take my business digital to keep both of my small businesses afloat. I have just released gift cards that can be purchased to use towards future studio rentals, and we are offering membership to Blanc Studio West. More information is available on our website.
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Want to support Allie?
Keep up with the talented photog on Instagram via @vivaluxphotography and @blancstudiowest.