My [Former] Life as a Photographer

I probably get close to five calls per week from people asking about photography. And every time I have to remind them that I don't shoot anymore, I feel a little bit of guilt. I stopped shooting last spring and officially closed my business on it's 4th birthday in September. Yet, there are still moments that I feel like I did the wrong thing. 

I'm sure you're asking "But why did you stop shooting?" and "Why did you close your business?"

The simple answer: I didn't enjoy it anymore. 

My brother and sis-in-law on baby #2. New baby coming in 30 days! 

The not-so-simple answer below: 

I've wanted to be a photographer for as long as I can remember. In the 5th grade I was given the school's disposable camera and told to take photos of my classmates for the school newsletter of which I was also the "editor". I took that job seriously. By the end of the week I still had four pictures left on the roll and had decided to leave those for individual shots of myself and the other "writers". What kind of kid was I? Neurotic. 

Fast forward to high school and once again I was asked to become one of the photographers for my school. This time, it was for the yearbook of which I was Co-Editor. Same as before I took that job way too seriously; I even coaxed my parents into buying me a Canon SLR for my 16th birthday. I was hooked, but never considered it more than a hobby.

It wasn't until I'd graduated from Howard with a degree in broadcast journalism that I realized I had a real passion for both photography and film — one of the two things I should have majored in. 

So, with a degree in my hand and the looming start of law school before me, I made the choice to do the thing I loved. I canceled my law school plans, moved back to the "great" state of Alabama and used the money from a summer job to buy everything I needed to start a photography business. My parents, ever supportive, encouraged me every step of the way. 

I was happy. And within one month of starting my business I had booked two weddings. 

One of my all time favorite couples and friends.

Now, I'm sure you're thinking this is no indication of how things ended, but I need you to know how much I loved photography. 

Fast forward three years and there I was sitting at my computer working on budgets and returning emails thinking I hate this. People were booking me, but canceling the same day even though they knew they wouldn't get their deposit back. Others were showing up at their shoots, seeing their preview sites and raving about how much they loved the photos, but never purchasing a single one. Or worse, taking screenshots and posting those. Still, the best group were those who just wanted me to post their wedding photos on Facebook (and tag them, of course) in hopes that it would lessen the cost. 

It just didn't make sense. People said they loved my images, but told me that I charged too much? Don't you pay for things that you love?  I wouldn't budge on my prices. Sue Bryce, Sarah Petty and Amanda Holloway had all told me in one way or another that I shouldn't charge less than I deserve. Plus, they all lived in small towns, too. What was wrong with me?

I wanted to quit right then, but I read a few Sarah Petty blogs and watched a few Sue Bryce classes on Creative Live and decided to forge on. 

Then the BIG ONE happened; the moment that I knew this was becoming too much. Another local photographer started messaging people on Facebook who would comment on my photos asking about pricing, sessions, etc. and telling them pretty bad lies about myself and my business. I cancelled on people, didn't show up for sessions and never gave people back their money. None of these things ever  happened, but when you live in Small Town, USA reputation trumps facts any day. 

I had no clue this was happening, but I did notice that people who had reached out said nothing when I sent them my beautifully designed welcome guide and pricing menu. It wasn't until a friend of mine and a local business owner both had an encounter with one of these couples that I found out. I was exhausted and tired of it all. 

Gorgeous little model and actress who is headlining a bullying campaign now!

I decided to do one more round of senior session as a last effort to redeem my business. I even lowered my prices for the first time ever. This ended in a mom dropping her daughter off at the location and never returning because she didn't have the money to pay me the remainder of her balance, which usually meant that I wouldn't shoot. Yet, how do you look at a kid whose parent just drove off and tell them we're going to just stand here until she returns with my money? I shot that session. It took six months and another mutual friend intervening for me to even hear from this lady again. I really just wanted her daughter to have those pictures. I had already written it off at this point, so I declined her offer to pay. My business was closed. 

Local MUA and one of my cousins who is doing AMAZING things. 

Today: 

I miss shooting. I miss branding. I miss watching Creative Live like a crazy lady so that I can get better at my craft. But I think I made the right decision. And all's not lost. I still get to shoot thanks to my brother and sister-in-laws ever growing family and my little church sisters forcing me to shoot their weddings this year. So, for now, that will have to do.

And honestly, I think it all worked out for the best. I have great new projects that I'm working on and I'm really very grateful for all of my former clients. Good, not so good and everything in-between.

Have you ever had to quit something you loved a lot? Was it worth it? Do you regret it?

Always in love, 

Whit

Whit & Life Happens

I'm sure you've all been wondering where I've been. *Note that was sarcasm. But just in case a few people read this, I figured I should explain myself.

I like lists, so here's my "Why I Haven't Blogged in Months" List: 

1. Someone accused me of stealing whit&love from them although I have the domain and all social handles. Thus I had to go through a lot to make sure no one would try this again. Unfortunately, it meant that I needed to take a break until it was all resolved. 

2. I'm a horrible human and have not been taking great care of myself and found myself pretty sick the last few weeks. Quick visit to the doctor revealed that my iron was extremely low. A few days of supplements and I feel better than I have in a very long time. Go to the doctor, folks. It works! 

3. I just haven't felt like blogging. With all that's going on in the world, I felt like I should be using my powers to aid in those issues instead of writing about my favorite mascara (not to diss those who blog about those things). I'm an activist at heart and sometimes I have to make the causes I believe in a priority. Recently, that's been my focus and I wasn't sure if my blog was he place to share that side of me (yet). But I will. 

So am I ready to come back to blogging full throttle? Nah. But I am back.

always in love,

Whitney 

The List: Little Joys from the Weekend

Let's just say three day weekends are perfect, but four day weekends are straight from heaven. Trust me. And that idea alone could have been the extent of this week's list, but there were more little joys along the way. And since that doesn't happen frequently, I figured I should document it for the next time I decide to complain. I hope your Memorial Day weekend was wonderful and full of purpose as well. 

1. The #BeyonceAlwaysonBeat hashtag. (No explanation needed)

2. Performing at the most beautiful venue on Saturday night with my brother and sister-in-law

If you live in or near Albertville,  AL you MUST check out Sebastien's on Main! 

3. Finally figuring out what Master's degree I want to pursue. (This has taken me 4 years)

4. Crying WITH a CNN anchor who was really touched by a story about Memorial Day and the children who go to visit their loved ones at Arlington National Cemetery.

That's really what the day is all about, folks. I hope we all remembered the sacrifices that were made.

5. And yes, waking up on Monday and remembering that I didn't have to go to work.

Now I'm off to work a 10 hour day! Yay.


Always in Love,

Style: Hey Mama!

Since it was Mother's Day I decided to get a bit dressed up for church (read: my mother may have suggested that I dress up more than usual even though I dress up all the time). I snagged this skirt a few months a go and found a shirt that matched it perfectly over the weekend. I think I did pretty well considering everyone thought this was a dress. Also, no one thought I was a kid today. In fact, someone thought I was the mother of a teenager! YAY! I'm always trying not to look 17 so this was positive for me. 

Anyway, I hope all of you mamas out there enjoyed your day and I hope all you kiddos treated your moms like the Queens they are. I sure did! 

Crotchet Top - TJ Maxx | Crotchet Skirt - Cato | Shoes - Carlos Santana (old) | Bracelet - TJ Maxx (similar) | Glasses - Random Mall Cart (similar)  | Earrings - H&M | Lippie - Aria by Nyx 

For the Modern Graduate

You'll never know I don't like a gift. That is until you never see me wear, use or display said gift. When you're graduating from college, you really want things that are practical, that can help you in the next stage of your life or that will motivate you. It's that simple. Sorry Grandma, that means no socks. 

So, when money seems a little too impersonal (although money is NEVER a bad idea) and an all expense paid trip to some place exotic just isn't happening, think about what every modern twenty-something wants. Have no clue? Check out our gift guide below for a little inspiration! 

1.Canon Powershot SX610 HS | 2. HBCU Grad T-shirt  | 3. Customized Luggage Tags 

| 4. Friendly Headphones | 5. Electric Wine Bottle Opener | 6. Kate Spade Passport Wallet 

| 7. Rockland Expandable Luggage  | 8. Mophie Phone Case  | 9. Decorative Pillows  

| 10. iHome Mini Speaker | 11. MyTaughtYou Excellent Mug 

| 12. Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In for Graduates | 13. Apple Watch Sport

Skills for the Road

No matter what you're getting your degree in, there are some basic skills that you cannot leave college without. This is especially true if you're graduating and do not have a job or post-graduate study lined up. Job searching or applying for a graduate/professional program can be stressful if you feel like you do not have the qualifications.

Check out some of the skills below and see if you have mastered them. If not, take some time to do it. You'll be glad you did.

Crafting an Outstanding Resume 

Do you know how many resumes are seen by employers everyday? Me either, but I can only imagine.  These days people are applying for jobs like crazy whether they are qualified for them or not because they need to work. The best way to stand out amongst that many people is to have a killer resume. 

Many companies still prefer those black and white resumes, but you now have a little freedom to add some color; usually just one. Most importantly, focus on the content. The top to bottom rule is still golden. So, put all of your most relevant info at the top. 

Buy template here

Buy template here

Get some digital skills

Whether it's website design, coding or basic video or photo editing, having these skills on your resume makes you look for appealing. One of my first jobs at the college where I work now was in public relations. My degree is in broadcast journalism, which isn't exactly public relations. Yet, I had photo and video editing skills and proven social media experience. Where I lacked in experience (i.e. writing press releases), I made up for in other skills that the office definitely needed. Even if you're planning to work at a financial institution, having the ability to run social media for a company or perform some basic coding work can really be an asset. 

And there are resources all around you. I'm currently learning how to code through the website Codecademy. I learned everything I know about photography through Creative Live. And I'm currently looking into some classes on iTunesU to learn some basic graphic design skills. Keep learning. You will need more skills than those within your degree. Trust me! 

Branding Yourself

No, you don't have to be starting or running a business to care about branding. The most important brand in your life is yourself. I know, you hate the word brand and you don't want to consider yourself a brand, but the truth is to employers and even grad schools you are a brand. 

When you apply, they are searching for you on Google. They are looking at your social media. So, you have to be sure that what they find is what you want them to see. Be smart and intentional. Create an online presence that makes someone want to hire you or at least meet you. It's not guaranteed, but getting serious about your personal brand can't hurt you. 

What skills do you think you need for you post grad life? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me @whitandlove! 

Always in love, 

The List: 5 Things, 5 Years

Next week marks five years since I completed college. WHAT? When I think about these last five years, the most prevalent thought that comes to my mind is how much I wish I had known the day I was released graduated from college.

I probably would have traveled through these last five years much differently if I had taken a chill pill that May and realized that I would be robbing myself of some of the best moments of my life if I didn't. But I didn't and I did. Only within the last year has that completely hit me. I've always been a late bloomer, so I thought I'd share this bit of knowledge with others who may, like me, have forgotten the beauty in this moment called graduation. 

So, here are 5 things I wish I had known 5 years ago.

Can't see the images? Check out the reader view of The List here. 

No matter how you walk away from graduation – 4.0 or 2.5. Next move mapped or no clue – remember that these are some of the best moments of your life. You're growing up and it's a little scary, but it can be quite an adventure if you open up to it. 

Always in love, 

College Grad Week!

Join me this week as I talk about my time in college, advice I wish I had been given and tips for navigating the waters after graduation. Know someone that's graduating this year? Send them over! And even if you aren't exactly a "recent" graduate, you may find that these tips can help at any stage of life. Happy Graduation everyone! 

Always in love, 

Express Yourself: How to Start Vlogging

My friends are so used to seeing me running around with my little camera now that they even get excited to see me coming again. I'm a vlogger now (albeit, not a poster of said vlogs in recent weeks), but I wasn't always a huge fan of vlogs.

When I first saw that people were posting their daily lives or tutorials for various things on Youtube, I didn't get the excitement. Then I spent one day in with strep throat or some similar ailment and I was HOOKED.

Now, there are SO many vlogs out there that I watch. I'm currently obsessed with The Lavigne Life, BritPopLife and Life with the Logans for lifestyle vlogs. And then there's Shirley B. Eniang, Jenn from ClothesEncounters and Patricia Bright for beauty vlogs. I could go on forever.

Somehow after watching these awesome people vlog, I decided I wanted to start my own. That was crazy. And It wasn't as simple as being a fan, but I couldn't resist.

There's so much to know, but I'll try to share a bit below!

GETTING STARTED


Who are you vlogging for?

What I love so much about each of the vlogs I follow is that they know who they are vlogging for. They are authentic and they cater to their audience so well. And I think that's where a lot of vloggers fail. Including myself. May sound simple, but vlog what you know.

I tried, out of the gate, to launch a lifestyle vlog (as in a vlog that showcases what I do in my everyday life) without actually having a fan base. If your goal is to do this kind of vlog, I would suggest starting with tutorial videos; videos that teach people about something that you know a lot about or videos talking about a topic you're passionate about.

If your goal is to be a beauty vlogger, or DIY vlogger or anything similar, the advice I see all of the big time vloggers giving is this: PRODUCE A LOT OF CONTENT and then produce some more. Youtube is vast, but if you're consistent people will find you and slowly you will see those views climb.

What do you need? 

Never type into Google or Youtube or anything 'what kind of camera do I need for vlogging?"
NEVER. You will instantly become overwhelmed.

There is no magic answer. Everyone uses something different. And if people use the same thing, in a few short months they will all be using something else. When I first started researching, everyone was using the Canon Rebel T3i. Very soon after, everyone switched to the Sony Alpha series. I couldn't keep up, so I quit trying and I just decided to go with what I could afford and what seemed simple.

Here's what I use:

For lifestyle or behind the scenes vlogging

Camera:
NikonJ1 (pros: Interchangeable lens & 1080p HD video; cons: Records in 20 min. intervals)

Lighting:
Natural light (whatever is around me)

Editing software: 
Adobe Premiere Pro CC (I pay for it monthly in the Adobe Creative Cloud) or iMovie

Publish to:
Youtube (best place to upload and share these types of vlogs)


For stationary videos (tutorials,Youtube tags and other videos where I'm just sitting and talking) 

Camera: 
Nikon D3000

Lighting: 
Two umbrella lights or Two softboxes (depends on the outside lighting)

Editing Software: 
Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Publish to: 
Youtube


For all other video projects ( commercials, interviews, etc.) 

Camera: 
Nikon D810

Lighting: 
Natural light, reflectors, LED light attachment

Editing Software: 
Final Cut Pro 10

Publish to:
Vimeo (better for more professional videos that you wish to embed on a site)



I know this was a long post, but I hope it helps someone!


I'm not sure why I haven't thought about this topic as a blog post, but thanks to a fellow Bham Blogger over at CanUEmagine.com  for the question on Twitter today. I love our blogger community!


Always in love,

The List: Monday Morning Playlist

Today's list is probably my favorite one so far. The weekend was CRAZY busy with it being Resurrection Sunday and all that jazz. So, Monday just seemed like a rude interruption to my sleep plans. In an effort to cure myself of the grumpies, I made a killer playlist for my morning routine.

Wanna here it? Here it goes. 

1. Janelle Monae - Yoga 

2. Taylor Swift - Out of the Woods 

3. Meghan Trainor - Lips are Movin

4. Ari Lennox - Mumbles 

4. Gwen Stefani - Hollaback Girl 

5. Beyonce - 7/11

6. Wale - Lotus Flower Bomb

7. Superstition - Stevie Wonder

8. King - The Story 

Always in love,

TALKIN': Dating in the Modern Age

A few years ago, I thought about writing a book. Said book was to be called TALKIN'. It is one of my least favorite words to ever arise in the English language (in context of course).  I hate it more than bae and even more than fleek.

Some of you may not be aware of the definition in this context. So, let me break it down so it can forever and consistently be broke (sorry,had to). 

TALKIN' (verb. tahl - kin) - A dating stage that denotes that you and another person are together but it's not an actual relationship. Dating limbo. Dating purgatory. THE WORST. 

As a twenty-something living in America, I have experienced several degrees of "talkin". From the guy who just wants to text me ALL THE TIME to the guy who only wants to see me like once a month. I have even heard a few guys tell their "brilliant" friends that our year worth of love texts, cultural outings and weekend Netflix marathons equated to us "just talkin". In my simple mind, I was said genius' girlfriend. But upon hearing his declaration of us "just talkin", the just making it worse, I knew that this was a situation destined to go very few places. Speaking of situation, I've heard an actual guy refer to his long-time girlfriend as a situation. How Sway?

Now, some people believe that if you wait long enough that the "talkin" stage will end. Is this true? Sometimes. There are folks out there who have emerged from the talkin' stage victorious. I love those people, but I haven't met them. In my limited years and experience, every time I find myself in a "talkin" situation it never ends until I end it or someone "loses their phone and all of their contacts."

You may be saying, "You have to demand it", "You have to tell them you want to move things forward", "You can't wait on them to always make the first move". Did it. Tried it. Moved. Several times. I think "talkers" are just not interested in really dating. :insert quote about not talking about it but being about it here::

Listen, this is a real problem. I know women my age who say they've never had boyfriends. When I think about it, I haven't every really had BOYFRIEND. A guy who has said that I'm his girlfriend and has walked around holding my hand in public in front of his friends and introduced me to his parents. Nope. Never. Not once. I've dated a few guys and have gone on dates, but if I were to classify my relationships, they've all been a different degree of "talkin" or "just talkin".

Maybe it's me. Maybe not. I'm willing to accept either of these truths. Either way, I'm on a mission to obliterate this word and the accompanying actions.

And, no, there's no conclusion here. No, plot twist. I'm just talking.

Let me know if you have thoughts, however. The comments are open or you can tweet me @whitandlove! I'll even listen if you want to tell me about how you went from talkin' to married and now you're skipping around in Story Brooke hand in hand. ::eye roll::


Le sigh.

Always in love,

The List: Selma 50

If you haven't already guessed, I'm completely in love with African-American history. In fact, it was my minor in college and potentially what I plan to study in a post-graduate program. So, there was no way I was missing the Bridge Crossing Jubilee this weekend in Selma in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.

I haven't tweeted or posted on Facebook about this experience and I've only posted on Instagram once. I couldn't find the words. I couldn't muster up the courage to speak on something so perfect. Words would just taint it.

But I think I'm ready to share a bit from these two days that forever changed me. Some of what I felt, I want to hold on to like a secret between two young friends. Some of it, I want to wait and tell my (potential) children. It was a sacred moment and I reminded myself periodically throughout those two days not to forget to take it all in. Remember what you smell. Remember who you see. Remember what the sky looked like. 

On Sunday, before we crossed the bridge, I put my phone on airplane mode and stuck it in my backpack. I didn't want to call anyone or text or be tempted to Tweet about it. I just wanted to experience it.

As we crossed the bridge singing, I thanked God for letting me live in this time. I thanked Him for letting me experience this with my brother and sister-in-law. And mostly I thanked him for all of those brave people who thought enough of others to risk life and limb for something we take for granted today. Yes, we were there to celebrate but we were also there to stand in solidarity and to remind the world that we are still fighting for voting rights. It was a sobering moment but also one that filled me with hope.

So, today's list, is a list of one (not sure if that's really a list, but it's my blog lol); dedicated to the person who moved me the most this weekend. I had the honor of meeting him once while in college and this weekend I was so honored to hear him speak again. I hope we never forget his service and sacrifice. He's one of the last living heroes from that era and I pray we fill the remainder of his life with gratitude and love.

1. Congressman John Lewis 

Congressman Lewis pictured here with Selma director Ava Duvernay and actor David Oyelowo

Always in love,

The List: Pride

I hate awards shows. I really do. After the red carpet is over, you're literally sitting there watching people sit in seats and walk up to accept trophies with a couple of strange performances in between. Blame it on every school awards day and cheerleading banquet I've had to sit through in my life.

Last night's Academy Awards were a bit different, however. I really enjoyed the entire night. I mean, did you hear Lady Gaga? I'm so glad that my arguments of how well trained of a signer she is have finally been validated. This woman sings!

But most significant for me, was the performance and subsequent acceptance speech by John Legend and Common.

Here's a fun fact about me: I ADORE John Legend. So much that I quit following him on Twitter when he married her. And no I don't just love him because he's adorably handsome or just because his velvety voice makes you want to shout hallelujah. I also love him because he is intelligent and cares so deeply about his community. But the universe has conspired to keep us away from one another (another post for another day). And yes I feel the same way about Common, I mean, c'mon, this man has been enlightening us for years. And he's not too hard on the eyes, either.

Last night, however, my love deepened to a place that can't be described. They proved to the world that they are more than entertainers; a fact that many in the community have known for years. I am so proud to call them some of the leaders of our generation. So proud that they are continuing the work of our ancestors and all who have fought for equality in this country and beyond. To use a moment where you are being given one of the world's highest honors to speak about justice for all, the prison industrial complex and the threatening of the Voting Rights Act is just awe inspiring. And worthy of every tear that was shed; tears of remembrance and appreciation. 

These men and the entire cast of Selma have done nothing but make me proud. They have walked in this moment with such poise and grace and I am grateful to them for the example they have set. 

So, I dedicate this list to them. 

1. John Legend 

2. Common

3. Ava DuVernay

4. Selma cast & crew 

always in love, 

Vlog #4 - You Ain't Lived

On this week's vlog, my sis-in-law Frances, my brother Brandon, our bandmate Juston and I go on a field trip. Brandon, Frances and I also take a mini roadtrip to Fairfield for Miles College's homecoming as well as the Magic City Classic. Frances and I also spent a lot of time saying HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Forgive us. We LOVED college.

                

The List: My Weekend

Two things happened this weekend. One was perfection. One was the opposite of perfection. A fail? A tragedy? Well, whatever it is it happened. Needless to say, this Valentine's Day will be one for the books. And I didn't even have a Valentine. Way to go, Whitney.


1. I went to see the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Atlanta. 

I normally just make this a list, but let me just say this is beauty personified. I felt every emotion imaginable during this performance. Words are not enough. So, I've included a video for your enjoyment and understanding.




2. All of the money in my checking account is gone bye bye. 
No clue how. No clue why, but it happened right as I was sitting in the "fabulous" Fox Theatre enjoying the a fore mentioned perfect show. I'm not stressed. I'm still in shock, I guess.


How was your weekend? Did you enjoy your Valentine's Day? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me @whitandlove!

Vlog #3 Whitney Doesn't Wear Glasses

Still catching you guys up on our vlogs, which means you'll get a vlog today and tomorrow!
Hopefully that will bring us up to speed and into 2015.

We just started filming again for 2015, so you'll get to see my life from today forward starting next week. So, be sure to check back every Thursday for more of my crazy crazy life. Enjoy!





Always in love,

The List: The Grammys

Since I'm a musician and last night was music's biggest night, I just had to dedicate this week's list to the Grammys. Now, I'm sure everyone will be talkng about their favorite moments today and while I'd love to write a full dissertation on Kanye West (yes, I love Kanye) or the perfection that was Usher and that amazing harpist, I won't. My list, instead, is about the plethora of AWKWARD moments during the night. And boy were there a lot. I'll give you 5.


1. The whole moment that was the red carpet interview with Ryan Seacrest and Mr. & Mrs. West. But Kanye was kind of, sort of, right.

                                                 


2. Sia...and Maddie. I loved this duo at first, but now, it's getting out of hand.

CREDIT: Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS

3. Madonna. ::palm to face::

              


4. Rihanna's arrival. Rihanna's hair. Rihanna's dress.

5. Jamie Foxx (as Ray Charles) and Stevie Wonder. Everyone that knows me knows how I feel about Stevie Wonder's blind jokes. No. Just no. 

Credit: MICHAEL TRAN/FILMMAGIC

Did I miss any more awkward moments? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me @whitandlove!

Always in love,

The List: Best Friends

There are a few women in this world that I don't have the pleasure of knowing, but am extremely confident that if we met we would be best friends. Trust me, it's true. This week's list is dedicated to my amazing best friends (in my head)!

In very particular order:

1. Tracee Ellis Ross!!!!!
2. Janelle Monae
3. Taylor Swift
4. Emma Stone
5. Taraji P. Henson
6. Regina Hall (ahem, she just tweeted me a heart this weekend)


I know you have besties that you don't know. Spill the beans in the comments or Tweet me @whitandlove!


Always in love,