Meet Alectra Busey | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alectra Busey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alectra, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
As a professional photographer, I’ve learned that taking risks has been essential in propelling my career forward. I’ve taken risks by stepping out of my comfort zone to pursue unconventional projects, saying yes to unexpected opportunities, and experimenting with new techniques and styles. These risks have led to some of my favorite, most impactful work, and have allowed me to build a unique reputation and differentiate myself from others in the industry with my lighting.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
what sets you apart from others? –

My off camera lighting

what you are most proud of and excited about? –

I am proud of constantly overcoming my obstacles and the accomplishments I’ve achieved . I am excited to keep capturing more images that challenge me and creating EPIC SHIT….!

How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? – What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? –

Born and raised in Malibu, California.
Growing up, the majority of my family was and still is in the film industry (Motion Picture Film / Stunts) , so since day one i always was around it…
BUT, I was always interested in the “behind the scenes”, “behind the camera”, “the making” of said sets.

Age 13 I was gifted my first DSLR camera, Canon Rebel, had absolutely NO idea what i was doing setting wise with it…. but had the creative eye & loved being behind the lens. I was self taught /had my favorite photographers and influences of photography / family friends gave me advice here and there till I was 18.

When my grandmother was on deathbed w/cancer, she told me her last wish was for me to finish school but with something i love … (i had dropped out of high school fist month of 10th grade) … that day i applied for my GED Test as well as BROOKS Photography school in Santa Barbara, CA and Hallmark Institute of Photography, Massachusetts…
I passed my GED, got accepted to both, & I decided on Hallmark, MA … That same day I found out/decided I went and told my grandma, she was over the moon. Little did I know that was going to be the last moment spent with her due to the fact that she passed hours after.

Graduated Hallmark Institute of Photography – class of 2013
Hallmark is where I found my “niche” in my craft… my stamp in my images… the control of my OCF lighting.
With that being said, while in New England, I also had the privilege of learning in real time assisting Jeremy Saffer and Clay McBride…(separately) Absolutely outstanding photographers. Photographers that I had been looking up to outside and prior to Hallmark institute of Photography.

Right out of college (2013) I was more so with the “alternative” models and magazine companies …. Photography of the “heavier” music scene. Freelance and whatnot.
(2018) Jumped on Yelawolf’sTrunkM3 tour as photographer for StruggleJennings and Jelly Roll ( Waylon and Willie).
From there, became part of Angels and Outlaws, Struggle Jennings, team & relocated to Nashville, TN… & have been here since.

If not, how did you overcome the challenges? –

I would not say the road was easy at all… but worth it in the end due to i absolutely love what i do… also having the right support system and creatives in your corner to work with / learn from / etc.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. ? –

Always double check you charged your gear. HAVE YOUR GEAR….
Make sure to eject hard drives before unplugging.
DON’T DELETE IN CAMERA. Make sure you get EVERY release signed when / prior to shoot starting…. yes, best friends, family, wife, kids…. EVERYONE & ANYONE signs a release.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Honestly …. with so many friends that are amazing creatives…. within music, art, media, etc…. it’s kinda a play it by year situation. hahaha

but have to say…. Koi east has amazing Sushi, Hail Nashville with some epic oddities, and get tattooed at Wealth & Taste tattoo….

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The photographers Jeremy Saffer, Andy Heartmark, & Hugo V.
… and of course my mother, who has been my biggest cheerleader.

Website: https://alectrabusey.com

Instagram: alectrabuseyphoto

Other: personal Instagram – @alectraa

Image Credits
All image rights – Alectra Busey Photography