Meet Krystal Harris | Photographer/Content Creator

I believe the most important factor behind my success is truly understanding the value of building relationships not just securing  clients/customers. By building a relationship I create an avenue that generates more business through association. When people value the work that you do, word of mouth is powerful, but when you couple that with genuine relationship it’s more than word of mouth, that person is willing to back your work with their word.

Having spent time on the other side of the lens as a model, I took a strong interest in learning more about how to create a beautiful image. I was always in awe about the attention to detail that many photographers had when shooting, so the transition was a very natural one for me. I went from asking questions to asking “can I hold your camera”. When I first started out of course like many photographers I did free shoots and spent plenty of time learning my camera, understanding the settings and taking random shots around the cities I traveled to while on vacation. I felt that although I was shooting for free, they were getting a pretty good image for nothing and it showed. Many of those folks printed those images, shared them on social media and the biggest surprise for me was when I walked into a wedding and saw the images as we walked through the door. It was that moment I knew I was ready to start charging, just a little anyway.

The hardest part of this journey was learning the business side and I still have so much to learn. Understanding my value was challenging because I found myself comparing my work to others work. Questioning am I good enough to charge what they charge. I finally found a way of pricing my work and scaled up as I continued to refine my craft. One thing that challenges others about my price structure is they don’t understand my why. I’m passionate about targeting small business owners, professionals and content creators that may not have the budget, however, they deserve the quality, we all do. I’ve learned to work smarter, not harder. I found creative ways to keep my overhead to a minimum and I keep my equipment simple and I’m always a student of the art. That combination allows me to be affordable for the market that needs the quality but also has a smaller budget. It has been rewarding to be in such a position and when I tell you the blessings have been immense, it’s crazy to think of the opportunities that have opened up for me and I’m just getting started.

Creative is a word I’ve heard nearly my whole life. I’ve always had a way of making anything my hands touched stand out by making them unique. Not to mention, I’ve always had a story to explain each of my creations. What I like most about creating is having fun with my clients, I truly make each session feel less like work and more like an experience. I want to be everybody’s go-to girl and help people bring their brand or products to a space all their own by presenting them in a “unique” way. I believe less is more with just a little pop. A little “something” that catches a person’s eye without overdoing it.

I’ve been shooting since 2013 and inviting viewers into your world is my niche. I spend time getting to know my clients to make sure I understand the needs and vision so that execution is without a doubt focused, in color to create a unique visual that represents you and your brand. I’m definitely an underdog but one whose images can stand against many professionals in the business. Passion is what drives me and seeing everyone win is what motivates me. Believe it or not I have an impressive resume that I never speak about. I want people to work with me because they believe in me not because of who else believes in me. I’ve been published in many media outlets and I even work as a creative director. All of that feels great but seeing the look on a clients face when they see their images is what feels most amazing!

Atlanta is a one of kind city and I’m so happy that I can call this place home. When visiting Atlanta make sure you are ready to take it all in. One of the first places I take people that are visiting this city is Ponce City Market. You can literally spend hours out there. There is something for everybody and I mean everybody and just when I think I’ve seen everything there is to see at PCM something new pops up. It’s eclectic, fresh, and celebrates many cultures all under one roof. It’s also a must to stop by The Village Market while you’re there. Honestly as a small business myself, I appreciate the opportunity this shop gives to small black owned businesses. You will spend time walking, shopping, snacking, really this place does not disappoint. Also I have to say Breakfast at Barney’s is an experience and a must do. Great food, great energy, good vibes! Nothing more to say.

Sipping on a good drink is a great way to wind down in the evenings and there are so many options it’s insane. If I had to recommend a few it would be The Battery, Slush or The Politan, in no particular order of course. But food and drinks are by far not the only things there are to do in this amazing city. You can go from the city to the mountains to the coast in a few hours drive. I would recommend all three. But if you’re not interested in doing a lot of driving once you’re here well we have one of the best aquariums period! The High Museum is a must even if you’re not a scholar of art and Colony square is becoming a new favorite of mine on any given day you can hear live music, watch the big screen in the dopest courtyard, find some unique bites or watch a movie in a one of kind theatre all in one place.

When it comes to entertainment, Atlanta got it right! Oh and let me not forget that depending on the time of year you can catch a NBA, NFL or MSL games in two of the most incredible arenas/stadiums anywhere.

I want to shoutout all the small businesses that pay it forward. Paving a way for others while you yourself are on your own journey is so inspirational. So many carried me along their journey and gave me opportunities to perfect my craft in so many different lanes. I am now positioned to pay it forward to others and the journey has been beautiful.