Meet Tamika Shields | Photographer

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

Hi Tamika, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always loved anything art since the day I picked up a crayon. I knew I wanted to do something related to art I just didn’t know what it would be. I majored in Graphic Design at the Art Institute of Atlanta, while I was there I also minored in photography. And that’s when I kind of fell in love with photography. But little did I know years later after graduating I would get back into photography and actually love it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Some photographers have a certain niche but I want to offer something for everyone. I also want my clients to print their moments, most people post on social media and get the “wows” and “likes” and the picture is lost in the digital world forever. I want you to give yourself the gift of a relaxed, natural portrait session. The experience is easy and stress-free and you’ll end up with gorgeous wall art that will brighten your home and can be passed down for generations. And your photos are no longer lost in the digital world or collecting dust on your hard drive.

I don’t think the road is ever smooth when starting a business. It’s really hard starting out because people don’t know you and they’re not willing to just dish out their hard earned money to just anybody. So building trust for first time clients is hard. Being in the photography field is especially hard because it’s so saturated with amazing photographers and is hard to stand out and be noticed. I’ve made mistakes along the way and questioned my talent, but as time went on, I continued to learn and felt more confident in my talent. I’m always learning new skills. I’m always reflecting on each session to see what I can do better at the next session.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Even though I’m more of a home body, I don’t have a lot of places to take them. But maybe it’ll be the time to do somethings on my bucket list. FYI I’m a foodie. Anyway, I would love to swing by the Slutty Vegan. Then hit all the main attractions downtown like the Georgia Aquarium, Coca-cola museum and of course the Civil Rights museum. Another day we’ll try these “crack” wings I’ve been hearing about on TikTok from the Bando. Along with goin to be creative at Spin Art Atlanta. And find all the good Mexican restaurants around Atlanta because I love Mexican food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I could really name a few people but my biggest supporter would be my husband, Jonathan. If it wasn’t for him buying the online courses for photography because years after I graduated I had forgotten everything about photography. And encouraging me every step of the way. I don’t think I would even be doing this. He always has my back in more ways than anyone knows. When you see me, you will see him, just without a camera, of course.

Website: angelicsmilesphotography49.mypixieset.com

Instagram: instagram.com/angelicsmilesphotography

Facebook: fb.com/angelicsmilesphotography.llc

Other: @angelicsmilephoto (TikTok)

Image Credits
Angelic Smiles Photography