Meet NICOLE ADAMS | PHOTOGRAPHER

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

Hi NICOLE, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
In many ways, photography found me. I first picked up a camera in middle school, just to capture my adventures, and I remember the excitement of waiting for film to be developed. There was something powerful about freezing a moment and being able to relive it later — the laughter, the energy, the story behind the image.

At 21, I invested in my first professional camera, and that’s when I truly fell in love with the craft. I became fascinated by the way light and perspective could shape a photograph into something more than just a moment in time — it could become art.

What inspires me most is capturing love and beauty in all its forms. Photography has woven itself into who I am. It gives me energy, purpose, and joy. Even if I never earned a dollar from it, I would still feel fulfilled — because the act of creating and connecting through images is what I was meant to do.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My photography is classic, timeless and deeply personal. I take pride in creating work that never feels dated or out of style — the kind of images that, even 20 years later, still carry the same beauty and relevance. Over the past 25 years, I’ve watched my art evolve, but one thing has never changed: my devotion to capturing people in ways that feel genuine, elegant, and lasting.

What I’m most proud of are the relationships I’ve built along the way. Many of my clients have trusted me with their most meaningful life moments, time and time again. I’ve walked alongside families — from maternity sessions to graduations, weddings, and beyond. That trust, that connection, that sense of being invited into people’s stories, is what truly sets my work apart.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. After two decades of running a successful photography brand in Detroit, I relocated to Atlanta. Rebuilding in a new city was not easy, but I knew one truth: if I kept creating, the rest would follow. Even during slower seasons, I never stopped taking pictures. I created for the love of it, and I leaned on the belief that my work would speak for itself. And it has. With time, connection, and consistency, my business continues to grow through the most powerful marketing there is — word of mouth.

If there’s one thing I want the world to feel about me and my brand, it’s this: photography isn’t just what I do, it’s who I am. My mission is to celebrate life’s most precious moments, helping my clients show up as their most authentic selves—confident, radiant, and empowered.

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.
We’d start with brunch, because Atlanta does brunch like no other. Spots like Breakfast at Barneys make it as much about the atmosphere as the food. From there, we’d wander through Ponce City Market or along the BeltLine, soaking in local art, people-watching, and just feeling the energy of the city.

One day would absolutely be dedicated to history and culture — exploring the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, The Trap Museum or the High Museum of Art. Those spaces remind you of the richness of Atlanta’s past and the creativity shaping its future. And if it happens to be the first Friday of the month at the High Museum? Even better. High-energy DJs, beautiful people, and jaw-dropping art — that’s a recipe for a good time.

Of course, no trip is complete without a little nature. I’d take them to Piedmont Park for a sunset stroll, and maybe even a day trip up to Stone Mountain to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful views of the city.

Evenings would be all about soulful dining and dancing. I love Jamaican food! So, pulling up to Tastee Spoon or Chef’s Rob’s would be an absolute must. We could also indulge in the mouth-watering dishes at Desta Ethiopian Kitchen – also a crowd pleaser. And since Atlanta’s music scene is unmatched, we’d end the week vibing out with some of the best DJs around — Westside Motor Lounge, Echo Room, or Block and Drum — for nights that feel both intimate and unforgettable.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Without a doubt, my mom. Growing up, I watched her work a full-time job during the week and then pour herself into her passion every weekend as a licensed cosmetologist. She took so much pride in helping women feel beautiful and confident, and her work was always more than a side job — it was her way of expressing herself and connecting with others through beauty and creativity.

Seeing her show up with that kind of dedication left a lasting impression on me. Even now, I recognize so many parallels between the way cosmetology filled her cup and the way photography fills mine. Though she’s retired, the example she set continues to inspire me: to create, to give, and to find joy in the way our gifts can lift others up.

Website: https://www.nicoleadamsphotography.com

Instagram: nicoleadamsphotography

Image Credits
Photos of me: Mecca Clarke Photo
Everything else: Nicole Adams Photography