Meet Aleni Barkley: Photographer

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

Hi Aleni, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Goal achievement is determined by your work ethic, open mindedness, discipline, and your ability to take risks. I took a risk when I resigned from my job. I was accustomed to playing it safe just to have an income. Once I became uncomfortable, I knew God was trying to move me. I would have stayed miserable being in an environment that hindered my creativity. My mother and I was watching an episode of I Am Athlete where Briana Owens was discussing her journey of quitting her corporate job to start Spiked Spin. My mom mentioned how she admired my generation for being risk takers and not being afraid to go after our dreams. Since taking that risk, I frequently receive confirmation that I made the right decision. The camera that I utilize was being advertised from a photographer on social media. It’s risky purchasing items from strangers, but that was one of the best purchases I’ve made. The seller saved me at least a thousand dollars, and the purchase allowed me to improve my quality of product.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I try to create images that leave a lasting impression on the viewer’s eye. I like to capture my clients in their natural environments and maintain natural posing to portray authenticity. I am very proud of my work and progression. The images I shot at the protests held in Atlanta last summer are some of my most prized work thus far. I captured a glimpse of history with those images. I’ve made it this far because of my patience, diligence and support of my family and friends. The journey has not been easy, but it has been a joyous one. I knew I was officially a business woman when I dealt with people attempting to take advantage of my services. There have also been times when the money wasn’t coming in as quickly as I wanted. I was contemplating selling all of my gear and equipment during my darkest days. I overcame these challenges by constantly shooting and posting my work whether I was being booked or not. I also collaborate with other creatives which helps me reach new audiences on other platforms. Now I feel like I’m always reaching a new milestone. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to always have a contract. Contracts weed out people who aren’t serious and people who only want free work. In addition to having a contract, never seek anyone else’s approval. Validate yourself and remain confident in your work. I want the world to know that when they work with me, they’ll always receive exceptional service and a stunning product. My story displays a woman turning nothing into everything and staying adaptable through frequently changing circumstances.

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.
Sunday we’d go to Hudson Grille downtown to enjoy a game while drinking their famous ATL cocktail. Monday we’d grab a calzone at Rocky Mountain Pizza Company and visit Piedmont Park to get a breath of fresh air. On Tuesday we would eat two-dollar tacos at Republic Social House. Wednesday I’d make a trip to Little Five Points to get a juicy burger at The Vortex and visit the shops in the area. Thursday we’d go to Atlantic Station to purchase new sports gear and eat smoked wings at The Pig and The Pearl. Friday we’d go to Grindhouse Killer Burgers and enjoy dinner outside. Saturday night we’d go to East Point to enjoy the chill vibes at Chairs Upstairs Bar and Restaurant. 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?
There are many people who influence me and aid me on my journey. My parents Daisy and Jesse Barkley have always shown me what hard work and sacrifice will yield. In addition to my mother, my aunts and cousins are prime examples of strong women who handle their responsibilities regardless of any circumstance. I am surrounded by people who work hard and achieve goals in every aspect of their life. My closest friends have established businesses, purchased property, published books, transformed students and made an impact in the military. They are all from the small town of Barnesville, GA making their marks across the globe. Lastly I am grateful for my podcast family The Modern CRWD. The group is composed of talented people in different aspects of the industry. In addition to our joint projects, we come together to encourage and promote the success of our individual crafts.

Website: adbarkley11.wixsite.com/aleni11

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aleni11_photography/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleni-barkley-647835173/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aleni.barkley