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

Hi Alexandra, how do you think about risk?
My personal taste has always been bold and unconventional. However, when I was starting out as a professional photographer, my tendency was to downplay my bold creative streak to create more mainstream imagery. It wasn’t until I decided to be true to myself and trust my instincts, that I began creating work that excited me and attracted others to it. So if I have one piece of advice to share, its to be authentic in everything you create and true to yourself.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Whether it be commercial imagery or fine art photography, I love imagery that is surreal and expressive.

With my fine art work, everything that I create begins with a thought and is followed by the energy I pour into it; so it is natural that everything I make is an extension of who I am, and how I was feeling in the moment. However, when creating imagery for commercial use, the work needs to serve the commercial messaging, regardless of who makes the image. But there is always room for the photographer’s style to seep in. So early on, the challenge I had was to develop a comprehensive visual vocabulary that served my commercial projects, while also allowing myself to stay connected to my creative sensibilities and my visual style. Finding that balance has been crucial to developing my career and understanding what are my creative strengths and weaknesses.

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.
I am from Puerto Rico, however, I’ve been living in Atlanta for more than a decade. My favorite spots year round are always the ones with the most cultural diversity; especially the ones that cater to my latin roots! There are plenty of latinos in Atlanta, and it is always a joy to meet any one of them, even for the first time!

On the other hand, as a creative; I am in constant awe of how rich the art culture is in Atlanta! We have so many museums, galleries, art festivals, year round. My favorite is Atlanta Celebrates Photography, which happens September to November all around the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I began my creative journey as a self-taught graphic designer and photographer. As such, I have to thank every single person who agreed to sit with me and let me “pick their brain”. I am also grateful for every person who ever collaborated with me in any photography project during my discovery phase. No man is an island, and creativity most definitely amplifies with the collaboration of others; so shoutout to every single person who shares their knowledge and time, so that others can grow and rise up.

Website: www.AlexValkyrie.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/alex.valkyrie

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexandramarrero

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