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

Hi Alleah, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
When I was younger I struggled with self expression. I kept most of my emotions bottled up with eventually lead to a break down. Photography is what saved me. I chose to pursue a creative career because it allows me to fully express myself without the need for words. Photography is my most detailed form of self expression. Every image I produce gives me a deep feeling of fulfillment. I’m so grateful that I’m able to wake up everyday and do something that I love so much and is also appreciated by others.

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.
My story is one of risk and reward. I’m proud that I was able to create a flourishing business during an extremely difficult time. What sets me apart from others is my willingness and desire to create a unique experience for each of my clients. My goal is to create timeless memories that clients will be able to enjoy for generations to come. Although it was not easy to get to where I am today, the journey both good and bad have lead me to this amazing point of self-actualization.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many fun places and things to explore in the Raleigh / Durham area. I love food so we would absolutely do a restaurant tour throughout downtown Raleigh. We would start by eating a delicious southern breakfast at Big Eds in Raleigh City Market. There are also some great photo spots right around that area so we could work off breakfast by walking around and snapping some cool shots of downtown Raleigh. We would then do lunch at Jack’s Seafood on Newbern Avenue and enjoy some of the amazing dishes they have been preparing for over 40 years. Finishing off the day, we would have a beautiful dinner at ORO on east Martin Street.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Mother, Dawn Pretlow, has always supported me in everything that I do and I could never thank her enough for all of her sacrifices. Another important factor in my career has been my best friend and Creative Director Brittany Brown. She has always supported me tirelessly and whole heartedly; even when she had absolutely nothing to gain. She pushes me to take creative risks and there is no way I would be where I am without her.

I would also like to thank my good friend Jheri Hardaway for giving me my first DSLR camera and changing my life forever!

Website: www.alleahpretlowphotography.com

Instagram: alleahpretlowphoto

Facebook: Alleah Pretlow Photography

Image Credits
The personal photo of me (in black and white) was taken by Anthony Fitzpatrick / Fitz Frames.

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