Meet Andrew Mcdowell | Professional Photographer

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

Hi Andrew, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was working at a factory on the 12 hour night shift. After a few years I realized that it was killing me. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I started to feel a burn in my gut. It was multiple things pull me, yelling at me “Andrew you have a gift, use it!”. So I started learning, practicing, obsessing over every type of photography. I took every ounce of frustration from my current situation and poured it into my passion. I got my skill level up to a point where I was confident in charging for the art I was capturing. Not in just one type of photography but many. Family, event, product, landscape, nature, business, real estate, boudoir, wedding, and live music.

Once the pandemic started to go away and venues started to host live music again, that burn in my gut turned into full blown panic attacks. At the time I didn’t know what a panic attack was. Once I felt that…. The lack of control… The invisible grip that prevented me from moving and breathing. I 100% don’t recommend.

I quit. No two week notice (Let’s be honest what job is ever going to give you a two week?) Instead of going to work that Friday night I grabbed my camera and went to a local restaurant that had a live band. I shot the whole show then went home and started editing non stop. I delivered the photos the next morning. I let the band hand pick the photos they wanted. I made $300 that night for a unplanned photoshoot. At that point I knew I had made the right choice.

I retired the day I quit my job and started practicing photography full time.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My photography skills are wide. I chose to have many types of photography on my belt because I know how easily I can burn out. I know if I were to only do weddings or just senor portraits. That I would burn through that creativity and get bored. This is what sets me apart from most other photographers. If a client asks me to do a type of photography that I’ve never done, I don’t charge for it. Just so I can add that skill set to my portfolio.

Is it easy to be a professional photographer? Hahaaa! Hell no! It’s a grind! Constantly working on your skill, self promotion/marketing, looking for new clients, booking months out. But I always remember where I was before. I even drive by the factory every chance I get just to remind myself that the grind is worth it.

One of the biggest lessons so far. It’s easier to get paid from a stranger than a friend or family member. Sad but true. Also get the deposit. If you don’t you will be under cut.

I want people to look at my photos and catch a feeling. That’s literally the name of my business. Felt Photography Atlanta “Capturing moments meant to be felt”. Maybe it’s an awe inspiring landscape, or high energy rock band, a lovely memory, or a candid moment. I want you to feel what I see.

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.
If I were to show someone the Atlanta that I love. I would need longer than a week.. Haha.

House in the park, jazz in the park, well any of the many music festivals that are held in Piedmont Park are great! Walking the beltline is also one of my favorite things to do. Great place to bring a camera. Little five points is always a good time.

Food options are endless, but I do like to get fancy and go to Two Urban Licks or the Sundial

Now as for the night life a comedy show at punchline or the laughing skull are a great start. Then a show at Eddie’s Attic or the Masquerade. Depending on who is in town a visit to District, Twisted Lines, or little trouble ATL might be the move. Odyssey After if you still have the energy. Then breakfast at Majestic dinner or Waffle House on the way home.

Bring your energy drink if you want to keep up with me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Mom. My Rock. The one who raised me as a dreamer and allowed my creativity to flow freely.

Evan Ranft: Atlanta photographer and YouTuber

North Borders: Australian photographer and YouTuber

Jimmy Broadbent: Sim racer on YouTube turned professional racecar driver.

All of the above have chosen to chase a passion and made it work. Honestly anyone who I come across that is chasing a passion and doing what they love to pay the bills, are my inspiration.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feltphotographyatl?igsh=MXI3c283OXBuaml6

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HqbFLyXdL/

Other: https://photo-portal.shop/profiles/FeltPhotographyATL/