Meet Anthony Fitzpatrick: Lifestyle Photographer

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

Hi Anthony, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
As a parent of both a little black girl and little black boy, I’ve tried to expose them to all aspects of life as an entrepreneur l. I’ve taken them with me on my journey as a photography so they can see what hard work and dedication looks like. They’ve been to photoshoots with me and they’ve seen me at a computer for hours at a time editing photos. I want them to understand that whatever they are passionate about, if they want to be good at it, they must be intentional about the amount of work and effort they put towards it. Success doesn’t show up at your front door, you have to go searching for it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career as a photographer began when I was a child. My father was a photographer and growing up, he’d often take my siblings and myself out on weekends and have his camera available for impromptu photo sessions. In 2013, when I begin having my own children, I immediately wanted to give them the same experiences that I had growing up. My wife purchased a camera and I begin taking photos of my children around the house. I didn’t book my first photography gig for at least a year. I was never looking to become a photographer either. But, after posting pictures of my daughter on Facebook and Instagram, I begin getting inquires about prices for other types of photoshoots.

Without any guidance or pre-knowledge of what it took to start a photography business, I began to piece together Fitz Frames Photography bit by bit. Coming up with the name first, then logos and prices and packages. Some of those things have altered over the years, but who I am as a photographer has been consistent.

Growing this business wasn’t easy. I had to take myself back to school and become a student of the craft. I utilized Youtube videos and reached out to other local photographers for guidance, inspiration and collaboration. I’ve made mistakes and have tried to turn those into lessons for myself and others. When it comes to Fitz Frames Photography, I want people to know that I’m merely a catalyst of your true self. I want my photography to shed light on what’s already there. The beauty in every human being, the joy in everyone’s smile and the passion in everyone’s eyes.

I’ve learned that creativity is simply an expression of a moment and my goal as a photographer is to cultivate the everlasting moment with each client.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Raleigh/Durham area is amazing. There’s so much land to cover when visiting that it’s impossible to see everything in a week. Within each city inside Wake County, you have small mom and pop shops that can give you a homey feel. You also have large chain restaurants and event spaces that give you a major city vibe.

I love good food, specifically a great Shrimp-n-Grit. So if someone was visiting this area, I’d suggest a few stops in Raleigh and Durham that was satisfy your taste buds and provide some great photo opportunities.

Downtown Raleigh has the Morgan Street Food Hall! There’s two places I always swing by when I’m downtown and they are both in the Food Hall. First is Iyla’s Southern Kitchen for their Shrimp & Grits, Mac-N-Cheese and tater tots. The 2nd place I stop is Aunty Betty’s Bar (which happens to be tucked right next door to Iyla’s). This cocktail bar is the perfect low-key spot for a nice drink, dope ambiance and great music.

While Downtown, you can walk to the Dillon and get access to their 9th floor rooftop for amazing city scape pictures and a beautiful sunset. There are tons of shops, restaurants and bars to visit, with everything in walking distance.

When I’m in Durham, I make sure to stop by the 21c Museum, which host contemporary art housed in the lobby of a hotel. There are tons of photo opportunities inside the art gallery and outside on the patios of surrounding bars and restaurants. I can’t forget about Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, which has got to be the best Chicken & Waffles in the city. The service is great and their food is amazing.

These are just some of the places I like to visit when I’m out and about in the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My wife, Dana, deserves more credit than I can give her. She’s allowed me the space and time to practice and sharpen my skills as a photographer.

Also, John Kornegay, Tim Bowser, LaRon White, and Andrea Wright are all photographers who’ve shared wisdom and knowledge with me to help me grow as an entrepreneur and photographer. They’ve provided me with safe spaces to mature within my field and learn.

Website: www.fitzframesphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitzframesphotos/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrfitzpatrick

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fitz_frames_it?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FitzFramesPhotography/

Image Credits
Anthony Fitzpatrick (Fitz Frames Photography)