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

Hi Darryl, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When deciding to start a business, I asked myself was I using my time to accomplish all that God had for me. I had to be honest and acknowledge that there was so much more that I could do. For me, creating a business was more than an opportunity to own my time, but one to create opportunities for others.

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey was different from most photographers and media company owners. Professionally, I was trained as a pharmacist and received a Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina. During that time in school, I was able to develop the discipline, leadership and networking skills necessary to turn my passions into reality.

My first exposure to weddings happened when I was 15. I had the opportunity to assist in wedding videography, but never knew I would pursue it as a business owner ten years later. As a graduate student, I was able to buy my first camera and reconnect with my long time passion of content creation.

In 2017, I founded Optikool illusions Photography and Media, LLC and the journey has been unbelievable since. Our company specializes in weddings, event, and portrait photography and videography services. My goal was to build a team that could provide consistent quality for customers at an affordable price. Since our founding, Optikool illusions has grown to be far more than just a photographer. We are a team of photographers, videographers, and creative directors dedicated to capturing your best moments in the perfect way.

Working professionally as a photographer has brought both highlights and challenges. As I began to have doors opened for me, I learned that there was so much more to success than just being good at what you do. Learning about incorporation, payroll, liability insurance, and even social media management are all examples of challenges that I faced when starting my company. While these components of business ownership may seem frustrating, they are truly necessary to expand one’s business to its fullest potential.

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?
Some of my favorite spots in the city includes sporting events such viewing a Braves or Hawkes game. As a lover food, I would have to take them to Slutty Vegan and Old Lady Gang. To hang out, I would take them to see comedy at Kats Cafe and Laughing Skulls. To site see, I would show them the trap Museum and World of Coke. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my beautiful fiancé who has allowed me to dream. Many people find themselves caged by the pressures of society, family, and doubt. Being able to pursue your dream is a beautiful and rewarding adventure.

Website: www.optikoolillusions.com

Instagram: @optikool.illusions

Facebook: www.facebook.com/optikool.illusions/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Optikoolillusions/

Image Credits
Optikool illusions Photography and Media, LLC

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