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

Hi Lauren, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Being a small business owner was not on my radar in the beginning. I went out on my own right after Photography school and just thought to myself “ this is what I am doing, full speed ahead, no looking back”. The intricacies of owning my own business didn’t even occur to me until I was actively in the middle of it, figuring it all out. Once the business and my client relationships were gaining momentum, I knew this was what I wanted to do, even though I was already doing it.What should our readers know about your business?
Specialization is in Interior and food photography. Residential interiors for shelter magazines, designers and architects. Another huge part of my business is photographing  hotels and restaurants; this is the commercial portion of the business. The versatility of projects is what keeps me going. A gorgeous boutique hotel opening up, where my photography will be what draws people in to stay there, thats the reward! Also, the gorgeous designs that my interior and architect clients provide their clients, They bring entire rooms and homes together, its quite magical. Working with my design clients is truly one of the most enjoyable for me. They are all so talented, and I learn so much about color and texture, and how it all fits together. It’s very fun for me in that sense. 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?
We live north of the city, and in Atlanta there is always banter about OTP (outside the perimeter) Vs. ITP (inside the perimeter) of the city. Since we live OTP, we typical spend time in our neck of the woods. Atlanta is BOOMING and we are really fortunate to have amazing gathering places a stones throw away. There is anything and everything you could possibly want.  Lunch outside under the pergola at Rumi’s Kitchen, or dinner anywhere downtown Alpharetta ( LaPeer is my favorite right now), it is a great spot!

But in-town, my #1 would be seeing a show at Variety playhouse or the Fox, I am going through withdraw without my live concerts and shows this past year. So having a cocktail at the Georgian Terrace then popping across the street for a show would be a must. Spending time over on the westside and grabbing dinner at Miller Union is always a great evening as well.

If we are talking design and shopping, you CANNOT miss Scott’s antique market. This is the best design secret and where I get most of my interior design finds. It is once a month, a full weekend and a do not miss experience!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Firstly, my mom and dad, they always were my biggest cheerleaders. When I decided switch my path from traditional university to art school, they allowed me to investigate all my options and were totally a part of  helping me find my path. I believe they always knew I would follow a career in art; they knew it before I did.  Once I enrolled and started at the Art Institute, it was my art director and mentor Phil Bekker. He was tough as nails, but knew his craft and pushed me.  He was hard on all of his students, but I pushed and asked questions.  He helped me understand what I needed to succeed…I took his advice and pushed through…came out the other end with tons of knowledge.  Once I was out of school, it was Susan Bogle, Art director for Atlanta Magazine. Susan gave me my first real shot in the editorial world and hired me monthly for multiple projects. She was another huge believer. I owe everyone a huge thank you for the support and their help.

Website: www.larphotography.com

Instagram: larphotog

Linkedin: Lauren Rubinstein Photography

Facebook: Lauren Rubinstein or Lauren rubinstein Photography

Image Credits
Lauren Rubinstein & Jay Prewett

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