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

Hi Nick, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
It has not helped yet, but my goal is to help people see the beauty in their community and the world. Especially in the current political climate, Unity is important to me, and I want to bring people together so they can see the beauty and color in the things I photograph in our community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my photography, honestly, I just picked up a camera and got to work, but I love it so much that it doesn’t feel like work; it feels like I’m meant to be holding that camera. But learning the things I needed to know was difficult, but I love it nonetheless. My work outside of photography is fun as well. I install audio equipment in people’s cars. I love it. It’s so much fun to do.

Man, I’d say the challenges I had to overcome were me getting in my own way, you know? I eventually got good enough where now I help train the other guys, so it’s fun. I get to share what I know, and I get to learn things along the way, because you never stop learning. Lesson-wise wise I’ve learned a TON over the last few years. They were mainly lessons I had to learn the hard way that were causing issues, and Mental Health is always a huge challenge, but I’ve got no quit in me!

Honestly, I want the world to see my story and know that it’s ok to put yourself out there and to be scared, but don’t give up and create your art, because I promise there are more people out there who will appreciate your art than there are haters!

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.
Oh man, this is such a vibrant city. This will be a challenge. Ponce City Market for sure, tons of food and people, and it’s mad colorful and beautiful. Piedmont Park has so much to see, and there are always awesome people and music, and culture everywhere you look. I’d take them to see the Botanical Gardens, which is my favorite spot to find peace and enjoy nature and good food, and company (and take some AMAZING photos). The Perimeter mall is awesome, I like to head to Caffiene and Octane in Marietta to see some awesome cars, and then head to the Perimeter mall for food is awesome. Last but most definitely not least is the Trap Museum, so much culture and vibrance to experience here and there’s so much of it, the music, the people, the sights. There’s nowhere quite like Atlanta!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve got a few people, of course, my Mom, for all the support and love she’s given me over the years. I couldn’t ask for a better Mom. My best friend, Jack, who is an event/portrait photographer, helped me learn and explore photography and find my love for it. Every photo I take gets run by him to make sure it’s worth posting. All of my friends are so supportive of me and always give me honest and awesome feedback. I have a great support system.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grizzlylensphotography?igsh=em44c3F2NjRsanNl&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Jack Cantrell

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