Alberta photographer Alexia Foster-Williamson might be new to the photography game, but she's not letting that slow her down.
Relatively fresh out of photography school, she's already blazing a trail as an up-and-coming shooter, and doesn't back down from any challenge. Her enthusiasm for capturing beautiful images is evident and she's taking every opportunity that crosses her path.
From weddings to portraiture to landscape photography, Alexia does it all, never forgetting to take time out for the simple pleasures in life, like spending quality time with family and friends.
Alexia was awesome enough to answer some questions and share some of her photos with us.
Q: Where did you grow up and where do you currently live?
I grew up west of Calgary in a lovely area called Springbank. I then explored Edmonton, Winnipeg (go, Jets, go!) and Victoria before my husband and I settled on Redwood Meadows, Alta.
Q: How long have you been shooting photos?
Not too long! I graduated from the Western Academy of Photography in Victoria two years ago and have been building my business ever since. I didn’t realize I had a knack for photography until I was in my early 20s. It was, and has been, a very pleasant experience.
Q: Where is your favourite place to shoot photos and what are your favourite type of photos to take?
I always enjoy photographing the Rocky View County area. There is a plethora of amazing views, landscapes and wildlife! It’s hard to pin-point a favorite genre but landscapes/nature is definitely up there. It’s one of the only types of photography that allows for full creative freedom without interruption. I’m keen on portraiture as well. It’s always interesting trying to capture someone’s personality in one image.
Check out more of Alexia's work. Interview continues below:
Alexia Foster-Williamson Photography
Q: Do you shoot photos professionally, or just for fun?
I think they go hand in hand, I am a professional photographer but I always have fun on the job. I usually only have the time for the just for fun images while I am on vacation. What can I say, business is booming!
Q: What about Alberta inspires you?
My friends and family. I lived away from Alberta for a while and it’s been so nice to receive the encouragement from them upon our arrival back home. I think for any artist it’s very easy to second guess yourself and lose inspiration, it’s important to surround yourself with people that believe in your talent and push you to do better.
Q: What's the most unusual, remarkable thing you've ever had happen while taking photos?
When I worked for Tourism Victoria a couple years ago I was sent out to photograph whales for a day. I had been out whale watching a few times in the past but the boats aren’t allowed to get anywhere close to the pods, so I had never seen anything up close. On this particular trip though, we had a family of orca’s come right up to the boat and say hello. They were touching the boat, it was incredible and terrifying, they were so massive and intimidating but breathtaking at the same time. I got very lucky that day and ended up getting some great images.
Q: Have you ever found yourself in a scary situation while shooting?
I try to avoid scary situations but nothing is more nerve-wracking then getting a flat tire on the way to photograph a wedding. #yikes
Q: What do you like to do when you're not taking photos?
Garden, renovate our new home, walk our dogs, think of ways to improve my photography game, enjoy the company of my marvelous friends and family, secretly monitor TMZ, rap to rap music, cry to country music, eat delicious food, drink delicious wine, e-mails, a lot of e-mails, decorating then re-decorating, road trips, vacations, staycations, work on my gleaming personality, paint walls, forever attempt to distinguish the difference between your and you’re.
Q: Is there anything else we should know?
I decided early on not to box myself into any photographic specialty. I love all aspects of my job whether it’s photographing weddings, car shows, corporate headshots, fashion, newborns, etc… I am always up for trying something new.
Follow more of Alexia's photography on her Facebook page.
