Bianca Alexis shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Bianca, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Who are you learning from right now?
I recently finished a two year program to earn my associate degree in marketing. I took it because I have always been more of an artist, and I wanted to learn how to actually market my work and communicate its value. What I learned ended up going far beyond business. It taught me how to deal with people. I used to speak to everyone in the same tone, but now I understand that different people and hierarchies need different ways of communication. Learning to read people, adapt, and respond more thoughtfully has helped me grow not only professionally but personally too.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a photographer and retoucher based in New York, focused on capturing emotion through light, gesture, and detail. Last year I completed my first gallery show in over twenty years, which reignited my commitment to evolving as an artist. Right now I’m redesigning my body of work and expanding into video, retouching, and event photography. My main goal remains portraiture and editorial work, but I’m also adapting to the shifts in how images are made and shared. I recently upgraded to a mirrorless camera while keeping my DSLR for my more personal projects. The industry keeps changing, and I’d rather evolve with it than be left behind.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
For a long time, I only trusted myself. Then in my thirties, I started looking for guidance and expected that listening to others would lead me somewhere new. It didn’t. I realized that while advice can help, no one knows my instincts better than I do. I’ve learned that pushing against the grain is uncomfortable but necessary if you believe in what you’re doing. Patience doesn’t come naturally to me, so learning to wait without losing focus has been an ongoing lesson.
A small example of this happened back in college at Pratt. A teacher I respected once told me I should go into makeup instead of photography. I didn’t take it personally, but I ignored her. I loved photography too much to let someone else redirect me. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t listen. I’ve seen people take well-intentioned advice that derailed their passion. Sometimes you just have to trust that your own vision will prove itself in time.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell her that her thoughts matter and that she should be careful with the way she speaks to herself. It’s easy to believe that everything you are doing is wrong or that you will never succeed, but if you keep repeating those things they start to feel true. I would tell her to be patient with herself and to see mistakes as part of learning, not proof that she is failing. I still have moments where those thoughts show up, but I’ve learned they pass if you keep moving and stay gentle with yourself.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Smart people are getting it wrong by conforming too much. Even when facts are available, many choose to follow the louder opinion instead of questioning it. I see people speak passionately about things they haven’t really studied or experienced, and it’s frustrating because curiosity gets replaced by certainty. In the arts, this shows up when people follow trends instead of exploration. True creativity requires doubt, reflection, and sometimes being unpopular. You can’t make something original if you’re too busy trying to fit in.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I understand that every person in front of the camera brings a mix of confidence and insecurity, and it is my job to make them feel seen in the best way possible. During portrait sessions, I focus on keeping things light and fun so the energy never feels like work. Knowing my equipment and being able to pivot quickly when things do not go as planned helps me stay calm and present. I never yell or argue because tension always shows in the final image. I pay attention to the environment and the person so I can adapt. In the end the goal is simple, to create something honest and beautiful together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.biancaalexis.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biancaalexisphoto/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-alexis-96250234
Image Credits
First 6 images Bianca Alexis
Last Image Ibuki Tsubo https://ibutsubo.com
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