Meet Marques Harris

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marques Harris. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marques below.

Marques , appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?

There are several ways I keep my creativity alive, and one of the most important is through collaboration. While many photographers today approach collaboration with a “what can I gain?” mindset, I see it differently. For me, collaboration is less about personal gain and more about stepping outside of my comfort zone. It’s a refreshing opportunity to try something new and push creative boundaries. It also allows me to connect with new people on a deeper level, often building relationships that extend beyond the project itself.

Another key to staying creatively inspired is surrounding myself with like-minded individuals. Whether I’m bouncing ideas off friends or peers in the photography industry, those spontaneous, unfiltered conversations often spark some of the best concepts. Sometimes we’ll be in the studio throwing ideas around, revisiting old shoots, or imagining ways to reinvent them. Creativity thrives in community, and I value those moments of shared inspiration.

Lastly—and perhaps most importantly—I prioritize rest. I firmly believe that taking a break is essential to maintaining creativity. Stepping away, even for just a couple of days, helps me reset and return to my work with fresh eyes and renewed energy.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a professional portrait photographer based in Rhode Island, proudly serving clients across the surrounding states. Specializing in graduation portraits, birthday milestones, and editorial-style shoots, my work is defined by a clean, modern aesthetic infused with vibrant personality.

With a keen eye for lighting, composition, and detail, I create high-quality imagery that feels both polished and personal. My editorial-inspired approach allows me to capture the unique essence of each subject—whether in maternity sessions, fashion portraits, or brand-focused lifestyle shoots—turning every frame into a timeless visual narrative.

My passion goes beyond simply taking pictures; I aim to create an experience that makes clients feel confident, seen, and celebrated. From thoughtfully planned concepts to guided posing and on-set direction, I ensure every session feels effortless and creatively fulfilling. Known for honoring individuality while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision, my photography bridges the gap between personal storytelling and professional presentation.

Whether you’re marking a milestone, building your brand, or simply wanting to capture your best self, I bring artistry, intention, and authenticity to every shoot—delivering images that resonate long after the moment has passed.

I’m currently working on holiday photo sessions, creating warm, seasonal portraits for both individuals and families. These sessions are designed to capture genuine moments, festive details, and the unique personality of each person or group. Whether you’re looking for classic holiday cards, updated family photos, or something fun and creative, I tailor each session to make the experience enjoyable and the results memorable.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

It’s hard to narrow things down to just three, but if I had to choose: staying optimistic, finding a mentor, and shooting consistently.

My optimism is deeply influenced by the environment I keep—being around like-minded people who inspire me and push me to grow. It’s easy to slip into negativity when you don’t have a supportive network or aren’t intentional about the energy you allow around you. Alignment matters. The people you surround yourself with shape your mindset, your goals, and your outlook on life.

I’ve learned the importance of building a community that uplifts, motivates, and holds me accountable. It’s never too late to find your circle—those who share your values and your vision. My network fuels my optimism not only for my goals, but for life as a whole.

Another major factor in my growth has been having a mentor. Early in my photography career, I struggled with direction, and that guidance helped me find clarity and stay committed to my vision. If you’re feeling stuck, I highly recommend finding a mentor who can offer perspective, support, and alignment.

And finally—shoot as often as you can. Consistent practice is the most powerful way to master your camera, understand your settings, and sharpen your eye for lighting and composition.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal photography client is someone who selects me not only for my professionalism and artistic expertise, but also because we connect naturally before, during, and after the session. A strong creative alignment is essential; their vision should harmonize with my artistic approach and editing style. This mutual understanding ensures a seamless experience and allows us to create meaningful, authentically inspired images together.