We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aleni Barkley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aleni below.
Hi Aleni, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic is genetic. I watched my father hold multiple jobs at a time the majority of my life. I watched my mom attain an education while working full time. Both of my grandfathers passed away very early in my parents’ life, so my grandmothers had to be providers. My maternal grandmother did a lot of physical work that was considered unusual for women during that time period. I also chose a career that is physically demanding. My goals also motivate me to work hard. It is important to make a lasting impression with everyone that I work with. The industry I chose is very saturated, but my promptness and my work ethic helps me stand out.
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 shoot both stills and video. I specialize in portraits, sports and events. I’ve shot four state championships, multiple film premieres and industry mixers. I have worked as a behind the scenes photographer on set. I’ve also produced marketing content for other entrepreneurs, organizations and public relations agencies. Shooting sports is very exciting because everything is unpredictable, including the weather. I have to keep my head on a swivel to get the right shot and also stay safe. It’s always exciting to add a new face to my portfolio. I never know who I’ll run into when I cover an event.
I want people to know that I use my camera kit to tell stories. I want viewers to feel like they were present at the scene when viewing my stills and video. When people see my logo, I want them to associate it with clean, quality work.
I’m looking forward to working with more models, stylists and designers in the future to create iconic looks in the studio or on location.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three skills that impacted my journey are: customer service, organization and networking. The customer service jobs that we take for granted are the ones that prepare us for entrepreneurship. The goal is to keep clients comfortable and happy. It’s important to reflect on both negative and positive experiences when working in customer service to better serve your clients. Organization improves productivity and combats procrastination. Creating daily goals or a to-do list will help you manage and organize your time. This habit comes in handy when your schedule is hectic. Keeping your equipment and files organized improves workflow and can decrease the time you spend on a task.
Networking is essential because people can’t hire you or book you if they don’t know you exist. I encourage people to introduce themselves to a minimum of ten people when attending an event. Don’t be afraid to bring your tools with you. My camera is my brand, and we are inseparable. It’s important to also keep a digital or physical business card on you at all times. You want to easily transfer your information to potential clients and employers.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I pray and do things that bring me joy. There are going to be times when you’re constantly on the move or times when you feel like there is a great weight on your shoulders. When those times arise, you should reflect on your journey and how you tackled those difficult tasks. Spend time with your loved ones and do things that you enjoyed when you had no responsibilities. Go to the arcade. Spend the day at the park. Have dinner at your favorite restaurant. Plan a movie night or game night with your family and friends. Take a break, even if it’s only for a brief moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alenibarkley.smugmug.com/
- Instagram: Instagram.com/_abarkley_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aleni.barkley?mibextid=haYZDX
- Linkedin: LinkedIn.com/in/a-barkley
Image Credits
Aleni Barkley
