Meet Andrew White | Photographer & Writer

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

Hi Andrew, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started working for myself when I realized that the traditional marketing and ad agency model is broken for creatives. I took a look at what my agency was charging for my time and then looked at what they were paying me and realized how much money I was missing out on. I eventually started booking freelance work outside of the agency and was making more than I did at my full time job. Outside of the monetary difference, I always felt very limited by what I could do creatively in that role and had so much more fun doing my own thing. So, 7 years later I am still working for myself and have been doing my best work and having a great time doing it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I recently published my first book and am so happy and excited about how it turned out. I am very proud of that book because as a photographer in the digital age, most of my work is viewed on screens and it is very cool to be able to hold something physical in my hands and see my work come to life.

I have had ups and downs throughout my career and it has been challenging at times, but overall it has been very worth it. Being a one man show has its pros and cons. Being able to make your own decisions and work on your own terms is great, but it can be a lot running an entire business on your own.

One of the most important lessons I have learned along the way is how important it is to collaborate and build relationships with people. It isn’t always about the money. Sometimes taking a job that pays half of your normal rate can open up doors down the road. It is also important to be true to yourself in terms of the work you take on. If a gig pays well but doesn’t match what you are trying to do creatively isn’t worth the money.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Im a low key guy and enjoy low key spots. You can catch me hanging out in the dive bars and under the radar restaurants that have the best food in town.

I would take them to my studio in Franklinton and then bop around the area and check out other artists spaces.

The Short North area is a must for people who have never been in Columbus.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t have been able to do all the things I have been doing if it wasn’t for my clients, partners, and friends who have supported me along the way. I am lucky to be a part of such a thriving art and creative community here in Columbus and am constantly inspired by the people I get to work with and be friends with. I have to shout out to my friend and business partner Ryan Ransom, him and I have worked on a lot of projects and he always pushes me to take things to the next level and make things happen!

PersonalAndrewWhite

Website: andrewleewhite.com

Instagram: @andrewleewhite

Image Credits
Photo of me was taken by Seth Moses Miller