Meet Alexandrea Leigh | Event & Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Alexandrea, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My mom has been a hairdresser, a CNA, a children’s music instructor, and is now a realtor. She has always thought with an advance towards the future and enabled herself to be free of scheduling restrictions and financial vendettas. Because of this background, the thought-process behind starting my own business began at a young age. The idea of being totally free to create my own schedule, be my own boss, and make my own money has been an attractive idea since I was around 10 and walking around the neighborhood with my dog walking cards. Though that was a short-lived business, it’s definitely fun to reflect on and see how far I’ve come. The motivation and passion has been there from the start; despite the differing business ideas I’ve had. When work is not something you dread, you’ve found your calling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think the first question can start out with something that I value- Loyal authenticity. It’s is what I would like to be known for and characteristics that set me apart. I’m passionate about reality and loyal to my true self and genuine with my clients from the minute I meet them. I strongly believe that authenticity and creativity go hand in hand when documenting your story, brand, or purpose. Staying true to who you are is the most important step to create content that is set apart and truly you. I want to create things that show the individuality and authenticity of an individual. I want my photographs to show your vision, your unique character, your beauty, and your laugh. Getting to where I am professionally was not necessarily an easy journey. I met a wide variety of roadblocks and bumps- starting with the various people who told me that this isn’t a real job, the people that told me that, in order to mean anything to the world- I needed a college degree, to the financial aspects and the hustle needed. These aren’t the typical challenges, per say, I know some of this advice came from people with my best interest at heart and, I’m not mad about having a bachelors degree four years later- in fact, I know that it will be useful, even if I don’t think so at the moment. The thing is, I listened to these people and I don’t necessarily think of these issues as challenges anymore. They seemed like challenges because all I wanted was to get started and work my passion straight out of high school and these ‘interruptions’ did not seem worth my while. Fast forward 4 years, I’m 21 with a bachelors and a business in the midst of a pandemic and I honestly cannot be more grateful for all of the life experiences I’ve had. Throughout the process, I’ve learned that things aren’t always as they seem & investing in yourself is important, the return of investment is sky-high when you’re in charge of the investment 😉 Finally, fulfilling your purpose is more important than anyone else’s opinion. You’re responsible for your own happiness- NO ONE ELSE IS- so don’t give anyone else that luxury.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is actually a super fun question because, oftentimes, my best friend and I will take a few day trips to some areas and play tourist. In Orange County, we’d start the day by taking a (strenuous or laid back) hike down in El Moro Canyon and visiting Reborn Coffee in Corona Del Mar for a macadamia latte, fresh almond croissant, (literally the best we’ve had!) and a late morning walk around the neighborhood. After passing by some exceptionally adorable houses, we’ll find a private beach and sneak into it for a morning swim (or kayak session?!). After that, we’ll sit on the beach for awhile and people watch to our hearts content while listening to some of our favorite acoustic jams. Might be a little hungry at this point, so maybe we’ll drive down to Newport Beach and visit JuiceMi, my friend Mimi’s shop with the most aesthetically pleasing juice bowls to be found. We might hangout around the area, or drive back up towards Laguna Beach to beach hop, do a little shopping, another coffee run, and then pick up some greek food (at Zeytoons!) for a sunset picnic on Crescent Bay Beach

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout goes to my mental twin. My beautiful, inspiring, ambitious sister. I always attribute my passion for photography to my sister- despite the fact that she was never extraordinarily ‘into’ photography. However, she was my muse. She introduced me to the camera and has never told me ‘no’ when I had a seemingly crazy idea. Most people label or stereotype things they don’t understand- Sierra is an exception. I like to think of her as my personal cheerleader (and model.) I am and forever will be grateful for all of the time we’ve spent together learning more about ourselves, testing the limits, and setting new goals.

Website: https://aisling.design
Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.saltyginger
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrea-brewer-4b5292124/

Image Credits
Savannah Banton