Today we’d like to introduce you to Alycia Skye Bardon.
Hi Alycia Skye, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have been in the equine industry for a little over twenty years, training and competing. I even received my Associate’s Degree in Equine Science and Management. I wasn’t too sure where I wanted to go and spent some time trying to find my direction. After some research, I learned about equine media and equine marketing. I have always been a creative individual who loved writing as well as taking videos and photos, so immediately I was inspired. I went back to school to earn my Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Communication with a concentration in Digital Journalism. During my time at school, I got to work on projects that really validated my decision, including a documentary on the Standardbred racehorse industry. Something I really started to fall in love with was having a connection with the community and learning their stories. I had a few internships with various equine media companies, even getting to go to horse shows to interview riders, which was an incredible experience. It really started to feel like I found my passion and my career. The missing piece of the puzzle for me was a professional camera. Growing up, I always had a camera in my hand, and as a child, I dreamed of starting a photography business. However, that dream always felt unattainable. I knew this was the next step I needed to take to grow my career, and I was so fortunate to be gifted my camera by my family, which completely changed everything for me. I immediately began to take lessons, practice, and just play. I spent about a year taking the camera with me to the barn where I board my horses and taking as many pictures as possible. Everyone was so supportive and encouraging in my pursuit, taking time to be my models. What I have been enjoying the most has been seeing people light up when they see a beautiful photo of their horse, or being shocked by an action shot of them riding. It’s so satisfying and rewarding to give someone that. It goes back to being connected to the community. After a year, the people in my life began to suggest that I start my own business. It was daunting for sure, but I took the leap.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s definitely not easy, and there have been a lot of struggles and learning curves along the way. But it makes the successes and the wins so much more worth it! I have some pretty big goals and dreams for myself, and so much more to learn. There is never enough time in the day. I currently work two part-time jobs and freelance to afford my necessities as well as build my business. There are the photoshoots where you completely mess up your camera settings, and clients who cancel on you at the last minute. I can be very hard on myself and struggle with allowing myself to just be a beginner. I find myself often comparing my work to those who have been in the industry for years and have the top-of-the-line gear. I experience imposter syndrome almost daily and question if I am doing the right thing. Even though there are struggles, it just makes me work even harder to be better!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My photography business is A.Skye Photography, and I specialize in equine and fantasy photoshoots. For the equestrian side of my business, I offer photography services for training rides, portraits, horse shows, and sale or lease photos. I really love highlighting the connection and bond between the rider and their equine partner. I even had a Santa photoshoot for Christmas at a barn where people can take photos of their horses with Santa! As I started to learn and grow and promote my equine photography, I noticed photographers who specialize in fantasy photography, think Dungeons and Dragons, elves, fairies, Renaissance Faire, whimsy, main characters in a fantasy novel. I have always loved reading, and I also enjoy writing fantasy stories, so I was really intrigued by the fact that I could combine those passions within my photography. I started to wonder if this was something I could try. My first fantasy photoshoots felt incredibly creative, bringing to life scenes that could have come right out of a book. I have begun to host fantasy photoshoot events at various parks in my area, and people can book a time slot and have a photo session. They can dress like a fantasy character, from ballgowns to fighting leathers. It’s really fun to see how everyone dresses, and I am still surprised by my clients’ efforts and commitment to the theme! During these shoots, it has been really cool to see people become instant friends and cheer each other on. I have started to build a community of main characters, which I am pretty proud of! I am now hosting fantasy photoshoots with my local Book Clubs. Right now, my fantasy photoshoots have become the most popular! I am really looking forward to growing both my equine and my fantasy photography.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family for sure has been my biggest cheerleaders and has had a huge role in the success of my business. I wouldn’t even have my camera if it weren’t for them! They are the ones who have seen me at my most vulnerable and have given me some of the best advice when I am dealing with my lows. They are my emotional soundboard for business and marketing ideas. There is also my group of friends, whom I am so incredibly thankful to have by my side. They are my biggest advocates and have been the voice of reason whenever I start to doubt myself. They are also so willing to be models when I want to practice and so happy to lend a helping hand during my photoshoots. I’ve been given amazing opportunities to work on projects with people close to me. None of this would be possible without my community, and I am so grateful to have everyone. I also need to shout out the clients who book with me because I really appreciate their trust and support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://askyephoto.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.skye_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/a.skyephoto
Image Credits
A.Skye Photography
