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It’s Black Business Month, a great time to highlight Brandi Ali, a dedicated photographer. She exudes a magnetic charm that draws people to her free-spirited and adventurous soul. Brandi’s romantic spirit finds inspiration in the beauty of life’s most fleeting moments, which she wholeheartedly shares with the world.

Contrary to traditional photography norms, Brandi’s work transcends mere aesthetics; she captures the raw essence of human connections and genuine emotions, rejecting artificial perfection in favor of heartfelt authenticity. With a deep understanding of what fuels her passion, Brandi embraces her individuality and infuses her photography with love, sincerity, and a touch of simplicity that keeps her creativity ignited.

In the midst of the delightful chaos often found when photographing families, Brandi unveils the hidden beauty and love that lie beneath the surface, showcasing the unfiltered magic of real-life moments. Through her lens, she celebrates the imperfections of existence, drawing inspiration from the authenticity of real love, real people, and genuine interactions, inviting families to show up just as they are, and allowing her to capture the beauty unfolding right before their eyes.

How long have you been a photographer?

Brandi Ali: I’ve been a photographer all my life but Officially for 9 years.

What started your passion for photography?

Brandi Ali: I grew up watching my grandma, she is also a photographer. She bought me a camera almost every year for my birthday. Even though I went to college for something completely different, I had a child in 2011 and my hobby became an obsession after I started taking pictures of her.

Do you believe in work-life balance? If so, how do you maintain it?

Brandi Ali: In the beginning when I was growing my business I did not understand what that was. I’ve always worked a full-time job and ran my business so balance did not exist.  Within the last few years, I really worked hard to keep everything separate to maintain a healthy work-life balance.  One of the things I implemented was no editing after 5 pm and only for a few hours on weekends. Editing is the majority of the job in photography. I also charge more for weekend sessions because weekends are important in my house and I do not want to work every weekend for the rest of my life.

What is your favorite type of photo to take? (Weddings, events, family, etc) 

Brandi Ali: My favorite session or photos to take are anything with movement. I am a big believer in styling and when I style I choose pieces that will allow movement. I am obsessed with wind-blown hair, walking or running, dresses blowing in the wind, or a mama swinging her braids around. Everyone is either super relaxed or happy when they are moving.

What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs, especially in the photography space? 

Brandi Ali: For anyone trying to enter into this space, I would say that it is normal to want to do what everyone else is doing but in order to make it, you have to have your own lane. It is scary to do something that is different and most do not know how to go about it but staying true to you and what gets you excited is important. Even if you have to say no to clients that do not align with your vision. Also, you have to invest in learning how to go about growing your business and your craft.

How can our readers connect? 

Brandi Ali: Website: www.brandiali.com

 

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Brandi Ali