Meet Aubrey Chandler | Photographer & Creative Director

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

Hi Aubrey, why did you pursue a creative career?
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been drawn to the arts, to the theater, to creative writing,. I love the freedom of expression that comes with a creative career. And I also love the opportunity to create with other types of artists, working on the same project. Team work is the best, and the energy is exciting.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Most of my professional life had been working as a model & actress. I was in Los Angeles one day when my small digital camera was stolen. It really bummed me out because I had photos on it that I took of my kids. I remember getting my tax refund and thinking I would buy a professional camera to replace it. I literally had no idea how to operate a professional camera. I invited a girl friend over after I received the camera in the mail & I took photos of her all day and into the night. She was blue in pictures & we were just laughing and rummaging through the camera handbook. But by the end of that day, I realized I was addicted to photography.
Although I have never taken a class, I feel that my modeling background, my obsession with studying fashion magazines for most of my life, and just this fun concept of “playing dress up” with a team & creating stories (my acting background) all came into play. I really love watching an entire team put their creative efforts together & bringing a concept to life. I also feel it’s so important to be sure your subject feels comfortable and happy during a shoot. Building that confidence is essential to getting a good shot.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
You got me on this question! I’m such an introvert, I’d likely take them to places around the city that most don’t frequent. For example, I like to visit this vegan restaurant in Little Haiti. Most people have probably never heard of it, It’s called Vegan Marie. The people, the atmosphere is so lovely. These are people who work hard, they are humble & they have such joy doing what they do. I also would take a friend for a drive into Southwest Ranches. It’s an incredible neighborhood that feels like you’ve stepped out of the city completely. There are lots of animals & wild peacocks in the area. It’s a charming getaway. I would also take a friend down into the Florida keys.. And likely into the smaller keys that most don’t frequent. I always love the places off the beaten path. That’s where the magic always is. That’s where you will find people with the most fascinating life stories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My late best friend/soul sister Joy Nash. She has been a huge instrument to my success in photography. She was the most vibrant, joyous, and encouraging person I have ever met. She always pushed me to go further, even when I doubted myself, She came from a place of pure love. Her name suited her perfectly. I’m forever grateful for the life opportunity to know her.

Website: http://www.aubreychandlerphoto.com

Instagram: @aubreychandler

Linkedin: Aubrey Chandler