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

Hi Victoria, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has changed over time through me learning when to let things go, and being aware of my needs. It is so easy to think “one more and then I’ll stop”, especially when it’s something I enjoy doing like editing photos, and even more so when I get in the flow. But you can’t pour from an empty cup, and if I’m not taking time to take care of myself emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually… that just isn’t sustainable. I can’t show up for my clients the way they need me to. A requirement is that you take care of yourself, that you be ok so that you can continue to serve others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m most proud of pushing myself through the imposter syndrome. it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison with so many other artists, but each artist has their own vision, and that’s what makes them so unique and incredible. I don’t think my photography journey was easy. There are different systems and techniques to learn and I push myself so I don’t get complacent. I think it’s important to hold on to the reason you started your journey in the beginning. If you have to, go back to your first love, and it’ll remind you about what made you passionate in the first place.

I want the world to know that it’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out, you don’t have to work in what you went to school for, and it is SO important that you do what you enjoy. Do what you love.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take her to Blowing Rocks Preserve up north in Hobe Sound, dinner at CasaBlanca on the Bay in Miami, Sugar Factory, jet skiing, parasailing in South Beach… we’re doing all the things.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my father for planting the love of photography before I even recognized it and my mother for encouraging me to pursue it. I would also like to shout out David Samuel from David Samuel photography who has taken on a mentorship role and pushing me out of my comfort zone.

Website: www.victoriaashleyphotos.com

Instagram: @victoriaashleyphotos

Facebook: facebook.com/victoriaashleyphotography19

Image Credits
David Samuel Photography

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