Today we’d like to introduce you to Robyn Alwi.
Hi Robyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey started by accident. In high school, 2009, I signed up for a week-long program at an art institute. I chose graphic design but ended up in the photography program instead. I decided to go for it anyway. I believe it was fate.
When I first graduated from Shippensburg University, I had zero confidence I could make this a full-time business. I took photography commissions on the side, but I didn’t go full time until after COVID hit. Pregnant with my second daughter in 2021, I finally took the leap. I still can’t believe how my self-confidence has skyrocketed and that I pay the bills as an artist. Now I help others find their own confidence in front of my camera.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I was my own biggest obstacle. It took everything in me to convince my brain that I absolutely can sell my art and make a living doing it. I had to retrain my brain to be okay with making money. And that my clients are out there who value my work. After that, there’s ups and downs like any business, but I keep persevering. I problem solve, and I pay mentors who have way more experience than me to guide me. There are times I want to give up, but I don’t. Because honestly, if I could choose any job in the world, it would be exactly what I’m doing now.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Women’s portraits are my specialty whether it’s lifestyle, maternity, boudoir, fashion, branding or modern glamour. It’s full-service, so they get their hair and makeup done, and they use my walk-in client closet filled iwth outfits, accessories, angel wings and even a mermaid tail. My passion for portraits stems from how toxic social media can be. Growing up, the media almost exclusively showed one percent of the population: young, skinny, flawless, white women. It’s better today, but still nowhere near as inclusive as it should be. I want to see realness. As Kendrick Lamar said, I want to see something natural like stretch marks. So I show that in my portraits while bringing out the best in my clients.
Unless they say otherwise, I will show that scar from the double mastectomy. I will not edit out wrinkles from the skin of someone who has been lucky enough to make it to 80. My clients come from all walks of life where I show it all. There have been countless tears shed in my studio as we discuss the journey of healing from trauma. Women who have been sexually assaulted come in for boudoir sessions to reclaim their body. As someone who has been abused, I especially love helping others who have suffered from abuse to see themselves in a kinder light – the way their loved ones see them.
I have a special 40 Over 40 and Fabulous campaign for women over 40 to show that beauty and strength have no age limit. I once photographed a fiery 90-year-old woman for this, and I hope to photograph a centenarian next. I also give back to the community through the campaign’s annual gala, which raises funds for the Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland and Perry Counties. Domestic violence has touched many of the women who join the campaign, so it has been incredible to give back. The next gala is scheduled for May 15, 2027, and I am currently inviting women to join the campaign.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Ai is wild. Oh my gosh, the horrible AI generating portraits that look freaky. Dead eyes and 12 fingers. I don’t think a machine will ever truly be able to provide portraits that show people’s souls. Yes, they are getting more and more realistic. But only a human can provide an experience and create authentic art. People who value art, are not going to suddenly stop hiring artists. The problem is people who don’t value art, can now go the cheaper, AI route. But, those people aren’t my clients anyway, so I don’t feel any particular threat there. AI is fine but only when used responsibly and honestly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.robynalwiphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynalwi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobynAlwi/
- Other: www.robynalwiphotography.co (this is specifically for the 40 Over 40 campaign)
