Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Strauser.
Amanda, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up always into art, projects out of random things, drawing cars, and just wanting to create. My great-grandmother is one of my biggest influences. Looking at her paintings, print-makings, and drawings always inspired me. She helped lead me to the creative I am today.
When I was just out of high school, I picked up a camera and started taking photos of my family and friends. I got good feedback from those sessions, and each session got better. I think that applies to this day; in art, you never stop learning. I earned a BFA in graphic design with a minor in studio arts from Lindenwood University. I continued to do photography on the side helping me to stay creative. After graduation, I landed an agency job, and that’s where my love of food styling photography started. Helping with many a photoshoot at the agency I started to watch the food stylists come in for food photoshoots and I realized that was just another art form that I wanted to try. I took a course, practiced, and then started doing food styling and photography there. I kept up with my photography on the side and started to do bigger things like weddings, family, and pets! I took on a new full-time role as a Global Marketing Specialist recently. This role keeps me creative, utilizing my photography, graphic design, and digital marketing skills. Even with all of that, I keep photography on the side. I love that it has developed as I have grown. I am passionate about giving people quality photography, freelance design, and food styling.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would have to say my photography style was a struggle. I think you get so stuck in a niche at the beginning where you want to be like the other photographers. I have found that you must keep creativity alive and that every photo shoot is different they don’t all have to look the same.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in Graphic design, photography, and food styling.
My graphic design specialty is invitations, logos, and branding. I have been doing a lot of wedding invitations lately as well as other events. When it comes to logos and branding, I have experience in many industries.
I specialize in Pet, Food, Family, Senior, Engagement, and Portrait photography. I do some weddings, but they are not my main thing. I enjoy a good puppy photoshoot or capturing family memories!
Food styling is my latest passion, I enjoy taking photos for restaurants, home bakeries, and more! I love setting up the food to look as yummy as can be!
What sets me apart is that I take on every project with your goal in mind. I want you to have a design or a photo that is unique to you and your brand or family. I enjoy a challenge, maybe that’s why I like pet photography so much? I am a jack of all trades, and if I don’t know how to do something I will figure it out.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I have invested a lot in my food styling surfaces. I have a wide variety of backgrounds I can use now. I have not had a chance to use all of them yet, but I hope that my investment will pay off. Having them on hand now keeps me ready and not having to wish I had them when I need them.
Contact Info:
- Website: amandarie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandarie__/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandariephotography
- Other: https://www.behance.net/amandarie
Image Credits
Amanda Rie Photography
