When I shot with Henrietta a few weeks ago, I just knew I had to feature her on the blog! Not only does she do amazing photography- she is also 23 and is currently perusing her PhD (Talk about goals!). Henrietta recently moved here from New Jersey and has continued her photography as her side biz while she is in school. She gave me all the deets on not only why she started photography in the first place, but also her least favorite things about what she does!
Tell me a little about yourself. Where did you grown up, get your degree in etc? What is your current job?
I’m Henrietta. I grew up in Nigeria but moved to New Jersey 9 years ago for school. I got my Bachelors in Marketing and Management from Seton Hall University & my MBA from Stevens Institute of Technology, both in New Jersey. I’ve just started my PhD in Political Science at University of Houston so that’s my full-time gig but, I still make time to be a fashion & lifestyle photographer.
What made you decide to start your career?
When I moved from Nigeria to a boarding school in Pennsylvania, I started my junior year in high school not knowing anyone and being the introverted “new girl”, so I joined the yearbook committee and was assigned to take the photos. Several people loved their photos and I got wonderful feedback so I asked for a digital camera for my 17th birthday and I’ve been on a roll ever since. & no, I did not get any formal training in photography.
What inspires you on a daily basis?
People. I love photography so much because it not only allows me to express my creative side but also meet some extraordinary individuals that inspire me every day.
What is your favorite bible verse & why?
Deuteronomy 31:6. In a world where relationships & friendships can be so temporary and fleeting and sometimes, especially as a young person, it is difficult to see what is coming next (like my moving to Houston for example). It gives me great peace to know that God remains steadfast, no matter what. Even if everyone in my life disappoints me and no matter where life takes me, He will neither leave me nor abandon me to figure it out on my own. He’s always there.
What’s something you would tell your 20-year-old self?
Know your worth and learn how to say no.
What is your end goal with your career? What do you want to accomplish?
In terms of photography, I would like to shoot for high fashion magazines and luxury brands but also expand into video production and editorial work.
P.S.- I shot recently with Henrietta for a campaign I had with HEB
What are the 3 most important things you would tell someone starting off in their career?
- Don’t let the “no”s get you down. Someone will say yes and appreciate your work.
- Bring your A-game at every opportunity, from major clients to those just starting out. You never know whom someone knows.
- Don’t try to be like everyone else. Stick to your aesthetic and trust yourself.
What is your favorite thing to do regarding your field?
In terms of photography, I love the end. I still get like a flutter in my stomach when someone says they loved their images. I really hope that never changes.
What is your least favorite?
Sometimes, shooting can be stressful. I’ve shot in both >100 degree & 18 degree weather and it can honestly be super stressful and hard.
What has been the most surprising challenge within your field?
I can be very shy so reaching out had been a challenge but doing so, thus far, has been so rewarding.
Until Next Time!
-B
