Today we’d like to introduce you to Allie Nelson.
Hi Allie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2016, I moved from Southern California to Austin, Texas. I came to Texas to attend The University of Texas at Austin. I established residency and then transferred into the Radio, TV, and Film program. During my time in school, I worked on growing my film and photography business. I photographed weddings, birthday parties and worked on set for various professional shoots.
By 2021, I had been working in the service industry for five years. I was finally reaching my limit—managing a restaurant through the pandemic had been exhausting. I wanted to work on my business full-time. In fall of 2021, I was finally able to do just that.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In March of 2020, I was a student managing at a restaurant, with a side hustle in the events industry. Not the best combination during a pandemic—all of those industries were drastically affected. Classes became virtual—which particularly frustrated me as my field of photo/video was so hands-on. Restaurants had new guidelines given to them every other day, and the events industry was almost nonexistent. These last few years have been challenging for us all and it certainly tested my ability to manage stress while also growing my business.
I learned quickly that I had very little power over anything that was happening. School was online, restaurants were frazzled, and events were canceled. I found the only thing I could control were my choices. I could go to college, or I could stop. I could work in a restaurant, or I could quit. I chose to stay and push through despite how scared I was of failing or getting sick. I photographed a wedding in August of 2020, and while I was incredibly nervous, I was determined to grow my business. The clients were mindful, courteous, and I felt comfortable working with them.
One big lesson I learned during this time was that saying no to a gig was sometimes my only power. Today, in 2022, that lesson is still relevant. As I’ve grown and developed relationships with ongoing and new clients, I’ve learned that saying no to a gig can be your biggest strength. Finding clients that are a good match is just as important as securing those clients in the first place.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a filmmaker and photographer based in Austin, TX. For film, I specialize in weddings, documentaries, and narrative shorts. One of the projects I’m most proud of is a series of mini-documentaries for The University of Texas at Austin. I created a video exhibition showcasing students’ work in a jewelry design course in a Textiles and Apparels department that partners with Kendra Scott. The students’ design jewelry and a selected piece is then made by the Kendra Scott team. I have also worked on various professional shoots as a production assistant, art assistant, and BTS photographer.
In regards to photography, I specialize in weddings, events, and senior portraits. One of my favorite weddings I photographed featured a bride and groom who got married at a local park near Lake Travis. At the end of their ceremony, the couple leaped off the edge of a cliff and dived straight into the water! Today, the photos remain as some of my all-time favorites.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I feel as though resilience is an essential characteristic that has contributed to my success. In five years’ time, I had moved across the country, saved up for college, attended school full-time while working part-time, all while working on my business on the side. I had also faced many personal setbacks that challenged me.
I found that pushing through the hard times didn’t necessarily make me stronger. Rather, I proved to myself I was strong all along. I embraced my creative side and have found it to be my biggest asset in life. Through my work, I want to tell meaningful stories that will affect others. Be that with beautiful wedding photos, a funny commercial, or filming an important life milestone. I put my heart into every creative endeavor I pursue and I can’t wait to see what the next project brings.
Contact Info:
- Email: allieHGP@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.hicksgirlproductions.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hgpweddings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hicksgirlproductions
