Rising Stars: Meet Tana Lee of North Raleigh

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tana Lee.

Hi Tana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started photographing in high school and have always been drawn to the fine details that come with it, jewelry in particular. I love the way necklaces can highlight a collarbone or how rings can elongate the fingers. The juxtaposition of human anatomy and jewelry has always garnered my interest. With this in mind I began taking detail shots of models highlighting only their bling. These photos in particular have always been my best work. They say when you begin creating you are working towards your taste. This is why you are your worst critic. Many of my other photographic work simply does not stand up to my tastes yet. But my detail shots of jewelry? Those are incredible.

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?
No, I don’t think it ever will be. From the outside it might look like a much smoother road than what I’ve truly been down. I had to try a million different styles and things to find out what I was best at. I had to listen to myself and trust myself when it seemed no one else did. I think the hardest part of doing something like this is allowing yourself to fail. I’m not going to be a perfect fit for everyone and I’m not going to get every job, but that doesn’t mean I’m not perfect for some jobs. It takes a bit but learning that not everything is personal and not everyone is going to like you or your style is what makes someone successful. Having resilience makes the hard roads look much smoother than they really are.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Well, I’m known for a lot of things. I’m the self appointed queen of being a multifaceted artist. There’s nothing I can’t figure out if I really want to do it on my own. I even know how to stick weld! However, I would like to be known for my detail and jewelry photography, modeling, and creative direction the most. I like to teach people and give opportunities to those I feel would be a good fit for them and that mindset brings me the most pride. Something that really sets me apart is the fact that I’m not in anything just for myself. I have a team of people and if I don’t fit a job perfectly I am so happy to pass it along to a team member and let them take lead. Success comes from the people around you. If I don’t build up those around me at the same time as I’m building myself I’ll never have a strong enough foundation to withstand the inevitable storms.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When looking for a mentor it is super important to find someone that you and others feel comfortable around. They also need to have a teaching style that you can understand. Not everyone teaches or mentors the same way and thus not everyone can learn as much or as well with everyone. It’s also important that you find someone who is happy to share your accomplishments and LET YOU FAIL. Failing is such an important step in the learning process and if you have a mentor who won’t allow you to make those mistakes you’re going to be terrified to take the next step. My best advice is to find a teacher who you can learn from without feeling pressured. It doesn’t matter their age, gender, or honestly even their success rate. If they have quality work and skills to share, listen.

Pricing:

• Styled shoots start at $750
• Brand photography starts at $1000
• Model development package (ask me about it) $3500
• Jewelry photography starts at $550

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.tanaleedesigns.com
• Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/tanaleephotographer