Meet Alyssa Phillips | Photographer & Nurse

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alyssa Phillips and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyssa, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
As a young photographer and business owner I had all the time in the world. I could shoot whenever I wanted, edit whenever I wanted and really didn’t have to worry too much about my schedule (other than school). Fast forward 12 years and I’m a mother, wife, nurse, photographer/film maker, and trying to stay (at least a little bit) sane.

Getting married and having kids made me look at my priorities differently. Not only did I have these other people to care for and love, I had a full time nursing job that I loved and wasn’t as flexible as photography. I’ve had to learn to say no to some projects and even had to take a break from wedding projects for a year to focus on my family. My kids will only be little for a short time, so every single adjustment that is made is through that lens. By looking at it this way, I have had no regrets in how I’ve had to adapt my business to my change my life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a young photographer I knew very quickly I wanted my style to be simple and natural. Bright and airy didn’t seem to quite feel right, dark and moody didn’t feel classic. After trial and error, years of changing my style, and I’m sure hundreds of dollars and hours in editing classes and presets, I’ve finally found my style. I’ve always loved looking through family photos, old videos, and even strangers family photos. I want your photos to be something you’re proud to pass on to your children and their children. These images are history. Your history. There’s been a lot of doubts and questioning my abilities over the years but once I grabbed onto this idea of documenting your history, it all fell into place. I’m most proud of how I conduct my sessions, how at ease my clients feel with me, and how natural my images look.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m born and raised in the great city of Tucson. Home to Sonoran dogs and Eegees. When friends visit, we always make sure they get both of these things. We always try to make a stop at Sabino Canyon for some hiking or Redington Pass for some off-Roading. And while they’re here we ALWAYS make sure to spend a night two-stepping at The Maverick King of Clubs.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There have been so many hands involved in my life, from family to friends to youth pastors/mentors. The ones who’ve had the biggest impact are the ones who are always there. First and foremost, my faith and belief in Jesus Christ and His hand in my life has brought me where I am. My husband is always rooting for me. My mentors Jonathan and Naomi always show up, no matter what. And my photography bestie Alixanne from Photography by Ali K. She pushes me and encourages me and I’ve never had a friend like her.

Website: thisisalyssaphillips.com

Instagram: @thisisalyssaphillips