Hidden Gems: Meet Tess Alexander Helberg of Tess Alexander Photography

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tess Alexander Helberg.

Hi Tess, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My photography journey started in 2008 when I was a senior in high school. I had just received a little point-and-shoot camera as a gift from my parents. Without knowing anything about photography and being someone who refuses to read directions, I decided to play around with it. I began taking photos of random things around my house and school. From swing sets to flowers, I loved it! My parents weren’t used to me haven’t something for more than few weeks and continuing to use it. So they later upgraded and got me a Canon Rebel camera.

When I got my camera, I had a friend that was releasing a music album and was hoping I could help him shoot some photos for the cover. Not knowing what I was doing, I was really nervous. Shooting still life is much different than photographing people. But with him strumming along on his guitar it made it much easier to capture some beautiful photos without having to worry about posing and such. After that shoot, I received a few more inquires from my music friends asking to shoot their photos for various projects. Soon after, my photography business simply fell into place.

I ended up getting into Azusa Pacific University in Southern California for college. It wasn’t a question what I wanted to study. Photography was what I wanted to do. I wanted to really understand all that I could about photography. Not only the free creative side but also the technical side of photography. I ended up graduating with a BA in Studio Art with an emphasis in photography, and a minor in graphic design.

After graduating from college in Los Angeles, I created a brand new photography website for Tess Alexander Photography. I was a music, portrait, and family photographer. Until a couple of my good friends from college announced they were getting married! They wanted an engagement shoot at Disneyland. I was ecstatic! We shot all over the park. Their chemestry was magical and there wasn’t a better place we could have shot. After posting a couple images I was contacted by Disney Engagements and asked if they could feature my photos on their website! There my wedding and engagement photography really kicked into gear!

I made sure I started small! I was very aware that I needed more experience in order to become a larger wedding photographer. I had friends asking if I could shoot their backyard weddings. I started from there, and the business simply grew! I spent years growing my business in Southern California and 2.5 years ago my husband got offered a job in Nashville Tennessee! It was a big decision, but we decided to take the leap and move.

We keep telling ourselves it’s the best decision we ever made! It was hard initially since all my photography contacts were back in California. But the industry out here has welcomed me with open arms. I have definitely added a little country aspect to my work since moving to the south. I am now working full-time as a Wedding/Portrait/Engagement photographer, and I love every minute of it!

I had no idea that the young 17 year old girl with a little camera would grow into a 34 year old established wedding photographer in Nashville Tennessee. I am grateful for all my wonderful couples and vendors I have met along the way, and I am truly loving the career I have built over the years.

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?
The wedding industry out here is definitely different! But I have loved learning about all of it. The southern hospitality is very real! I feel like a part of the family now when I am working with my couples.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Tess Alexander Photography?
My name is Tess Alexander. Owner and Head Creator of Tess Alexander Photography. My signature style is light, bright, and airy. I like staying true to color for my work. Over the years I have worked with people that are comfortable and uncomfortable in front of the camera.

I have been told my calm demeanor and positive energy really pulls people out of their shell. I think it helps that I truly enjoy what I do for a living. I love capturing couples on the best day of their lives.

Can you talk to us about happiness and what makes you happy?
Being all around creative! From drawing, crafting, taking photos… I love it all! I feel like I am leaving my footprint with each project I finish.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tessalexanderphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessalexanderphotos/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tessalexanderphotography