Check Out Erika J. Wood’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika J. Wood.

Hi Erika J., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Outside of being an Actress, I pride myself on understanding the power of utilizing my gifts! It’s easy to be multi-talented, but how does a person apply all their gifts – (is what I would often ask myself.) Since relocating to Washington, D.C. from New York, I’ve started my own photography business: “Imagery by Erika J.”  For years, I’ve been in front of the camera but was always interested in finding my unique eye behind the lens….so in 2017, I began traveling around and taking photos.  Because art is subjective, there’s no right or wrong way to express yourself. I choose to empower the world through my lens: to build self-confidence and capture the beauty in all things. Additionally, my photography style is vibrant, earthy and sophisticated.

I’ve always been an “outside of the box” individual, and my photos mimic that. I love shooting outdoors because I believe the elements of nature bring out the best in us.
For the longest time, I did not know how to balance my talents (acting, modeling, singing, etc.)  What I’ve discovered is, it takes tenacity, focus, organization and following your intuition. I often remind myself that there is nothing I can’t do! I also find it fulfilling how self-acceptance has played its role in my evolution.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I believe obstacles are both internal and external. Some internal battles I’ve faced were self-doubt (Am I good enough?) Some external battles were culturally and environmentally based which always had me questioning myself.  A word of advice: You must tune out the noise, decide what makes you happy and do what’s best for you!  After gaining the freedom of not caring what others thought about me, I found my way!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a graduate of the University of South Florida, I’ve walked away with a B.A. in Public and Cultural Communications. After graduating I began my career in the Performing Arts and have studied with David Allen, Marc John Jefferies, Scott Powers Studios, Alyse Kenny, and Erica Palgon.

I’m grateful to have been a part of wonderful projects on networks such as: NBC, BET, and Nickelodeon. As well as ABC’s “What Would You Do?”, MTV’s “The Kids Ain’t Alright” and the award-winning film “Orange Bright.” I also had the opportunity to work on ‘The Mo’nique Show’ as the Academy Award Winners Stand-In (2009-2011).

Artistry runs through my veins, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking and finding a trust-worthy mentor within your industry are paramount!  However, if there is no one to talk to: talk to yourself, you’ll be surprised just how honest your intuition is…. listen to it!

Pricing:

• Headshots / Lifestyle / Couples / Families – $150.00 – $300.00
• Promotions for Small Businesses – please visit https://www.imagerybyerikaj.com/  for rates / pricing
• Real-Estate photos – please  visit https://www.imagerybyerikaj.com/  for rates / pricing
• Special Events – please contact ImagerybyErikaJ@gmail.com   for rates / pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imagerybyerikaj.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imagerybyerikaj
• Other: http://www.erikajwood.com/

Image Credits
Imagery By Erika J. –  www.ImagerybyErikaJ.com
Acting  –  www.ErikaJWood.com
Main Article photo – me in striped jumpsuit on gray wall