WOMEN ARE MAGIC | Michelle Norris
MICHELLE NORRIS
Give her a follow and say hello!
@michellenorrisphoto | @tropicophoto | tropicophoto.com
1. Tell me a little bit about you, who is Michelle outside of work?
I love to get outdoors, travel, and thrift shop! I love art of almost any kind and I'm obsessed with dogs, especially my own dog Taco. I've lived in Atlanta for almost 6 years and love being based here.
2. What do you do for work?
I co-own the creative advertising photography team Tropico Photo with my husband Forrest Aguar. I also do fashion blogging and influencer work on my Instagram account.
3. As a female business owner, what are some of the biggest obstacles you have faced within your industry / the workplace?
I find it pretty difficult to assert myself and stand firm in the value of my work. I think women are trained to apologize a lot and to come across likeable more than anything else. Having a male business partner has actually really helped me to see these inequalities and also feel confident in being direct and going after what I want.
4. What women in your life inspire you and why?
My mom always inspires me, she is unapologetically herself and is such a strong person. Also my two best friends, Maura and Kate inspire me with the ways in which they are constantly loyal, kind, and intelligent throughout so many phases of life and in our friendship!
5. What advice would you give to women who want to pursue a new life direction -- whether that be moving to a new city, pursuing a new career path, starting a side hustle or choosing a new major in school?
Don't second-guess yourself! I think it's important to commit to what you want and go after it without wondering if it's the "best" thing or the "correct" choice. There really is no perfect answer to anything so don't let wondering get in your way.
6. How do you balance a job, personal life and passions? Is there such a thing as balance?
It's always changing. Working with my business partner and creating for multiple platforms mixes everything in a bit for me. I really love it all though so that does give me a sense of balance even when the lines get blurred. I try to pay attention to how I feel above anything else to notice if I need to make a change or re-balance by stepping away from work or social media more intentionally.
7. What are some ways you implement self-care?
Exercise and Sleep! I love to get back into my workout routine after a busy few days, it really helps me rebalance and feel great. The same thing applies for a good night's rest where I might even skip setting an alarm for the morning.
8. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders, movers and shakers?
You are totally worthy of whatever it is you want in life!
9. How can women advocate for each other?
Practicing more empathy and trying to extend the benefit of the doubt to others. Also not undervaluing and underselling yourself helps other women too!
10. What is your power color and why?
Yellow! I just love the bright and positive vibes and I want to project that always.
11. What is your female anthem – the song that hypes you up and makes you feel like a girl boss and that you can take on anything in the world?
Juice by Lizzo
Portrait illustrations are by Hailey Coral.
