Meet Tori Johnson | Photographer & Brand Designer

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

Hi Tori, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always loved art and getting to use my creativity for as long as I can remember. Growing up my parents weren’t supportive of my art and said all artists are starving artists. As I got into high school I still really wanted to pursue art as my career and prove everyone wrong that I can turn photography and design into a career. I did just that, I worked hard building my portfolio while working full time. Fast forward to the end of 2020, I am now a full time photographer and brand identity photographer. Starting Studio Wholehearted was one of the best decisions. I really want to show others that its possible to go after their dreams wholeheartedly.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started Studio Wholehearted with the intention of helping other creatives with their brand and finding their “why”. I believe what sets Studio Wholehearted a part is that I only work with other creatives. It was very hard to get to where I am and without the support I have from My husband and all of my friends. With my parents telling me growing up that I would never make it I decided that I was going to pursue my dreams anyway, and I did just that. Now I’m 22 and a full-time photographer and designer. One lesson that I learned and stuck with me is, Community over Competition. We are all in this journey together and why not support each other and be encouraging.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Charlotte has a lot to do so I would start with coffee at a cute local coffee shop then go thrifting, then walk around uptown. For food Optimist Hall is the best because there are so many different options to choose from and a fun place to just hangout.

After exploring Charlotte for the day I would take them up to Asheville for the day and go hiking and walk around their downtown. The next day we would drive to Wilmington and go to the beach and get a cute Airbnb for the night and getting brunch at a cute restaurant before heading back home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to recognize my amazing husband James, I couldn’t be where I am without his support and his push to go full time with my business! Also thankful for the amazing photographers in Charlotte NC that have encouraged me through my journey especially Aisha Maness

Website: www.wholeheartedcollective.co

Instagram: www.instagram.com/studiowholehearted