I recently had the honor of photographing Andrea Feinstein. I asked Andrea to tell me about her journey and career path, and this is what she said:
“I’ve had this amazing career path. There aren’t a lot of women working with hedge funds nor in energy.
As a woman I’ve had an unusual career. I was in finance until 10 years ago and predominately managed portfolios consisting of energy, power and renewable companies. I left with some colleagues who had been in similar positions, and founded a company focused on downstream energy and in particular, how to transition transportation fuels into more renewable alternative energy.
One of the things I love as a person is wellness and food. The newly founded company, in addition to focusing on downstream energy, also developed a brand that reimagined what a convenience store could be for those on the road. When I think about stopping at a convenience store there isn’t anything that I’d want to eat. We developed a concept that would provide options to someone who eats healthy, and would want products found at Whole Foods or Trader Joes, consisting of sandwiches and salads that are locally sourced built with real ingredients and focused on nutrition.
This new ‘convenience store brand’ spoke to who I was as a professional. It also let me flex the other things that are important to me from a health and wellness perspective.
It’s exciting and fun to think about how to take this combination into my next life. I’m thinking about what aspects to focus on, i.e., operational, investing or food and wellness. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) is a big focus for me. As I look to the future with a thoughtful and critical eye, I’m looking at myself from the lens of the strengths I bring to the table. I’m excited for what the future holds.”
Andrea commented: “I’ve never found that my voice has been quieted and have been very lucky in a lot of respects, surrounding myself with people who have empowered me.”
Her takeaway – Trust your instincts and always surround yourself with people that are trying to extract the best from you. The bigger your vision, the more you can achieve.
Andrea, I love that!
About Alissa
Alissa Randall is a portrait photographer based in New Jersey and New York City, known for creating images that feel both elevated and deeply personal. While professional headshots remain a cornerstone of her work, her photography has grown to include personal branding, women’s empowerment, family connection sessions, and expressive portraits of dogs and the people who love them.
Her approach blends editorial artistry with empathy and guidance, helping people feel comfortable enough to be fully seen in front of the camera. Whether photographing an executive, an entrepreneur, a family, or a beloved dog, Alissa creates photographs that reflect more than appearance. They reflect presence, personality, connection, and story.
Alissa photographs in NJ, NYC, and on location beyond the tri-state area. Explore more of her work on the homepage and discover stories behind the images on the blog.