Today we’d like to introduce you to Elina Dmitrieva.
Elina, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I moved to Los Angeles from Hollywood Florida on 11.11.09. Several months later my ex and I started ActorsEssentials, photographing young actors from the building that we lived in Studio City. Kodi McPhee was one of our first clients. ActorsEssentials grew rapidly but almost came to an end when my ex wanted to switch the company’s name to his name. I was too fond of ActorsEssentials to just let it go so easily so I decided to fully take over which all turned out for the best since shortly after we parted ways.
I expanded into my own niche capturing people’s essence. There are several elements involved to make that possible. A big part of my job is to hold a positive and uplifting environment which allows my clients to shine and be who they truly are. I love seeing a major shift happen from the moment they arrive, to the moment that we start shooting. I also love to mentor, inspire and share wisdom with anyone that reaches out for guidance. I’m a big believer that sharing is caring so any industry tools that I have, I share. I love seeing people succeed and accomplish their dreams, there’s something magical about it.
The process of the photo session is pretty simple and definitely exciting. The client arrives at my spot in West Hollywood with several wardrobe options. Together we figure out what works best for the type of roles that they go out for. Then we head to a couple of spots with perfect natural light. I only work with natural light because I believe that’s the best option to capture naturally beautiful headshots. Natural light allows me to play around and work with different angles, backgrounds, and positions.
With the combination of good vibes, specific wardrobe, and special lighting technique, we capture hundreds of eye-catching photos that stand out. The only thing my clients ever complain about is that there are too many great shots to choose from. I say… that’s not a bad thing. 😉 My clients have booked jobs like Jane the Virgin, Speechless, Bones and many more.
Has it been a smooth road?
There are too many headshot photographers in LA. It’s very competitive, but my packages are very reasonable and my work speaks for itself so clients come my way by word of mouth.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and career?
I remember several years back my good friend Sajata told me that I’m a lucky girl. I honestly don’t believe in good or bad luck. I think it’s all about the energy that you put out there. The more energy that I put out from my heart, the more amazing opportunities and people that I’ll attract. Whatever intention you set out to the Universe is what you’ll get back in return so… We create our own luck.
Is there a quality or characteristic that has played an outsized role in your success?
I feel that in order to succeed it’s important to be optimistic, persistent, and in harmony with my creative flow. Life is full of challenges so it’s important to stay on top of the game and keep moving forward no matter what comes up. Throughout my career and life journey, I always strive to be the best that I can be. Also, I like to check back in with my higher self and tap into my heart center to ask myself… What is my true mission and purpose in doing what I’m doing? As long as my inner voice answers to help people and be of service, then I know I’m on the right track.
What do you love about our city and what do you dislike?
Ever since I was 13 years old I had a calling to move to LA. I heard all sorts of stories… People are stuck up, it’s trashy, you have to be careful out there and the list goes on. But I knew that past all those illusions, there was magic in the city. I would say to my friends and family that there’s something big waiting out in LA for me… I don’t know if it’s career wise, some kind of a mission I’m meant to achieve, start a family or all of the above. I just knew it’s something special.
Moving to Los Angeles has been one of the best things that I’ve done in my life. LA is a place where anyone can come and make their dreams come true. Anything is possible as long as the desire comes from the heart and you stick through the roller coaster ride.
I love how many health and wellness communities are out here supporting one another. I love nature and the weather. I love that there are endless opportunities. I love that there are tons of activities around, you’ll never get bored. And most of all I love how many beautiful souls I’ve been blessed to cross paths with. Most of my clients and I stay in touch. We hike, do yoga, grab coffee, and they keep me updated on their projects and bookings.
Just a couple of downers about LA, though I do my best to look at it in a light way… 1. Traffic can suck, but only during certain hours that I try to avoid. 2. Competition gets the best of people at times, but everyone has their journey to face. 3. Hummm I can’t think of anything else at the moment. lol
Pricing:
- 2 Looks – $200.00 Wardrobe Consultation, Private Link to Online Photo Gallery, & WeTransfer of All High-Resolution Photos
- 3 Looks – $300.00 Wardrobe Consultation, Private Link to Online Photo Gallery, & WeTransfer of All High-Resolution Photos
- 4 Looks – $350.00 Wardrobe Consultation, Private Link to Online Photo Gallery, & WeTransfer of All High-Resolution Photos
- 5 Looks – $399.00 Wardrobe Consultation, Private Link to Online Photo Gallery, & WeTransfer of All High-Resolution Photos
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ActorsEssentials.com
- Phone: 818-920-8518
- Email: elina@actorsessentials.com
- Instagram: http://yooying.com/ActorsEssentials
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ActorsEssentials/
- Other: https://www.yelp.com/biz/actors-essentials-west-hollywood-2
Image Credit:
Sarah Kenny, Paris Dylan, Brit Flemons, Shannon Makhanian, Jocelyne Watts, Judah Alan
