Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa de la Torre.
Hi Marissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my photography journey in Oakland, California about thirteen years ago! Living near Lake Merritt, I was really into documenting all the people and action through taking photos. I then moved to LA shortly after and then begin to pursue Pet Photography, focusing on finding dogs and dogs forever homes at local shelters and rescues. During that time, I moved to Downtown LA and started to focus again on street photography, just as I did in Oakland. I still was practicing Pet Photography and began a small dog walking and pet photography business that I ran for about five years. I then got burnt out on the dog walking aspect of the business and decided to focus solely on photography, but now branching out to portrait photography- humans this time. So, for the last four years, I have been building my portfolio and style focusing mostly on humans portraits, lifestyle and fashion.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Finding my niche and clients has been the hardest. Just because I may be *creative* that doesn’t necessarily mean I know exactly what I have wanted to do or sell myself at being good enough people want to hire me. Valuing myself and learning the business aspect has been the biggest challenge!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I still am a Pet Photographer although I try to focus on getting more *human* clients.
I say this because I try to use my skills as a Pet Photographer to help get pets homes through clean, happy and bright portraits of them with local rescues who save dogs from local shelters.
When human clients do want bring their furry friend in for their portrait, I always take pride that I am well versed in getting the perfect pawtrait for them!
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
As phone cameras are getting more smaller, sharper and just all around better – it’s become harder for photographers to often sell themselves to a potential client when the client thinks they take better *selfies* or just better pictures because they have access to filters and phone editing software. Although I do agree with this at times and it really depends on what is being sold. Having a professional photographer direct talent, set up a shot with lighting and use their experience can make a better picture- in my opinion.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: marissadela.com
- Instagram: marissadela
