Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Maldonado.
Vanessa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve been shooting since I was a freshman in high school. Seeing my city (Los Angeles) behind my lens, the magic of processing my first roll of film, and the hours spent in my HS darkroom, led to a passion that has carried me through the years.
I continued shooting through college, and after years of capturing the streets of LA and later private events, I briefly decided to hang up my camera straps and pursue office administration. This decision was made during the financial crisis of 2007-2009 with the hopes of returning to my camera once it felt right to do so.
In June of 2015, I took the first substantial break in my career when I had my daughter. While maternity leave is anything but a break, it did provide time to take note of my priorities, and the concept of legacy became more meaningful to me, So, I started shooting away and thus began my return to photography.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Navigating the world of self-employment has definitely provided some challenges. Most issues have been resolved by deeper creative commitment.
For instance, sales and marketing are not my strong suit, however, by taking nearly every photo job I could get my hands on, in the beginning, I was able to build relationships which led to greater opportunities. This method may have been slower, but it was a perfect pace for me.
Really, every experience has provided a chance to grow and allowed me to meet some great people along the way. Most importantly, I feel more connected to my craft than ever.
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I specialize in family sessions, engagements, and artistic portraits. My goal is to connect with my clients and really get a sense of who they are. Whether it’s a headshot or a large family outing, I want that beautiful thing that makes you, you to shine through.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I guess I don’t really see luck as either bad or good. There were lessons to gain from my most challenging experiences as well as the fortuitous ones. Both inform my practice, my relationship with people from all walks of life, and I am grateful for it all.
Pricing:
- Families and Maternity, $350 for a 2-hour shoot and all final edited images.
- Portraits and Headshots, $250 for up to 2 hours including all final edited images
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vanessamaldonadophoto.com
- Phone: 323-493-5602
- Email: vjmaldonadophoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessamaldonado_photo/
Image Credit:
Vanessa Maldonado Photo
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