May 15, 2017

Meet Rachel Ranucci of Ranucci Photography in Ventura County

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Ranucci.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always known I was a creative. I started out in drawing, and in high school, I planned to take a drawing class as my mandatory elective. For whatever reason, the class was unavailable that year so I took photography instead. I knew pretty quickly it was something I loved. I was motivated to learn the technicalities of photoshop, as my teacher incentivized me by offering free printing paper, film, and other photography related items in exchange for teaching him something new. Looking back, I can really attribute my love of photography to my high school teacher who was a mentor to me and someone I looked up to. I took both classes offered, and participated and won a couple of local art shows. Photography started out as just a hobby, but I soon started having family and friends ask for my services. As soon as I got a website going, it really started to take off as a business for me. I love having the ability to make my own schedule, and connect with awesome people every day.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Of course not! Being as young as I am, I had to learn how to conduct myself professionally at a young age. I’ve lost countless jobs due to people thinking I “don’t have enough experience.” I also have trouble explaining to people that my fees are for more than just the pictures they get in return, but for the countless hours I spend online learning new techniques, gathering information, driving time, time spent at the shoot, and then of course the organizing and editing. So, staying firm on my prices has also been a challenge for me. I’ve also been burned by faulty camera gear and some very expensive repairs. But all-in-all it’s been a very rewarding, self-improvement journey!

Please tell us about Ranucci Photography.
So I am a freelance photographer that specializes in couples and fashion photography. I am hired by clothing companies to shoot look books and promotional material, and I love being able to work with local models and other businesses! My passion however, is photographing couples. I specialize in adventurous, real, emotional and raw captures of their special moments. I have lately been very proud of the features I’ve been getting for my couple’s photography. Big brands like LooksLikeFilm, Beloved Stories, and Tribe Archipelago have my work featured on their websites and/or social media. I’ve been told that I’m very efficient during and after photoshoots. I mean business and know how to get the job done, while still taking an interest and getting to know my clients. I typically deliver sessions within a couple of days, which people always appreciate.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would definitely be pickier about the jobs I take. I’ve been trying too hard to never have to say no! I realize now that I should have been better investing my time on the jobs I love and see my brand sticking with in the future.

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