Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Metz.
Hi Valerie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been a professional photographer for the past 10+ years. I started photographing weddings and lifestyle- I was in the industry for ten years and it eventually it felt like too much having my own family and I was burnt out. During my last few years of weddings, I grew a passion for documenting motherhood specifically on film. What inspired me was not only my own journey as a parent but also finding old photos and getting VHS tapes converted of my mom from when she raising my sister and I. I began looking up motherhood photography to see what attracted me and I realized there was still a lack of BIPOC mothers, including their culture and style. I felt it was important for me to start highlighting and capturing ALL kinds of mothers because there is room and a need for ALL of us which is how Moms on Film got started. I also do content creation very casually which is so fun!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been surprisingly smooth overall, however my own struggles have been my own insecurities. I focus a lot on uniqueness and bringing out that uniqueness in others so that they can also feel seen and understood, which causes me to feel I’m not doing or dreaming enough at times. Creative ruts also happen naturally and I’ve been learning to just let them happen and to sit in them instead of fighting them. I think another struggle which also happens when your owning your business is the need for people to hire you and support you financially! As a creative, it’s a weird balance between creating when you feel inspired but also “hustling” and need to be consistent so that you continue to get business.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I do content creation and film photography! For my content online, I focus on lifestyle (fashion, health, home, etc.) I feel like I am known as a lifestyle mom who is also a creative and shares my own personal experiences as a Latina. As a photographer, I focus on 35mm film and motherhood. What sets me apart is focusing on BIPOC moms, which isn’t highlighted as much as they should be.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I haven’t had photo mentors but I’ve been inspired and cheered on by my own mom’s friends that know me and pour into soooo well. I also follow online (and have worked with) a few moms who also happen to be photographers that inspire me with how they create and view motherhood! Nicki Sebastian is my all-time favorite!
Contact Info:
- Website: momsonfilm.co
- Instagram: instagram.com/momsonfilm
- Other: instagram.com/mammafolk
Image Credits
Kari Tello Nick Francis
