Daily Inspiration: Meet Valeriia Rieka

Today we’d like to introduce you to Valeriia Rieka

Hi Valeriia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Valery, and I’m a family photographer based in Los Angeles. I moved to LA in 2022 when the war started in my home country, Ukraine.

I’ve always worked closely with people in different roles. During university, I was an English teacher for preschoolers. That job really shaped my personality because working with kids requires being open, confident, fun, and engaging – all while building real connections with them.

Later, I worked as a talent manager for an international production company. That taught me discipline, teamwork and how to handle big projects, even when I had no prior experience. It pushed me to believe in myself and stay flexible in challenging situations.

Photography has always been a part of my life. My parents gifted me my first camera when I was in school and I started taking pictures for friends, their businesses and eventually families. Family photography has become my passion and I’m excited to keep growing in this field.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’d say it’s been a smooth road, but not always consistent. I didn’t dedicate all my time to photography at first, but I’m glad I eventually found a way to create something I truly love.

I’ve always known I wanted to photograph people – especially their emotions and interactions. Over time, I discovered a deep sense of purpose in capturing genuine family moments. These photos tell real stories and preserve the beauty of everyday life, which is what inspires me the most.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve found a deep purpose in family photography because time flies so quickly – kids grow up, parents become older and it’s such a blessing to look back at photos of everyone happy together.

My background in working with people, especially kids, helps me create a relaxed and easy atmosphere during photoshoots. Families feel comfortable and that allows me to capture their genuine emotions and connections.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe the most important characteristic for success is consistency. It’s essential to analyze, stay flexible, think creatively, act quickly, and remain consistent—especially in creating content on social platforms. With dedication, these efforts will always bring results—whether sooner or later.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.valeryfotik.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valery.fotik

Image Credits
VALERY.FOTIK