Today we’d like to introduce you to Phoenix Neri.
Hi Phoenix, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I’m Phoenix Neri, a Mexican American queer, immigrant, artist, and wedding photographer originally hailing from the captivating landscapes of Mexico. I grew up in south central LA. My journey into the world of photography began organically; my grandfather was a photographer for a magazine in Mexico, and that was a big influence in my life. I enjoyed photography throughout high school. Through photography, I found solace and expression behind the lens, capturing the nuances of life, and it became my profession.
As I matured in the bustling metropolis of LA, navigating the rich cultures that define the city, my photography evolved into a medium of landscapes and portraits. I enjoy hiking as much as I do photography, and with weddings, I get to blend both. Taking beautiful portraits of people at one of the happiest and most memorable times of their lives, I carefully craft and compose each shot in a way that captures their essence, personalities, and happiness. It was such a rewarding experience.
With success is a journey with lots of challenges and introspection. As a business owner, I grappled with the unspoken realities of entrepreneurship – the late nights, the uncertainties, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. Success is often portrayed as a linear path. Success is not a destination but a journey that is characterized by perseverance and resilience. It’s about embracing the process, even when the results seem elusive, and finding fulfillment in the pursuit of one’s aspirations. My experiences compel me to advocate for transparency in the narrative of success, to shed light on the untold sacrifices and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey. I have found myself many times over questioning and learning, navigating the world of business. I got a bachelor’s in business and a Certificate in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. Having the business degree has helped me in so many ways. I am currently enrolled in a Masters of Digital Marketing at the at Southern New Hampshire University. I am looking forward to graduating next year and applying all of the knowledge in my business
I believe in the power of mentorship in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and artists. By sharing our stories and insights, we empower others to embark on their own paths with clarity, purpose, and insight. For me, success is not just about individual achievement but about creating a community to inspire others and mentor.
Photography has given me so much by enriching me with experiences, connections with people, inspiration, and a means in which to support myself. Most importantly, photography has given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. In moments of doubt or uncertainty, I’ve found solace behind the lens, losing myself in the art of creation. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth, pushing me to constantly evolve and challenge myself creatively.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Photography can be a highly competitive industry. I think after Covid many people decided to explore photography and make it a career.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was establishing myself in a highly competitive industry. Breaking into wedding photography required not only talent and skill but also relentless persistence. Building a reputation and a client base from scratch was no easy feat, and it took years of hard work and dedication to gain traction.
Financial challenges were also a reality that I had to confront. Starting out as a freelance photographer meant navigating the unpredictability of income streams and managing the financial aspects of running a business. There were times when finances were tight, and I had to make difficult decisions about investing in equipment, marketing, and other essentials while staying afloat. This was a particular challenge throughout Covid.
Moreover, balancing the creative and business aspects of photography proved to be a constant juggling act. While I was deeply passionate about the artistic side of my work, I quickly learned that success in the industry also required strong business acumen. From managing bookings and contracts to marketing and client communication, I had to wear many hats as a photographer and entrepreneur.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Photo Craft Studio?
Photo Craft Studio has been operating since 2016. We specialize in weddings, events, and portraits. What sets us apart from other photographers is our ability to really connect with our clients and produce amazing imagery as well as going above and beyond their expectations. What I am most proud of is the work and creativity that goes into every shoot we have. Particularly, weddings is where our talent, skills, and creativity is honed in the most.
We are a BIPOC, queer, immigrant, female-owned business in LA. Even amongst all of the challenges people face in today’s world, we are thankful to serve our amazing clients who make support Photo Craft Studio.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I think that luck is created through hard work, resilience, and experience. I think luck is also a choice in perspective. Being able to frame any mistakes, problems, mishaps into learning experiences makes a big difference.
Pricing:
- Wedding Photography starting at 1275
Contact Info:
- Website: www.photocraftstudio.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/photo.craftstudio
Image Credits
Phoenix Neri
Mckinley Griggs
