Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Soriano
Hi Stacy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I first started using the Kodak disposable cameras in elementary school in the early 90’s and always had some type of camera since. But it wasn’t until 2011 after my first mental health crisis that I took my first photography class at Riverside City College that I realized it was more than just a hobby. It was therapy and pure love for something I was always into since I was a kid.
I was originally going to major in photography but fell in love with photojournalism at Pierce College in 2014 when I was a part of their student-run newspaper, the Roundup. I then continued at Riverside City College where I was a photo editor with Viewpoints, their student-run newspaper and that’s where I evolved into the photographer I am today.
I slowly started picking up photo gigs from people I knew and just kept networking throughout Southern California. I told myself then that I wouldn’t turn down any photo gig and I believe that’s what helped me grow as a photographer overall, since it’s all about experience. Thankfully as a freelancer I have had the privilege to work for several non-profits, artists, private business owners, and a sports media company.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been smooth for sure, during my college years I was told by a counselor that I shouldn’t pursue photography since you don’t make much money from it and that was discouraging. But I did not give up, since I was never in it for the money, as I believe doing what you love is more important.
Besides being discouraged by that counselor my biggest struggle was my mental health. Due to many traumas I encountered from childhood into adulthood; I have had to start from zero several times and it has been tough. But I have put a lot of work into my overall health and without that I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently freelance all over Southern California but my clients are mainly in Los Angeles. I would say I specialize in photojournalism in general, which is storytelling through images. I love capturing people or nature in their natural element without having to manipulate the subject matter.
I’d say I am most proud of being in several art shows throughout Los Angeles County. One of my goals has been just that, to have my photos in an art gallery one day and it has happened.
I believe what sets me apart from others is my versatility, I can capture anything from studio portraits to action sports photos.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
My view on risk taking is doing something you fear, which I have to continuously do. I have taken many risks with my photography from accepting any type of photo gig to entering art shows I didn’t feel capable of being in. Overall risk taking has played a major role in my growth as an individual and I am grateful for all the experience I’ve gained in the process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stacysoriano.blogspot.com/
- Instagram: @stacysorianophoto
Image Credits
Peter Phun, Corina Marmolejo
