Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Vonn.
Hi Tina, 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’ve always been drawn to creativity, in all forms and has taken me to follow many paths as an artist. I started out in performing arts, acting and singing and writing songs as a form of therapy. To having people write me very personal and emotional letters expressing how my music helped them get through tough moments. It’s been a really gratifying journey knowing that my art is affecting others and it keeps me excited to create more.
My curiosity for expression has always led me to photography, I loved it as a child shooting on film with my dad’s camera. When it cost $2 to buy and develop, here I go exposing my age! I’ve always felt a pull to the lens, and my passion for it has now grown into a thriving business built on helping people feel seen, express themselves and feel confident in front of the lens.
Covid really hurt a lot of people including me, I lost loved ones and still have lingering effects from the virus. But it also gave me the time I never would’ve had before to invest in myself. The time to explore and learn more about photography while I was stuck at home in a fish bowl waiting for the world to heal. I stopped being a server at a restaurant and started figuring out what it was that I wanted to do. What filled MY soul. Instead of worrying about how I was going to pay the bills I discovered new talents and realized I could actually make a business out of doing something I loved. Even though covid brought a lot of pain it also brought a new beginning for me.
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?
I think it’s always a bit difficult to forge a new path, there’s always learning curves and mine isn’t immune. The cost of quality camera equipment being one of them. I urge any aspiring photographer to use what they have while they learn and not go out and buy the best and most expensive camera right away. Learn how to shoot and then when you’re ready go invest in yourself.
Also, finding clients was one of the beginning struggles I had. Luckily I’ve now stayed consistantly booked and busy the last 2-3 years from 100% referrals. I think when your quality of work and personality speak, people listen. I’ve dedicated myself to my photography and I’m seeing nothing but rewards now.
For acting, I’ve been a victim of the slowdown just like everyone else has. The cutdown on opportunities has been scary and it’s been a really sad time for actors in LA. I know so many who have moved out of state, or have had to get jobs that they hate because there isn’t much work anymore. I’m hoping with the new tax credits work will come back. I used to have many auditions a month and now I get maybe 1 or 2 every few months.
I also feel like women of a certain age become invisible and I’m grateful to see a more diverse inclusion of talented and incredible women in this business. I aim to show that we are still valuable and have so much to share.
I’m still hoping to keep acting but I have to say I’m very grateful I have my photography business to keep fulfilling my creativity.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a photographer who specializes in making people feel amazing in front of the lens. Be it fashion, headshots, editorial, weddings, I always aim to make sure my clients feel their best. When they feel good they look good! One of the most common things I’ve heard as I’ve grown in this career is how often people don’t feel seen and I aim to make sure they do. I feel that one of my unique qualities is making people comfortable and allowing them to be their authentic selves.
As a writer I’m most proud of my film pilot that I co-created with the incredible Susan Rudick. We worked so hard and I have to say it’s one of my most accomplished achievements so far. We’ve gotten into multiple film festivals like the Oscar qualifying LA Shorts, and Montreal Independant Film Festival, San Francisco International, Austin Comedy Film Festival and Susan won Best Actress for San Fran and we just won Best Dark Comedy Episode at the Austin Comedy Film Festival!
I believe my empathy sets me apart from others. Whether it’s a photography client I’m directing or an actor reading words I’ve written, or acting on set. I feel my empathy really helps me connect with others on a deeper level.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I would say if you want a mentor the first step is looking at the people in your business that are doing well and see if they are giving advice or have any tips to their success. I did a lot of research online as I was navigating my photography career, and found a few people that I respected. I never did a mentorship but I watched what they did and it helped a lot. There is always a Facebook group for everything too. Join facebook groups and connect with people there. I’ve avoided a lot of mistakes by seeing what others have done.
Pricing:
- Weddings starting at $3000
- Headshots starting at $400
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tinavonn.com/photography
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinavonnphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1.tinavonn
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/tinavonn/videos
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FBxnBmyvJVUgnSH8hlAaI?si=wFB7IE7wTpaNBZhSvd3NVw
Image Credits
Tina Vonn Photography
Susan Rudick, Peggy Miley, Freddy John James
Laura Elizabeth Dromerick
Jude Lanston and Val Harvey
Chelsea Smith and Jordana Howard
Tomas Trafa
Emily and Isaac Franco
Sapphira Cristal
Jacqueline Castaneda
Aaron and Sara Doolittle
