Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Cernik
Hi Christina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Thank you so much for the interview! I truly appreciate the opportunity to share my story.
I grew up in Virginia dreaming of a life filled with creativity, fulfillment, and the freedom to build something meaningful. Even as a kid, I was drawn to the arts: writing, photography, singing, acting and storytelling were ways I made sense of the world. I knew early on that I wanted to create a life where my passions, calling and impact intertwined.
After high school, I moved to Florida for college, immersing myself in photography, design and communication. After graduation, I worked in luxury interior design, helping launch multiple business ventures, including a design office, retail store, showrooms and a restaurant. I refined my artistic voice, took risks and turned my passions into something tangible. I officially launched my photography business nearly ten years ago in the summer of 2015, initially capturing a wide range of subjects – from portraits to events and creative projects. Over time, I honed in on my main passions: brand, travel and wedding photography.
Over the years, my career has taken me all over the world, from breathtaking coastlines to intimate mountain weddings, allowing me to document love stories in a deeply personal and intentional way. I honed my craft shooting both film and digital, developing a signature style that blended elegance with an effortless documentary feel. Along the way, I expanded into writing and artistic ventures that reflected my passion for psychology and personal growth. Recently, I launched The Growth Journal with Christina Cernik, a podcast that explores meaningful conversations about creativity, life lessons, transformation, entrepreneurship, faith and reflection. I’m also in the process of writing my first coffee table book, which will showcase my film photography and poetry.
After years of growth, challenges and learning, I fulfilled one of my biggest dreams: moving to Laguna Beach and creating a life that blends creative freedom and personal fulfillment. Today, my work continues to evolve through photography, mentoring other creatives and writing. My journey has been anything but linear, but through every pivot and challenge, I’ve stayed true to my vision: to create, reflect, inspire and leave a lasting impact on everyone I meet. I am rooted in faith and hope for the future as I open a new gallery and office on PCH in Laguna Beach. I firmly believe with God, all things are possible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any entrepreneurial journey, there have been many challenges. There were times of uncertainty, unpredictable challenges and personal setbacks, including navigating a move across the country and rebuilding after a robbery. Each hurdle has built my resilience and pushed me to refine my vision, creative pursuits and goals. The detours on my path have shaped who I am today and strengthened my belief that with perseverance, faith, and the right mindset, every obstacle can transform into an opportunity for growth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in capturing authentic, emotional moments through photography, blending the timeless quality of film with the versatility of digital. My passion for photography started when I learned to develop film in a darkroom at 15, a skill that shaped my approach to the craft. I’m known for my documentary-style photography in weddings, branding, portraits and travel, capturing images that not only preserve the moment but also evoke its emotion and essence, often through the interplay of light.
Alongside photography, my writing and poetry are integral to my creative process, further enriching the stories I tell. What sets me apart is my ability to adapt creatively while maintaining a signature style and my focus on connecting deeply with my clients to tell their unique stories. I’m proud of going after my dreams, achieving many of them and building meaningful relationships along the way. Serving people through my art and enjoying the journey has been incredibly fulfilling.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Laguna Beach captivates me with its unique blend of natural beauty and artistic spirit. The city boasts over 30 secluded beaches and coves along its seven-mile coastline, each offering a tranquil escape to connect with nature. The landscape is further enriched by rolling hills creating a picturesque backdrop that feels reminiscent of European coastal towns. This harmonious fusion of mountains meeting the sea, coupled with a vibrant arts community, makes Laguna Beach a truly enchanting place to live and work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.christinacernik.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccernik
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/590rHNKiKUI0QK6PvDhY5G
Image Credits
: Photo of Christina by photographer Liv Shaw. All other photos taken by Christina on 35mm film.
