Today we’d like to introduce you to Priscilla Lewis-Gomez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Priscilla. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
It all started with a little digital camera and selfies before selfies were ever a thing. I enjoyed taking pictures of my friends and editing photos. Editing was nothing close to photoshop and Lightroom. Don’t even remember what the program was called but had the coolest effects and I loved seeing the images enhanced. It all started around the time I graduated high school and began college in 2005. I went through MANY digital cameras. They weren’t able to keep up with my friends and me back then! I guess you can say it was all for fun. Never did I imagine having a photography business down the road.
I had family and friends mention to me that they saw potential and talent. One day I was gifted a Canon SLR camera… It was HUGE and had many buttons that I wasn’t used to from those tiny digitals cameras. I was intrigued by all the settings, I wanted to learn more! It finally hit me…Why not?? Why not look into starting this professionally?? In 2011 I began working with a professional photographer and learned the ins and outs of the business — not just the technical aspects of photography but how to carry a brand and company. I will be forever grateful for the experience. I was exposed to a world of creatives and I soaked it all in. The more I went out there to shoot and capture and create, the more I wanted to grow and learn.
In 2014, I decided to part ways and started my own business. It was terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time. I went to Conventions, Workshops, took photoshop classes and acquired all I could, even from Youtube…especially Youtube!! I ran forward and never looked back. Now it is 2020, and still going. 🙂
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Overall it’s been a smooth road. But of course, most roads have their surprise potholes here and there. My potholes came mainly from within myself. Self doubt, fear, questioning everything I did/do, asking myself over and over again, “Am I capable? Am I good enough? What makes me different from all the others?”… In 2016 I became a mom. Best. Day Ever. This was not an obstacle, but definitely a challenge for my business. I imagined that becoming a mother was not going to stop me, but just slow me down a bit. I dealt with post part depression for quite awhile and not only was my business affected, it really consumed my life. I never believed it would hit me, and it’s a topic that is not spoken enough about. I felt ashamed and alone thinking I was the only one feeling this way. Thankfully, I have a solid support system and I got the help I needed to overcome it. I learned more about myself and the strength I carry. Although my business was placed in the back seat for a period, I needed to work on myself to be better and present in all parts of my life: Mom, Wife, Daughter, Friend, Business owner and overall HUMAN. Putting myself first felt selfish, but it was the best selfish decision I ever made! I definitely learned quickly that we MUST work on ourselves first. And through it all, I have TRULY been enjoying raising my son and running a business all from home. As every year passes I put more and more time into Pure Zeal Photography, and it feels just right.
Pure Zeal Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Pure Zeal Photography specializes in weddings & portraits, right now. I say “right now” because we change and grow as humans, as well as our work and craft. When I shoot weddings, I have a team. Two photographers & an assistant. My Second shooter is my husband most of the time. I’d say we make a pretty good team : ) Pure Zeal is about capturing moments, and all those feels. Creating & connecting to ultimately make magic!
The question “What sets you apart from others?”…I am still trying to figure out HAHA. The truth is, it is tough to set yourself apart when there are SO many others doing the same thing as you. The ONLY way to set your self apart is by always staying true to yourself. Sounds cliché, but its the truth! So with that said, being as real and honest is what sets me apart. It’s just me and my camera, wanting to capture you and your story. And that is what I am most proud of in my business, the authenticity carried out throughout the years.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Reaching true happiness. Loving what you do. Loving yourself. Feeding your soul. Creating a loving and warm space. Connecting with others and helping each other move forward together. That’s success to me.
Its also not a place to reach a final destination. It’s a constant journey. My business is successful because I have learned to welcome change and growth. I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with clients who genuinely care for me and my work. Makes “going to work” that much sweeter!
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.purezealphotography.com
- Email: purezealphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purezealphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purezealphotography/
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