Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Cordova.
Maria, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always been very passionate about photography, and it’s always held such a special place in my heart. My mother brought us to Miami from Bolivia at a very young age to give us the American dream. We communicated with our families through photographs and videos and still do today, even though we now have Facetime. When we would visit in the summer, they would try to document EVERY moment. As a kid, I wasn’t always happy about being in the pictures, but I loved taking them! Growing up, I must say the distance was very difficult for me; the photographs would transport me in a way I simply felt present. Feeling this way about photography has molded my business to what it is today and what I strive to deliver. I want to photograph with intention. I want to document those special milestones in people’s lives and allow them and their future generations to transport themselves to that very special moment they are witnessing.
I’ll start by saying my very first camera was a Polaroid Camera; I absolutely loved it. From there, I took a black and white film class in middle school and went on to take some classes in college. I still take many online classes as well as workshops; there is always room to learn new skills and techniques. My business continues to grow because of my faith and the constant support I have from those that surround me. My husband has believed in my talent from day one and has invested 100% in my business. My family and friends have been by my side through all the ups and downs; entrepreneur life needs all the support you can get! Last but not least, I wouldn’t be pushing forward if it wasn’t for the amazing creatives we have in our community. I have been blessed to work alongside some amazing photographers who have treated me as a friend and given me a wealth of knowledge!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Smooth road, what is that? LOL, I would have to say there has been smooth roads with a few bumps and turns along the way. The ride has been worth it, and I haven’t arrived at my destination just yet. I think in any business you have your ups and downs financially and emotionally. Knowing when to invest in equipment is very important because photography equipment is not cheap! I also think educating yourself and learning from others has been key. However, what I have learned is that there are many different components to owning a business and I do not know it all. Therefore, I would recommend you seek help or outsource with trusted professionals when needed.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Maria Cordova Photography story. Tell us more about the business.
I specialize in Lifestyle and Wedding Photography. I love my lifestyle sessions because I create bonds with the families I photograph. Whether I am capturing a mom waiting for her sweet angel’s arrival, a baby’s birth, a family reunion, or a graduation I am all over documenting all of it and creating everlasting memories. I am crazy in love with capturing Intimate Weddings and love stories period! I am an absolute hopeless romantic who isn’t afraid to love. I enjoy reading my couples unique stories about how they met, got engaged, or what they love most about one another. I am totally that girl that loves watching engagement videos (I cry a little too)! It makes me feel like I am in their own little movie. I am currently most proud of a Destination Wedding I shot in Cabo San Lucas. I actually had a destination wedding with my husband and dreamed of photographing a wedding of my own one day; it was truly an answered prayer. What sets me apart from others is simply who I am, “Maria Cordova.” I will be honest and say there are many talented photographers in our industry, what is important is that you find a photographer who you can instantly connect, trust, and feel comfortable. That is my ultimate goal.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Hmm, I don’t know if I believe too much in luck, even though I have won gift cards in raffles and my husband claims I am lucky! I believe in miracles and blessings. I think life is full of experiences that mold us to be wiser and stronger. If you have a good heart and do good nothing is impossible!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mariacordovaphotography.com
- Email: hello@mariacordovaphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/maria_cordovaphotography
Image Credit:
Maria Cordova Photography
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