Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Rios
Hi Claudia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started as a leap of faith—leaving behind a steady 9-to-5 paycheck to fully immerse myself in the world of photography, which I had been pursuing part-time and as a second shooter for other wedding photographers in the area. Once I committed to working around the clock to build and refine my skills, my business began to grow in ways I hadn’t expected. The hard work opened doors to new photography opportunities, from weddings to small business branding, allowing me to expand my offerings and connect with clients in more meaningful ways. This journey has been both challenging and deeply rewarding as I continue to shape Claudia Amalia Photography into a trusted name for capturing life’s most cherished moments.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like all good things in life, challenges have been incredible opportunities for learning and growth. One challenge I’m particularly proud of overcoming is learning how to ‘see’ light. As photographers, we have to train ourselves to view scenes differently than the naked eye, and mastering light is a major part of that. I’ve had to learn how to create light in situations where there may be none, and now, I feel comfortable playing with both natural and artificial light to bring my vision to life.
Another challenge, and one I think many business owners face, is knowing when to step away. It’s easy to get caught up in the endless to-do list, and finding a balance between work and personal time has been a journey in itself. But each of these struggles has helped shape the business—and me—into something stronger.”
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m proud that God has given me the opportunity to see the beauty in people through my lens. It may sound a bit cheesy, but as a photographer, I see people in ways they might not have seen themselves. With the right light, backdrop, and gentle guidance in posing, I can bring out something extraordinary in them. That’s why I love working with business owners, too; many of them work so hard that they rarely take the time to capture a professional photo. Helping them see their best, authentic selves is incredibly rewarding for me.
In my wedding work, I dive deep into each couple’s unique vision for their day. Once I understand it, I’ll ask questions to bring to light the details they might not even realize they want captured. My goal is to tell the story of their day as they envisioned it, creating a ‘vibe’ they’ll remember forever. Couples often tell me I make them feel comfortable in front of the camera and that I’m fully invested in their day. And I truly am—I want them to look back on each photo and feel the same love and joy they experienced in the moment.
What sets me apart is my genuine care for my clients and my dedication to honoring what matters most to them. I’m also incredibly grateful to have built my business through the amazing clients God has brought my way; they have allowed me to grow Claudia Amalia Photography into what it is today.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
My mother always said, ‘Do your best in whatever you do. Don’t just go halfway.’ This mantra has become an integral part of who I am. I believe in giving it my all or not at all. Even when I feel like giving up, I rely on my faith to push through, and the end results have always been rewarding.
Reflecting on my journey, I often ask myself, ‘Why quit without knowing what’s on the other side?’ Hard work truly pays off, even if it goes unnoticed or unacknowledged by others. I’ve learned that perseverance and dedication are crucial to my success, and I strive to embody these values in everything I do.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.claudiaamaliaphotography.com
- Instagram: claudiaamaliaphotography
- Facebook: claudiaamaliaphotography
Image Credits
Credit images to my amazing friend: Maria Cordova Photography
