Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariela Bastidas.
Mariela, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started photography back in 2022. Photography was always in the back of my mind but I was always “too busy” to learn about it. It wasn’t until Covid I started thinking I wanted to do something different and wanted to learn something I’ve always wanted. So in January 2022, I joined a photography course as a hobby. And what started as a hobby, turned out something I started feeling very passionate about. So I decided I wanted to make a career out of it.
I kept going… I started photographing my friends and organizing photo shoots to build my portfolio while also investing in other education programs. I believe education is key to great success so even at this moment I keep investing in education. I also started attending networking events where I can find my potential clients and start establishing relationships. You never know when in the future they may need photography services.
Many people think photography is just taking good pictures but there is a whole process behind it. I want to make sure I deliver my clients the best photography experience from onboarding, pre-production, actual photoshoot day, and post-production. It has definitely been a journey but I have enjoyed every single moment and I know I still can grow so much.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but I have enjoyed the ups and downs for sure. I strongly believe that we should enjoy the journey more than the destination. When you start something new, you have to figure out so many things. For me, my main struggle was finding clients that truly appreciate my work. So I continuously evaluate myself to see what can I do better and pivot if something is not working. It is important to step back and think about how can I improve to get where I want to be.
But also acknowledging what I have accomplished so far. When I look back, I wasn’t where I am today and I know in the future I also won’t be where I am today. Photography is not only knowing the technical side of it but also having a business mindset of growing and learning along the way. Another struggle was to understand the business side of it. I’ve learned and continuously keep learning how to manage my photography business more efficiently and always think about what is best for my clients.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I enjoy lifestyle brand photography for coastal brands and local women-owned businesses. I love to capture candid and authentic moments that represent each brand. I love capturing vibrant and colorful images with natural light in the outdoors and use nature and city landscapes as my backdrop.
I also enjoy studio photo sessions but using props that represent the uniqueness of each brand. I believe what sets me apart is that I love to provide excellent customer service to my clients and make them feel comfortable while they are being photographed while also capturing high-quality images that tell their brand story.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting?
It may sound too cliche but my advice is to not give up even when things get a bit hard. I truly believe that if you keep trying, while others give up, you increase the chances of success. There will be many rejections and setbacks along the way but you have to trust in the process and keep pushing through to achieve your goals.
Another thing I wish I knew is how important is to be part of a community of fellow photographers. As photographers, we have to support and help each other. It is so important to connect with other photographers and learn from them as well. Finally, my other advice is to invest in education. If you truly want to get your photography business to another level, education is key. Not only to learn the technical side of it but the business side as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marielaaphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marielaa.photography/
Image Credits
Main Photo: SarahMae Photography
