Carolina Lopez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Carolina, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Being in the ocean, whether I’m snorkeling or paddle boarding, the hours feel like minutes and next thing you know the sun is setting and I haven’t been bold enough to snorkel at night but man it just brings out this inner child in me that I can’t put into words. It’s kind of like the little mermaid part 2, when Ariel’s daughter longed to be apart of the sea not knowing her mother that was apart of it for so long, actually longed for humanity. It’s such a beautiful story with depth and perspective and I feel that every time I’m in the ocean. Want to be apart of it hahah
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Carolina but everyone calls me C.Lo (like JLo but with a C)
I came up with the nickname because I would get so upset when anyone pronounced my name wrong. They always called me Caroline or just a name that wasn’t mine or pronounced it like the state but being born in Colombia, I want it to be pronounced the Spanish way so I just got tired of correcting people and came up with something easier to say.
My story is quite long but one thing I know for a fact is that I was made to be a photographer. I’ve always adored taking photos, making memories and just seeing the beauty in things and I wanted to make sure others got the opportunity to make their history as well. Think about it. Everything we know about history that currently exists is based on words and imagery. Its history in the making. One day in 100 years people can use my photos for their versions of our history and for generations to come after. All because of a photograph. Life is also so unpredictable and short. You never know when’s the last time you’ll see someone until all you have left is photos. There’s a quote that I’ve recently learned and absolutely encapsulated me.
“Ars Longa Vita Brevis” meaning Art is long, life is short. It’s in Latin, I believe it’s an Hippocrates quote. I couldn’t agree more.
I never got to niche down because I genuinely love story telling and stories consist of chapters. Our life chapters being falling in love, getting engaged, getting married, having babies & growing families. I can’t just do weddings, or just maternity. I want to capture your unfolding story not just one chapter of it. In whatever order it comes.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. They came to this country with lives already created. They went to school, got degrees, graduated, got married, had me and then in a blink of an eye in their mid 30’s they had to start completely over when I became ill with cancer.
I watched them go to work in supermarkets, cleaning houses, delivering food, doing whatever it took to pay off the debt that was thrown to them from my medical expenses on top of having to start over in getting us a home and a vehicle. They taught me hustle. They are the prime example of the American Dream and that although it may be hard, it’s not impossible to make a life. I grew up being in an unsafe apartment complex to a nicer townhome to now the home we own and have worked so incredibly hard for. They showed me that and I can’t make excuses because they never did.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
When I finally decided to let go of pride and reach out to a professional who then diagnosed me with PTSD. I was placed on medication that didn’t alter my state or personality, but simply allowed my brain to naturally produce Serotonin, the chemical responsible for mood, appetite & sleep. Something my brain stopped producing who knows how long ago. I’ve lived life in survival mode for many years after lots of trauma in my early childhood & adolescence. I can finally proudly say I’m present and living in the moment, not just surviving.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends, I don’t have a ton but the few I do mean the absolute world to me.
I would honestly love to hear their point of view but from what they have told me is that I’m someone that they can always count on, one call or text and I’m on my way. No questions asked. I provide a sense of peace & clarity during stressful moments & most importantly a woman of my word. My word means a lot to me so if I say I’m going to do something, I mean it and I will do it. No matter what. I give my 100% to my friends and they know it.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
That animals are not our enemy, our entertainment, a tool or a supply. They are living creatures that have to survive everyday just to coexist with humanity.
People love to talk about the dangers of certain creatures but they don’t know that humanity is the most dangerous animal of them all. Huge animal lover. I wanted a career in Zoology but my path went a different direction. My love for them has never faded and I intend to make a financial impact in the animal community as my business continues to grow. If I was a billionaire, it wouldn’t be for long. I’d make sure to make good use of my privilege if I ever were to have it. Too much needs to be done that the rich are not doing now.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.capturedbyclo.com
- Instagram: @capturedbyc.lo
Image Credits
Captured by CLo
