Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Torrez.
Stephanie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born and raised in CA. I moved to GA when I was a teenager. As a young adult, I was always observant. I wasn’t the most social person in the room, but I liked to be present in what was happening. I have to credit a part of my love for photography to my curiosity of the world and to an aunt of mine. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say she came into this world with a camera attached to her. She by no means was what people would consider a professional, but she was passionate and enthusiastic about it for sure. Back then, we were still living that film camera life. It was a very Forest Gump life moment waiting to see what life’s box of chocolate was going to give us when developing our camera roll. And it wasn’t always the prettiest of images, but it was a moment in time we could look back on and remember. I had always dabbled in the arts but never thought I’d be able to make a career out of it. I even went to an art school for photography, but that was short lived. I had never been one who felt like I belonged in school or any large function really. Some may have assumed I was anti-social or even an introvert and some days they may have been right in those thoughts, but the truth is I was someone who has lived with depression and anxiety a big part of my life. Not always being able to express myself in the healthiest manner, I found comfort in doing so in painting, drawing, dancing, and photography. I think for the longest time I thought about my photography and artwork a little selfishly. I found my art to be very therapeutic but wasn’t ready to be that vulnerable with anyone else. So I stuck to my corporate job and continued to push my photography passion aside. Always knowing that the corporate job wasn’t fulfilling my passion, I would still make time to teach myself new techniques or hope on that good old youtube to better my skills. Occasionally taking some nightlife photography or some event gigs.
After having my son two years ago, I hit a really hard road of postpartum. It brought me back to a very negative place in my life. One I never thought I’d never had to relive. So I knew I had to change things up. I left my job and dedicated my time to my new growing family and bettering myself. At first, I wasn’t sure what bettering myself was going to look like. I mean, I think we all want to be happy in life. That doesn’t always come naturally for me, but my love for photography changed how I saw things. I noticed colors, lights, shapes, people, places in ways some people never see them. So for me diving back into photography has honestly been a healing point for me. I’ve dedicated myself to building my portfolio and clientele, and it’s really starting to pay off for me. I am so fortunate to be able to step into someone’s life, to enter their world, and capture moments that will help their businesses grow or even help them grow as individuals.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I am a freelance photographer in GA. I specialize in lifestyle photography, branding, portraits, families, and events. I take a lot of pride in finding that shot for my clients that either make them proud to be who they are or what they created.
For me, it’s therapeutic and so rewarding. As a photographer, I am privileged to capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. I get to step into someone’s world and capture these moments that mean something to them, and that will continue to mean something to them years or generations down the road.
My love for photography was always present, but my passion for photography grow as I grow through struggles in life. I would say I’m about 90% self-taught and tremendously blessed and grateful for fellow talented friends and family that have shown me, tough love, when I needed it and believed in me when I wasn’t sure I believed in myself.
Any advice for aspiring or new artists?
Don’t be afraid of trying or failing. Educate yourself. That won’t always come in the traditional way. So if school isn’t an option or doesn’t feel right, don’t immediately count yourself out. As cliche as it sounds, you are in control of how much you want to learn. If you are willing to put in that work of seeking knowledge by reading, video’s, workshops, apprenticing you will grow and learn. Also, know the obvious. The photography industry, just like most industries, are oversaturated, and that can be overwhelming for even accomplished professionals. The trick is to learn techniques and not lose yourself. Try your very best not to take things personally. You aren’t going to get every job or client you go after, and that is okay. That doesn’t make you any less of a photographer or a person. And lastly, there is enough work to go around. Don’t worry about what Susan down the road is selling. You are you, and that is unique. So work on yourself and your skill and know that there are fellow entrepreneurs that support you out here!
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Like most people, you can find me and my work online and most social media. I’ve recently got the privilege to work with some larger name companies such as TEAMHFITT at Onelife FITNESS – Holly Springs. So it’s really neat to work with such amazing people there and to see my photos being used. I am always looking to new projects and helping people, business brand themselves. So if people are looking to support or hire, you can reach me by email or my social media outlets.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stephanietorrezphotos.com
- Phone: 678-836-7947
- Email: STORREZPHOTOS@GMAIL.COM
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanietorrez_photos/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanietorrezphotos/
- Other: https://www.honeybook.com/app/community/profile
Image Credit:
Meredith Davis
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
