Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Synan.
Hi Olivia, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was always the friend who wanted to take pictures – no matter the occasion! My Facebook is full of (embarrassing) photos of my middle school days. Thousands of photos edited on PicMonkey are on display for the world to see! There was something so life-giving through the art of photography and photo editing, even if my work wasn’t necessarily the “best”.
Flash-forward a few years to 2018 to my freshman year of college. I was going on a study abroad trip to Europe for two weeks. My boyfriend (who was just my crush at the time) offered me his DSLR to borrow! I know, I know! He really trusted me with that! (I did lose the lens cap, but that’s another story. I promise I replaced it!)
I fell in love with that camera. I took photos, videos, portraits; anything that could be captured on that camera was the perfect subject for me. I loved having memories to look back on and knew I wanted to continue. It wasn’t until the end of 2019 that I finally got my very own camera.
For an entire year, I photographed every friend that would let me. They weren’t the greatest pictures, but they were mine. I took them – and I took pride in them. I officially launched Olivia Synan Photography (now Olivia Synan Co.) in 2021 and now run a successful part-time business that I love!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think having a bumpy start is almost a rite of passage as a business owner! You learn from your mistakes! You pick yourself up and try again. Truthfully, I’m in a bit of a bumpy season right now! COVID-19 still poses its own challenges, as well as changes in the economy! Photography is typically viewed as a luxury, so it can be challenging to find out how to offer a service that isn’t deemed “necessary”. I always try to remember that the photos I capture offer lifelong memories to families, and that is what matters most!
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 specialize in portrait photography! While I love photographing weddings, I find so much joy in portraits. I truly believe every person I have ever photographed has a beautiful story, and there is something incredible about capturing that in a photo that will last forever on living room walls.
What makes you happy?
The short answer? Jesus. My family. My boyfriend. Coffee. Theater. Travel.
I’m constantly surrounded by people who radiate joy and light, and it makes my job worth it. It makes waking up every day worth it.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.oliviasynanco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviasynanco

