We’re looking forward to introducing you to Larissa Magana. Check out our conversation below.
Larissa, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day consists of me tossing and turning in bed for a few extra minutes of sleep.
Once I’m up coffee is the first thing on my mind. I like to get into the work mind set in the morning by answering inquiries, texts and dms from clients. This can be a time consuming part of the job but an easy way to get going without to much effort.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Larissa Magana, owner of Larissa Magana Photography LLC. I am a full time photographer. I specialize in couple photography and weddings. However, I do almost any and all portrait photography.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I don’t think there’s just one person or answer to this question.
I would say my clients. By clients I mean the first ones. The clients who trusted that 16 year old high school girl with her first mirrorless camera. Those clients saw me and my potential.
Some of those clients are still in my life today and I can never thank them enough.
I would also have to say my professors at the university of North Georgia. They truly inspired me and encouraged me to continue with my photography career. One of my professors even gave me the opportunity to capture his wedding day. That what a moment I will never forget and I finally felt seen as a professional.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. Yes and yes. Many times.
There’s been a lot of moments where bookings have dwindled. Moments when I felt burnt out, exhausted and unmotivated.
The pandemic was one of the most memorable moments when I wanted to give. I was still in college and my business was finally picking up when we went into quarantine. I didn’t think my business would survive. I was already thinking of what else I could do with my art degree.
However, If I’ve learned anything from these moments is that it only gets better. I truly believe we have to hit rock bottom sometimes so we can come back stronger. It sounds cheesy but it couldn’t be more true.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I believe they would say my family. I am a huge family person and prioritize time with them over anything else. They are my world. I was blessed to have a lot of siblings and we are all very very close.
My parents are extremely loving and have raised us to be very tight knit.
Even in the business sense I prioritize them. I always try to leave a least one weekend a month free to spend time with them. If I need a second shooter for an event my sisters are my go too. Although, they are not professional photographers, but they were willing to learn enough from me so they could help me.
My dad is my go to for props. He is a super handy man and helps my ideas come to life. My mom and the rest of my siblings are my biggest cheerleaders. They just mean the world to me and motivate me to work hard.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
That I went for it and followed my dream. That I actually took a shot at a career that wasn’t promised.
I chose the path least followed and it paid off. I don’t have to live with the “what if’s” and ” I should have” because I did it.
Contact Info:
- Website: larimagana@gmail.com
- Instagram: @larissamphoto
