Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Martinez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Rebecca. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always had a passion for creating. Growing up, my sisters and I were always encouraged in writing, art, music, and more. My passion for photography started when I went to high school. My mom had an old film camera that I would mess around with and I immediately fell in love. I finally got my first real DSLR in 10th grade and kept upgrading from there. It really became an obsession for me! I wish I could say that it’s been a smooth road and I was able to go straight into my photography business, but it has taken me a long time to get here. I went through a lot of ups and downs with what I wanted to do with my life, and I think most of it stemmed from self-doubt and being afraid to put myself out there. If I could go back and slap my younger self and tell her to “Snap out of it!”, I would! But I have learned so many valuable lessons that I am so grateful for. I think having those ups and downs prepared me for the challenge of starting my own business.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I have had struggles in my journey. I mostly struggled with believing that I was capable of being successful in not only photography but running my own business. I had a lot of doubt if this was the right path since it isn’t easiest or most practical. I had to find and hold onto confidence I don’t always feel. One thing I’d recommend to anyone is to get away from outside opinions. I spent so much time asking others what they thought I should do I forgot to ask myself! Input from family and friends IS valuable, but I think it’s beneficial to go somewhere to be alone with your thoughts, and really ask yourself what you want from your life and if you’re currently getting that fulfillment. Don’t be afraid to take a hard look at yourself, either. What can you improve yourself to make your dreams a reality? And don’t be afraid to learn from others. There’s always going to be someone who’s doing better than you or has the level of success you want. These people are your motivation! Take in as much as you can, even if it’s something you would do differently. I am in no way at the end of my journey, but I’m so grateful for what I’ve learned already. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without the support of my friends and family.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I offer photography for weddings, engagements, and lifestyle! I’m not sure what I am known for. My goal is to make every client feel as comfortable as possible in front of the camera! One of the things I hear the most from clients is that they don’t know what to do in front of the camera, or that they’re not comfortable taking pictures. It fills my heart when someone I’m working with goes from feeling that way to being confident and feeling like a model! I love letting people see themselves in a whole new way. I want to capture people’s stories in my photographs. To me, that means getting someone to be as natural as they can in front of the camera so I can really see their personality. I am always trying to learn new techniques or get new ideas for my photos. I will find inspiration in just about anything! I never want to be “bored” in my work. I want to always keep improving so I can give people the best experience.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
I have NEVER been a planner, but making myself consistently use one has been a game changer! I also try to brainstorm and write down ideas as much as possible. I love listening to D’arcy Benincosa’s podcasts and classes. She focuses on women entrepreneurs and how to become the best version of yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: rebeccachristinephotography.com
- Email: rebeccachristinephotos@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/rebeccachristinemartinez
- Facebook: facebook.com/rchristinephotography
Image Credit:
Rebecca Christine Photography
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