We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Valeria Ortega a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Valeria, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Dealing with imposter syndrome can be quite daunting, especially when you’re running your own business. It fuels self-doubt, making you question your capabilities. I’ve certainly dealt with it numerous times, particularly during the early stages of my business journey. Although I still encounter it occasionally, its grip on me has lessened over time.
The trick that has helped me overcome imposter syndrome is immersing myself in a community of like-minded individuals. What I mean by this is surrounding myself with people who understand the struggles of operating a business. Fortunately, I created a photography club right here in Austin. Now with around 2,000 members, this community has become a haven of support and mutual learning.
Throughout the past couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by esteemed photographers, engaging closely with fellow creatives, and engaging in countless conversations with these individuals. It’s comforting to understand that imposter syndrome is a common journey for all of us at some stage. The crucial lesson I’ve gained from this group is that…our uniqueness shines through – from our editing styles to our personalities. Each of us has a distinct place in the market, so comparing ourselves to each other is unnecessary.
How I tackled imposter syndrome:
1. Established a network of photographers who uplift and encourage me.
2. Let go of the habit of comparing myself to others.
3. Developed a distinctive style and business branding that aligns with my personality.
4. Embraced constructive criticism, using it as a tool for growth and enhancement.
5. Took to heart the positive feedback from my clients, using it to reaffirm my value.
Remember, imposter syndrome is a hurdle we can overcome with the right mindset and support network.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Hey there! I’m a passionate couples and portrait photographer based in the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas. What truly sets my work apart and keeps me buzzing with excitement is the opportunity to freeze those cherished moments brimming with love and genuine emotion. Whether it’s the infectious laughter of a couple in love or the heartfelt connection between family members, I’m all about capturing these authentic instances that resonate for a lifetime.
But there’s more to my journey than just snapping incredible photos. I take immense joy in supporting individuals who are looking for that perfect snapshot to elevate their small businesses. It’s incredibly rewarding to help these ambitious entrepreneurs showcase their products and services through visually captivating imagery. And hey, let’s not forget the fun part – I’ve also had a blast assisting guys in creating dating profile photos that truly stand out. Watching those “likes” pile up is a satisfying reward!
As for what’s on the horizon, stay tuned for some exciting updates. I’m constantly exploring new avenues to add a touch of creativity and artistry to my photography, ensuring that every shot is a unique masterpiece.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Firstly, my previous experience in the hospitality industry has been priceless. Customer service is a foundation of any business, and my background in hospitality taught me the importance of building strong relationships with clients, which has significantly contributed to the growth of my own business.
Secondly, my passion for creativity has played a pivotal role. It has allowed me to infuse a unique and artistic perspective into my photography work, setting it apart and making it more compelling.
Lastly, the influence of my father, who is a successful business owner himself, has been a profound source of inspiration. His journey, starting with just $20 when he arrived in the USA and building his own company from scratch, has shown me the value of hard work, determination, and the potential for success through entrepreneurship. His example has been a guiding light, and I aspire to achieve a similar level of success one day.
I believe that anyone can use their strongest qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge to build something beautiful. Everyone starts somewhere- but recognizing their abilities is a great. start!
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone with an adventurous spirit who approaches life with a sense of spontaneity and a willingness to embrace the extraordinary. They don’t take themselves too seriously and find joy in being silly. They’re open to new experiences and are unafraid to express their emotions. In essence, my ideal client is a free spirit, ready to create unique and memorable moments together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sparkofwander.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/sparkofwanderphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/sparkofwanderphotography
