We were lucky to catch up with Holly Pellerito recently and have shared our conversation below.
Holly , we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
When I was younger around 8, I was first diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder. I am 31 now. There has been a lot of downs, a lot of days I wanted to give up and call it quits. The mind can be an extremely dark place and there is a lot of times that can be hard to come out of. I went through a lot of doctors, and a lot of med changes. I used to be so ashamed of having these problems and fearing I was alone and no one outside of my family, who also sometimes didn’t understand. As I have gotten older and gained more insight. I have accepted that my mental health issues are apart of who I am, but they do not define me. I talk to a therapist regularly, I am on medication to regulate, and I meditate a lot. I create to express the things that feel deep. Finding an outlet for myself has made a huge impact. I didn’t give up because, I wanted to offer people the things I didn’t have. I want to give people a space to talk, to create their emotions how they need to, and to let others know they are not alone. They don’t need to be ashamed.
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?
Hello! I am a photographer. Even as a kid I had a camera in my hand. I was always posing for photos and making silly faces. I realized I wanted to capture as many moments as I could. I got my first start taking a photography class in school, and then doing photography for the school yearbook! I proceed to go to college to get a degree in photography.
I knew I didn’t do well being in one spot so, I wouldn’t do well in a desk job or somewhere that I wasn’t allowed creative freedom. I wanted to be able to capture memories because, often time it is all we have left.
I focus on a couple things specifically – I do concerts, and portraiture! I have recently started offering something that feels incredibly close to the heart. Last moment photoshoots with animals. I have 5 cats and have had dogs in the past. There was times I wish I had this opportunity to have those last days captured so I could look back. I want to offer that small amount of comfort for anyone who is dealing with that situation as well.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
One of the most important things I learned along the way was that there is no wrong way to art. While the basics of photography are important, there is not one specific way to shoot. Your style doesn’t need to be everyone else’s. You don’t have to follow the trends if you don’t want to! Dedication, compassion, and understanding. Each set, each photo, each moment is important. Give your fullest to each new story. Listen when someone shares and tells you what they need. Be sure to ask questions to make sure you and your client are on the same page.
Know your craft. Know your equipment. Know how to work in different settings because while it may be a similar situation, no single one is the same!
If I could offer one piece of advice for people just starting out, it would be to be patient with yourself. There is always something new to learn and it can feel overwhelming. But, you will hone in on your skills and your style that fits you. You’ll create your own brand and remember to always enjoy what you do.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
One of the most helpful peeople in my life has been my personal trainer, Brian. There is a lot of discipline in working out that isn’t just physical. I have learned to believe in myself, to stick to my goals, to be dedicated in all aspects of my life. He has led me to stay steadfast in my dreams. To keep pushing even on the days I feel like giving up. Life and progress is not linear and as someone who dealt with needing EVERYTHING perfect, I have learned that things will not always go as I planned but, that does not mean I have to stop. It just means I find a new path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://raggedededgesphotography.com/
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/raggededgesphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/raggededgesphotography
