We were lucky to catch up with Elina Helmick recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elina , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I would say my parents. When we immigrated to the United States they faced so much hardship and watching them persevere through the toughest times allowed me to show up no matter how hard the challenges were that I faced. They worked hard despite language barriers and adversity. They worked multiple jobs to be able provide for us as a family and once they got their stability they helped many other families that needed guidance and help in the beginning of their immigration journey. Growing up I always saw my parents working hard to accomplish their goals. It was so difficult to experience but it taught me the value of work and purpose can bring so much into your life.
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?
I absolutely love creating art with super amazing, kind, loving and genuine people.
Getting to be a small part of a day that is encompassed by pure love and excitement truly fulfills my passion for creating capturing and delivering incredible experiences for my couples. These slivers of moments turn into family legacies and special heirlooms and it’s so exiting to be a part of all that and having the memories last long after a wedding day.
I’ve been capturing weddings since 2019 but just last year decided to launch my photography business and I so look forward to being a storyteller of these precious, exciting and amazing days for years to come! Find me at Linaraephotography.com.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Optimism, kindness and authenticity. I feel that my optimism in life has served me well. There have been times in my life where I’ve struggled and allowed negativity into my life; but I found that meditating and practicing reframing my thoughts has greatly helped me find the positive in many situations.
Kindness is very important to me. I feel that we don’t know what others are going through and it’s important to be kind, I remember myself as I was going through the motions when my father passed away it was so much harder when others were not kind verses interacting with others that led with kindness. I appreciated and still hold in high regard those that treated me with kindness and I vow to do the same; lead my life with a kind heart.
Authenticity is also something that I hold closely to my heart, I think that if you’re authentic in how you live your life you’re fully living and allowing yourself to be you and that allows those you align with to find you easier and in turn live a life that is authentic to you.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal clients are laid back and exude kindness, they find fulfillment in inspiring and educating others. They greatly value the photography experience of feeling welcome to be their authentic selves. My clients value travel and experiences. Maybe they love to go to retreats that offer wellness and holistic to relaxation.They appreciate and respect nature.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linaraephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linaraephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566485034012
Image Credits
Lina Rae Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.