Meet Matt Mathurin

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Matt Mathurin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Matt, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Honestly, I don’t think you can ever overcome imposter syndrome. As a photographer, you are constantly refining your craft, always looking for perfection because you want to deliver your best work every single time. And as a creative, you are evolving in a very competitive environment. There is always something that will make you doubt yourself.

On the other hand there will always be people that will make you feel like you are truly amazing at what you’re doing. With every new project that I’m tackling I’m learning to work through imposter syndrome because it’s ok to question yourself from time to time. What really helps me shift is focusing less on trying to be the best and more on being real. When I see how my work impacts clients—how it helps them feel confident, seen, and proud to show up as themselves, I know, then, that it’s about authenticity, connection, and growth.

That mindset grounded me and gave me the confidence to stop questioning if I was “enough,” and just do the work with purpose.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a portrait and branding photographer based in Tampa and the proud owner of Lakay Motion Photography. My mission is to help business owners, entrepreneurs, influencers, brands and people in general show up with real confidence through authentic imagery.

My craft is focused on capturing the true story behind a brand or an individual—not staged poses or generic smiles, but moments that reveal who they truly are and what they stand for. I always tell my clients “Please, don’t mind me. Just be YOU.” That kind of authenticity builds trust and drives meaningful growth. People love seeing people as they are and how they can relate to them.

Lately, I’ve shifted my style to include immersive brand storytelling sessions and creative photoshoots; I love spending time with my clients to learn what drives them, what they dream of, what is their dearest purpose. It’s easy to identify myself with them because we are all the same. Before I accept a project, I ask them to share their expectations, and I won’t take “I just want beautiful pictures” as an answer. A great photographer takes great photos, but a real photographer captures memories. I let my clients be the creative director of the project and act as a guide for them.

For those who are serious about standing out in a crowded market, it starts with embracing your story fully and authentically. And you can be sure that I will capture powerful visuals that command attention and resonate deeply, this combination creates a compelling presence that captures and holds attention.

Delivering this is my commitment and what I bring to every client.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

There are countless qualities and skills that evolve with time and experience, but if I had to narrow it down to the three that matter most to me, they’d be: Consistency, Optimism, and Adaptability.

Consistency
Showing up, especially when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain, is Photography 101. Progress doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. It comes from putting in the work, day after day. Don’t tell yourself you’ll start tomorrow or “once you get that new lens.” Start now. Keep going, even when motivation runs dry. Momentum is always stronger than motivation. If you’re just starting, pick up whatever camera you have and get out there. Make. Mistakes. Learn. Repeat.

Optimism
Optimism is my fuel, especially when the path forward isn’t clear. I tend to overthink even the simplest things, but deep down, I always know it’s going to work out. That belief has kept me going more times than I can count. Celebrate the small wins. Focus on what you can control. A positive mindset isn’t blind; it’s strategic. It helps you push through resistance and keep your eyes on the bigger picture.

Adaptability
The photography industry moves fast. Trends shift, tech evolves, and algorithms rewrite the rules overnight. The only way to stay sharp is to stay curious. That means committing to daily growth: reading articles, watching tutorials, listening to podcasts, experimenting, and asking for feedback. Whether you’re learning new editing techniques or rethinking your marketing strategy, growth depends on your ability to adapt to uncomfortable situations. Never stop evolving.

None of these happen overnight. They’re built slowly, consistently, through baby steps. But when you invest in them, the rest tends to fall into place.

How would you describe your ideal client?

Since I’m a portrait and branding photographer based in Tampa, my ideal client is a business owner, entrepreneur, an influencer or any individual who’s deeply passionate about what they do and ready to show up with authenticity. They’re not just looking for “pretty pictures”, they want imagery that tell their story, reflect their values, and help them build real and trustworthy connection with their audience.

They value collaboration, understand the power of strong visual branding, and are committed to growth. They don’t need to have it all figured out (it’s my job to fill in the gaps), they just need to be open, curious, and willing to invest in themselves and their vision.

In short, they’re the kind of person who knows that showing up as their true self is their greatest competitive edge.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

IG handles for the images:

1: @itschvpo
2: @makaya_care_transportation
3: @yariitwiststylez
4: @flywithaviatormark
5: @bluesette_al3xis
6: @harmony_care_at_home

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