We were lucky to catch up with Jennifer Cortiella recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Jennifer with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
Picture this: a young me, eyes wide with admiration, watching my parents transform grease and gears into a thriving forklift mechanics business. Their dedication wasn’t just to the machines but to each person they served—proving that integrity, a firm handshake, and going the extra mile aren’t just old-fashioned ideals but the backbone of any successful venture. It’s there, amid the hum of engines and clatter of tools, that my values were forged. Drawing from their example and blending it with my drive, I’ve built my photography business on the same principles: kindness, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Incorporating these lessons, I’ve woven a tapestry of my values with threads from their example. Today, my photography business is a testament to what they taught me: to be kind and grateful and honor my commitments to my clients with the same fervor. These principles guide me, whether ensuring I follow through on every detail, relentlessly refining my craft, or embracing challenges with a “can do” attitude. Take, for example, the moment during a wedding shoot when unpredictable weather tried to dampen our spirits. Instead of succumbing to frustration, I leaned into my “do it right” habit, quickly adapting our plan without sacrificing the joy and spontaneity of the day. My “can do” attitude was fueled by focus and persistence, ensuring no candid moment was missed. These are more than just values; they’re a way of life—a promise to my clients and a homage to the legacy I’ve been handed down.
Thanks, so before we move on, maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Immersed in the vibrant heart of Miami, FL, my journey as a full-time wedding photographer has unfolded for nine captivating years. At Cortiella Photography, we’re not just about taking pictures; we’re about capturing the essence of genuine, candid moments and weaving them into a luxury wedding photography experience as unique as the love stories we tell. Our doors are open to everyone—celebrating the diversity of love in all its forms, making us a perfect match for couples, luxury aficionados, and pet lovers alike. What sets us apart? Our unwavering commitment is to capture and create memories that spark the same emotions and joy whenever you revisit them. With a passion for storytelling and an eye for immortalizing fleeting moments, I am dedicated to crafting lasting visual legacies that encapsulate love’s purest expressions at Cortiella Photography. But my passion doesn’t stop at the click of the shutter. I believe in giving back, in spreading light and love far beyond the viewfinder. That’s why I founded a non-profit called The Magic Hour Foundation. Our mission? To offer free professional photography services to families battling cancer and cancer pets in loving memory of my beloved dog, Zoey, who lost the fight against cancer in March of 2024. Every story deserves to be told, especially during the times when hope and beauty shine the brightest amidst challenges. I do this because I believe in the power of a moment, the strength it holds, and the joy it can bring, even in the darkest times. This is more than photography—it’s about creating a legacy of love, resilience, and hope.
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?
Three pivotal elements stand out: empathy, adaptability, and technical mastery. Empathy allows us to see the world through our clients’ eyes, understanding their deepest desires for their special day. It’s about connecting personally, ensuring every click of the shutter captures a deeply cherished moment. Adaptability is key in the unpredictable world of weddings. Whether it’s changing light, unexpected weather, or the ebbs and flows of emotions, pivoting gracefully ensures that we capture the magic, no matter the circumstances. Technical mastery, the art and science behind photography, transforms a passion into a profession. It’s about understanding your tools and techniques so profoundly that they become extensions of your creative vision. For those embarking on this beautiful journey, immerse yourself in learning the technical aspects and understanding the human heart. Connect with mentors and peers, remain curious, and remember that each photograph you take reflects your unique perspective and an opportunity to touch lives deeply.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents instilled in me the value of never giving up and the importance of hard work, discipline, and consistency. These lessons have become the cornerstone of who I am today. I remembered reading this quote “Without commitment, you’ll never start. But more importantly, without consistency, you’ll never finish.” -Denzel Washington.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cortiellaphotography.com and www.themagichourfoundation.org
- Instagram: @cortiellaphotography and @themagichourfoundation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cortiellaphotography
- Other: Non- Profit The Magic Hour Foundation Website: www.themagichourfoundation.org
Instagram: @themagichourfoundation
