Meet Marielle Stobie

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

Marielle, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I’m someone who has never quite felt like I fully fit in anywhere. Over time, I’ve learned that when I find myself as the “only one in the room,” I have two choices:

I can shrink, feel like an outsider, and make myself small to avoid standing out.
Or I can recognize that I’m in that room for a reason.
Whether it’s because someone saw value in what I bring to the table or because life has put me there to learn, grow, and contribute, I’ve chosen to embrace the latter. This mindset shift has opened doors and revealed opportunities where I would have otherwise only seen obstacles or exclusion.

That said, there’s also a third perspective I’ve learned to recognize: Sometimes you feel like you’re in the wrong room because you are. And that’s okay, too—it’s a chance to reevaluate, redirect, and find spaces where you can truly thrive.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m a full-time photographer and business owner based in Los Angeles. My work centers on headshot and branding portrait photography, which I shoot from Topanga Canyon and downtown LA. I love helping individuals—especially creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals—present themselves authentically and powerfully through artistic images. There’s something incredibly rewarding about capturing someone’s nature and essence in a way that allows them to stand out and connect with their audience.

What excites me most about my work is the transformation that happens during a session. Many clients come in feeling nervous or unsure, but by the end, I’m told they leave feeling seen, cared for, and proud of how they look. Photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about building trust, boosting self-esteem, and helping people tell their stories visually.

What’s next for me: I’m currently focused on expanding my brand and growing my client base during a time when the industry has been facing unique challenges. I’m also exploring ways to make photography more accessible by offering tailored packages and a second location in Topanga Canyon.

At its heart, my business is about connection—connecting people to their purpose, their audience, and their perception of self. I’m excited to continue building this work and exploring my capabilities as an artist.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are adaptability, building genuine relationships, and perseverance.

As a photographer and business owner, I’ve had to navigate personal needs, technical problems, client needs and unpredictable market challenges. Being able to pivot—whether it’s refining my services, exploring new revenue streams, or improving my technical skills—has been critical. My advice for those starting out is to embrace change rather than fear it. If it scares you, shine a light on it. Learn to see obstacles as opportunities to grow, not as reflections of your value.

Success in my field is not just about skill—it’s about trust. The best work happens when clients feel comfortable and heard. Early on, I focused on building meaningful connections with client and peers. For those starting their journey, I recommend prioritizing relationships over quick wins. Be generous with your time, speak authentically, and focus on how you can serve others within your boundaries. At the end of the day, people will always remember how you made them feel.

Building a creative business is a marathon, not a sprint. There are slow seasons, failed ideas, and moments of doubt. What kept me going was remembering why I started: to create work that inspires confidence and connection. My advice? Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins, learn from mistakes, and remind yourself that success comes from consistency over time. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and keep your vision alive.

Ultimately, I believe these three qualities are not innate; they’re developed through practice, humility, and a willingness to keep going. If you’re early in your journey, lean into learning, be patient with yourself, and stay committed to your “why.”

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

Half of what I know about lighting and studio photography came from YouTube—the rest came from hands-on experience: doing the work, making mistakes, and learning through failure. Online tutorials provided the technical foundation, but curiosity and tenacity allowed me to refine that knowledge in real-world scenarios. Failure isn’t something to avoid; it’s a necessary step toward mastery.

At the same time, having a trusted co-conspirator—someone who provides honest, judgment-free feedback—has been invaluable. While it’s possible to grow on your own, outside perspective reveals blind spots and pushes your work further. For me, this kind of collaboration has been a source of encouragement and continuous growth.

Technical skills are important but they’re not everything. Developing your own style—a distinct voice—is essential. Proficiency gets you noticed, but your style is what sets you apart and builds an audience and clientele. Stay open to unconventional learning, embrace feedback / discomfort, and refine your work relentlessly. Tenacity, openess, and a unique creative voice are what will truly move you forward.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Photographer: Marielle Stobie

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