We were lucky to catch up with Valentina Perez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Valentina, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Impostor syndrome is something I’ve struggled with for many years, especially before finding my niche in family photography. It’s a real challenge that many people in creative fields face, including myself. For a long time, I doubted my abilities and felt like I didn’t belong. However, once I immersed myself in newborn and kids photography and started learning from workshops, studying techniques, and connecting with fellow photographers, I began to gain more and more confidence.
I believe that overcoming impostor syndrome is a journey of continuous learning and growth. By actively seeking knowledge, practicing consistently, and learning from others in the field, I’ve been able to quiet those self-doubts and focus on developing my craft. It’s a process, but finding my passion and investing in my skills has been instrumental in overcoming those feelings of self-doubt.”
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Photography has been my passion for over a decade, but it’s in the last year and a half that I’ve focused professionally on family photography, specializing in newborns and capturing those adorable cake smash moments. What excites me most is newborn photography; there’s something incredibly special about preserving those brief moments when babies are so tiny and precious. I love to keep my newborn photos simple, focusing on the baby and capturing their tiny details: their tiny fingers, little toes, and delicate features. These are the things that parents want to remember forever.
I’m particularly drawn to creating timeless and elegant photos that families can cherish for years to come. For me, it’s about capturing the essence of a newborn and creating images that will stand the test of time. Recently, I’ve been exploring fine art photography techniques to enhance this approach, learning how to create images that have a painterly quality. I believe these types of photos not only document a moment but also become treasured memories that families will proudly display in their homes.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to see parents’ faces light up when they see their baby’s photos, knowing that I’ve captured such a precious time in their lives. Each session is unique, and I strive to create an experience that is relaxed and enjoyable for both parents and baby. It’s a privilege to be able to document these early days and provide families with memories they can treasure forever.
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?
In my photography journey, three qualities that have made a significant impact are patience, continuous learning, and a strong connection with my clients. Patience is crucial, especially in newborn photography where timing and the baby’s comfort are essential. It allows me to create the perfect shot and have a relaxed atmosphere.
Continuous learning has been an essential key to my journey. Staying curious and open to new techniques, trends, and technologies has kept my work fresh. Attending workshops, exploring online resources, and seeking mentorship have been invaluable in refining my skills and expanding my creative vision.
Lastly, building a strong connection with the families who chose me has been crucial. It’s about creating a comfortable environment where they feel at ease and can genuinely express themselves, resulting in more authentic photographs.
For those starting their journey, I recommend prioritizing these areas. Cultivate patience to allow moments to unfold naturally. Embrace continuous learning through educational opportunities and experimentation, and focus on building genuine connections with clients to create meaningful photographs.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who truly appreciates the art and effort behind photography, especially newborn photography. They understand that it’s more than just capturing a moment; it’s about meticulous planning, attention to detail, and creating a comfortable environment for their little one. From brainstorming and decorating to selecting props and crafting an action plan, every step contributes to capturing those precious early moments.
They recognize that the process extends beyond the photoshoot itself. It involves careful selection of the best images, skilled editing and retouching to enhance each photo, and ensuring the final result reflects the beauty and essence of their family. This understanding allows us to collaborate closely, ensuring we create timeless images that they’ll cherish for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.valenperezphotography.com
- Instagram: valenperez.photography
- Facebook: valenperez.photography
Image Credits
Yarelis Rojas for personal photo
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
