Michelle Bongirno of High Desert on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Michelle Bongirno. Check out our conversation below.

Michelle , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Right now I’m in the middle of a 75 day challenge that has physical, mental and spiritual aspects. It is really bringing me joy because I am I’m allowing myself to be disciplined to reach the goals I have set for my personal life this year.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Michelle Bongirno and I’m a lifestyle, portrait, branding and wedding photographer. With each job it can be so much fun to see how people have grown their family, developing their businesses, being a part of the graduation process and being involved in one of the biggest days of their lives. I’ve been doing photography for almost 14 years so it has been so special to be a part of so many peoples journeys.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
If I’m being honest the pandemic. It shifted in the industry for most people in the art field, the way people interact with one another on the day to day basis. Friendship shifted, grief, anger and loneliness at an all time high, and emotions were at high alert. It’s been 5 years and things have never really been the same in so many peoples life and time just feels like it has sped up. I hope that one day we can all start to align and show kindness and respect where it is needed so much.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell her that it’s okay to fail. There is no reason not to try things and take chances in life, friendships and relationships. People are in your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. I would tell her she did the best she could with the cards she was dealt. Never stop being the kind person she was even when that was not returned.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
God’s love. I am a Christian that is a firm believer is showing Christ love and not condemning people just because they do not believe what you believe. If they are open to a conversation or want to know more I’m happy to share but God’s love is for everyone not just the select few they people dem appropriate. How will they know just a percentage of it if nothing but hate is thrown their way. I wish they could feel the same love I feel from having the relationship I have with the creator of the universe. Some people of faith do not make it a welcome space and I think that is something that try to do when the opportunity present itself.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m in nature. Nothing like a good hike, breeze or water near by to silence my busy mind. A few friends and I are trying to see all the National Parks in the United States. Each trip is so special to me and seeing all the different places created had been such an incredible experience.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Michelle Bongirno Photography

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