We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Adrianna Gonzalez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Adrianna below.
Hi Adrianna, really appreciate you joining us to talk about a really relevant, albeit unfortunate topic – layoffs and getting fired. Can you talk to us about your experience and how you overcame being let go?
Back in 2020. I was laid off from my 10 year job due to Covid-19. I was a single mother at the time and had to figure out how to continue providing for my kiddos. It was then that I realized that I could finally do what my heart desired which was becoming a Full-Time Wedding Photographer. I got my first wedding since 2019 and I haven’t stopped since!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As a passionate photographer based in North County and San Diego, I specialize in capturing life’s moments through a lens, transforming fleeting memories into tangible treasures. My work is a vibrant blend of photography and videography, with a special emphasis on creative reels that weave together cinematic and storytelling elements. This unique approach brings a dynamic and engaging dimension to every project, making each piece not just a photo or a video, but a vivid narrative. What sets my brand apart is not just the quality of the images and videos I produce, but the emotion and life imbued in them, making every shot a testament to the beauty of the moment.
I’m thrilled to announce a new chapter for my brand: the integration of video services into our packages. This expansion allows us to offer a more comprehensive suite of options to our clients, ensuring every aspect of their story is captured with the depth and vibrancy it deserves. Whether it’s a wedding, a family gathering, or a personal branding project, our clients can now enjoy a richer, more immersive experience. As we continue to grow and evolve, my team and I are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of those we have the pleasure of working with. Stay tuned for more updates and adventures as we capture life’s magic, one frame at a time.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In the ever-evolving world of photography and videography, where each frame tells a story and every detail can capture a moment, the virtues of persistence, patience, and humility have been the cornerstone of my journey. These principles have not only shaped my artistic expression but have also guided me through the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a passion in a highly competitive field.
Persistence has been my compass, guiding me through the highs and lows, reminding me that every setback is a setup for a comeback. It’s the driving force that keeps me exploring, experimenting, and pushing beyond the conventional boundaries of creativity. Whether it’s mastering a new technique or tackling a complex project, persistence ensures that I remain committed to my vision, even when the path becomes arduous.
Patience, on the other hand, has taught me the art of timing and the importance of allowing ideas to mature. In a fast-paced industry where immediacy often takes precedence, patience has been a valuable ally, allowing me to develop my skills, refine my craft, and wait for the perfect moment to capture an image or a scene. It’s a reminder that greatness takes time, and the best outcomes often come to those who wait.
Humility, perhaps the most profound of these virtues, has kept me grounded and open to learning. It’s a constant reminder that no matter how much I achieve, there’s always more to learn and room for growth. Humility has enabled me to embrace feedback, learn from others, and view each project as an opportunity to evolve. It’s through humility that I’ve formed meaningful connections, collaborated effectively, and stayed true to my authentic self.
Together, persistence, patience, and humility have not just been important; they’ve been indispensable. They’ve taught me to persevere with passion, wait with purpose, and walk with humility. This trio of virtues has been a guiding light, illuminating my path, enriching my art, and ensuring that every step I take is grounded in purpose and poised for growth.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
In the tapestry of my career, two figures stand out prominently, weaving threads of support, wisdom, and encouragement into the fabric of my success: my husband and my mentor, Nancy Easton. Each, in their unique way, has been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the photography and videography industry, overcome obstacles, and hone the skills and qualities essential for success.
My husband has been the bedrock of my journey, offering unwavering support and belief in my capabilities even when doubts clouded my vision. His steadfast presence has been a source of strength, pushing me to pursue my passions relentlessly. He’s the person who reminded me of my worth and potential during moments of uncertainty, ensuring that the flame of my ambition never flickered out. Beyond emotional support, his practical help, whether in managing the business’s backend or offering creative feedback, has been invaluable. His partnership has not just been in life but in the very essence of my career’s growth and sustainability.
Nancy, my mentor, has been a beacon of knowledge and guidance. With a wealth of experience in the photography and videography field, she has generously shared her insights, teaching me not only the technicalities of the craft but also the nuances of navigating the industry. Nancy’s mentorship has been a blend of encouragement and constructive criticism, pushing me to expand my boundaries and explore new creative avenues. Her ability to see potential where I saw limitation has been a driving force in my development, encouraging me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
Together, they have shaped not just the photographer and videographer I am today but the person I have become. My husband’s support has given me the courage to take risks and the resilience to endure, while Nancy’s mentorship has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to refine my art and vision. Their influence has instilled in me a profound sense of humility, persistence, and patience—qualities that are the backbone of my success.
In a field as dynamic and competitive as photography and videography, having a support system comprising individuals who believe in you, challenge you, and guide you is indispensable. My husband and Nancy have been just that—my pillars of strength, wisdom, and inspiration. As I continue on this journey, their roles in my life remind me of the power of support, mentorship, and collaboration in achieving one’s dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://saltandsolstudios.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltandsolstudios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltandsolstudios
Image Credits
Salt & Sol Studios Easton Studios
