We recently connected with Tina June Malek and have shared our conversation below.
Tina June, 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 used to walk into a room and immediately have this overwhelming feeling that everyone was questioning my competence as a photographer. Whether it be due to my gender, my height, my hair, or my ethnicity… I knew people doubted that I could do my job well. It gave me determination to prove them wrong. Once I felt I had successfully won everyone over, I walked away feeling really good about myself.
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?
I’m a photographer specializing in portraits and events. I have the privilege of making people feel and look beautiful and capturing moments people will never get back.
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?
I would say I’ve really had to rely on my people skills to get me through many jobs and to have satisfied clients who keep coming back. A vast knowledge in lighting is essential. Much of my job is reassuring people that they look amazing and to leave it to me to do the rest. My advice to people who are early in their photography career is to figure out what you are good at, and specialize in it, so you become an expert and your clients come to you knowing exactly what they’re getting.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
I’m currently facing some health issues and chronic pain, and my business is purely run by me and me alone. Therefore, I’ve had to advocate for myself and my health, while simultaneously continue to market my photography business and complete my jobs and give it 100%. I have been balancing the two as well as I can.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tinajune.com
- Instagram: @tinajunemalek
- Facebook: Tina June Malek
