We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stephanie Morales a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, thanks for joining us today. Alright, let’s jump into one of the most exciting parts of starting a new venture – how did you get your first client who was not a friend or family?

As I embarked on my journey into freelance photography, I was determined to connect with seasoned professionals who were also based in NYC. Seeking insights about firsthand experiences, I reached out to friends, hoping to find a link to an established photographer. The search led me to a connection, another female portrait photographer, who happily agreed to a Zoom call for an informational interview. During our conversation, I gained valuable insights about the industry and a deeper understanding of what to expect.
About two weeks after our conversation, I was pleasantly surprised to find an email in my inbox. It turned out that the woman from the Zoom call had not only shared her knowledge but had also referred me for a recurring freelance role. The position offered not only a chance to sustain myself financially but also the opportunity to travel around the US, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Despite my initial concerns about my level of experience, the position was offered to me, and I found myself joining a dynamic team surrounded by other seasoned professionals. This opportunity became a financial lifeline, providing stability as I gradually built my portfolio and expanded my clientele over the next two years.

Reflecting on those early days, I am immensely grateful for the generosity of that unexpected connection and the opportunities that unfolded from it. It was more than just earning the first dollar- it was a transformative experience that laid the foundation for my career.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Despite taking a photography class in college and observing my father’s journey as a portrait photographer, the idea of turning my passion into a career hadn’t crossed my mind.
The turning point, however, occurred during the challenging times of the pandemic when I found myself without a job. With some encouragement from friends, it was then that I contemplated the possibility of turning photography into a meaningful career.
 In my role as a photographer, my commitment is unwavering—I strive to deliver memorable, high-quality images and experiences for all my clients, regardless of the scale of the project. What truly sets me apart is my ability to establish profound connections with both my subjects and my team, creating a safe and collaborative environment that enhances the creative process.

One distinctive aspect of my work is the personal touch I bring by hand-painting my backdrops for sets. This not only adds a unique creative dimension but also reflects a piece of myself in every photograph.

Reflecting on my journey, I take immense pride in the remarkable progress I’ve made in just three years. Never did I imagine that I would be booking campaigns with iconic brands like Air Jordan or seeing my work gracing the covers of publications like Sneaker Freaker magazine within such a short timeframe.

What I want people to know about me is that my commitment goes beyond capturing images—it extends to creating an experience that goes beyond expectations. I am driven by a genuine passion for my craft, a dedication to excellence, and a desire to continuously push the boundaries of my creativity. I invite both my clients and followers to not just witness my work but to become part of the journey where every image tells a unique story.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The most impactful source of new clients for me has been the power of personal connections and word-of-mouth referrals. Establishing genuine relationships within the industry and fostering a network of satisfied clients has proven to be invaluable. The referral from the freelance photographer I connected with early on opened doors to exciting opportunities, showcasing the significance of authentic connections in this field. Also, leveraging social media platforms to showcase my work has played a key role in expanding my reach and attracting clients who resonate with my approach to photography.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the profound satisfaction derived from making others feel beautiful through my work. Capturing the essence of individuals in a way that enhances their unique beauty and brings out their personalities is a fulfilling experience. There is joy in knowing that my creative vision can elevate someone’s confidence and leave them with images that reflects their true self. Equally, the collaborative nature of my work brings another layer of fulfillment. The synergy that comes from collaborating with diverse teams, whether it’s models, stylists, or other creatives, fosters a dynamic environment where ideas flourish. The exchange of perspectives and the collective effort to bring a vision to life is both invigorating and inspiring. It’s in these collaborative moments that the true magic of creativity unfolds, creating images that tell compelling stories and evoke emotions.

Contact Info:

• Website: Stphmrls.com
• Instagram: Shotbysteph.jpg
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/stphmrls