Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leo Sotelo. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Leo thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
Having a clear vision for my business means knowing exactly what I want to achieve in the future. I started by defining my goals and imagining my business in 5, 10, or even 20 years. I think about my big dreams and ambitions and write them down as specific goals. Understanding why I started my business helped me stay focused and motivated. This vision acts as a roadmap, giving me a clear direction and helping me make decisions that align with my long-term objectives. It allows me to inspire and motivate my team, as everyone understands the end goal we are all working towards. With a clear vision, I can lead my business with purpose and confidence. When I decided to become a wedding photographer, I aimed to capture and create beautiful memories for the couple and their family. I bought a good camera and learned how to use it well. My first job was as a second shooter for a wedding photography studio, and I worked hard to take pictures that would give the couple a different perspective of their love story, “I can do this, kept telling myself.” The couple loved the photos, and soon, other people started asking me to take pictures at their weddings. By aiming my camera at the in-between moments, where the real emotions are shown without any filters, I built a reputation as a photographer who really “gets” each couple’s unique story. For me, it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about having fun, creating, freezing moments in time so they can have something to hold on to the happiest day of their lives, and helping them never forget why they got married.
Leo, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My journey into photography traces back to a poignant moment from my childhood. My dad left when I was 3, and I never saw him again. Growing up, I didn’t remember what he looked like. Then, when I was 13, my grandma gave me a photo of him, “here is your father she said,” throwing an old black and white picture onto my lap. It was the first time I had a glimpse of who my family was telling me I looked like. I meet my father through a picture. That picture made me realize how powerful images are. They help us remember important moments or people that otherwise would have been forgotten. So, I started taking pictures of everything to hold onto my memories. Years later, when I came to the USA, a coworker encouraged me to get into wedding photography. I have always loved photography, but it was only a hobby. I got my first wedding photography gig, and from the first day, I loved the chaos and excitement of a wedding day. Seeing family and friends who love each other, celebrating the couple, and capturing those human connections made me love it.
I have been a wedding and event photographer for 10 years now. I offer different services to suit every couple’s needs, whether for a small elopement, a surprise proposal, or a big bash. I aim to create genuine, heartfelt, and timeless photos that reflect each couple’s love story.
What makes my work special is my genuine love for what I do and my dedication to capturing the uniqueness of each couple’s relationship. I believe in building real connections with my clients and making them feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the relationships I form with my clients. I take great pride in the trust they place in me to capture their most significant moments. My approach is relaxed and natural, allowing couples to fully enjoy their special day while I discreetly document their joy. It’s these genuine connections and the trust they inspire that make my work so fulfilling.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
After COVID-19 hit, wedding photography gigs dried up, and most of my weddings were canceled or postponed- and it felt like too many photographers were competing for the same jobs. I was ready to give up. There was uncertainty about when the industry was going to recover. But instead of quitting, I took a break and focused on improving my skills and reaching out to potential clients online. Slowly, things started to pick up again. I realized that despite the crowded market, there was still room for passionate and persistent photographers. Now, I’m more determined than ever to keep doing what I love.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Referrals are the main way I get new clients. That means when someone likes my work and recommends me to their friends or family, those friends often end up booking me for their weddings, too. It’s the personal connections and recommendations that really drive my business forward. When someone trusts me enough to suggest me to their loved ones, it speaks volumes about the quality of my work and the positive experiences I provide.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.storyalleyphotography.com/
- Instagram: storyalleyphotography
