We were lucky to catch up with Michelle Ospino recently and have shared our conversation below.
Michelle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How do you think about vacations as a business owner? Do you take them and if so, how? If you don’t, why not?
As a photographer, I absolutely take vacations, and I believe they are essential—not just for avoiding burnout but for keeping my creativity fresh. Stepping away from work allows me to see the world in new ways, which ultimately enhances my photography. I’ve found that when I return, I’m more inspired, with a renewed perspective and fresh ideas. For entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away, I’d say: plan ahead, set clear boundaries, and trust that taking time for yourself will actually benefit your business in the long run. Rest fuels creativity, and creativity fuels success.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a hotel and travel photographer based in Medellín, Colombia, with a background in advertising and art production. My journey into photography started in university, where I minored in photography while balancing life as a new mom, bringing my son along to classes, museum trips, and even to the darkroom. After years working as an art producer in the advertising industry, I felt burnt out and took a much-needed trip to South Africa. While on safari, I captured architectural shots of the hotel I stayed at, and they loved them so much that they asked to use them for their social media. That moment sparked something in me—I realized I could combine my love for travel and photography into a career. I spent time building my portfolio, pitching myself to hotels, and growing my brand. Now, I not only shoot for hotels but also work with travel companies, creative retreats, restaurants, and more. What sets me apart is my ability to capture the essence of a place in a way that invites people in, making them feel like they’ve already stepped into the experience. More than anything, I’m proud of showing my son that with hard work and resilience, you can build your dream life.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
At the heart of my creative journey is the desire to make people feel something through my work—whether it’s a sense of nostalgia, a connection to a past experience or person, or a spark of curiosity that makes them want to dive deeper into a particular place or culture. Photography, for me, is more than just capturing beautiful spaces; it’s about storytelling and evoking emotion and connection. Since moving to Colombia, I’ve been especially passionate about showcasing parts of the country that many people might not think to visit. Through my lens, I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the world’s hidden corners and encourage others to explore beyond the familiar.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
In the beginning, growing my clientele was all about persistence—lots of cold emails and putting myself out there. But as my business evolved, I realized that the most effective strategy wasn’t just about outreach; it was about relationships. Being myself, creating genuine connections, and making my clients feel truly seen has been the key to building long-term trust. When clients feel valued, they’re not only eager to work with you again, but they’re also excited to recommend you to others. Another major factor in my growth has been attending creative events and retreats—I’ve met so many amazing clients in spaces where people are open to collaboration and new ideas. At the end of the day, photography is personal, and the best opportunities often come from authentic connections.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michelleospino.com/
- Instagram: @michelleospino_
