We were lucky to catch up with Marissa Prata recently and have shared our conversation below.

Marissa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

In 2021 I created a unique idea to set singles up on blind dates, and photograph the experience. The idea went viral on TikTok, and I received thousands of applications of people looking to participate in the experience. Dating today can be challenging and impersonal with the use of dating apps, and I was thrilled that so many people were willing to participate. Since then, I have set up over 50 people on blind dates all over New England. In just a few weeks I will be moving to the Greenville, South Carolina area and I am looking forward to reaching a new audience of applicants in the south that are interested in participating in my blind date series!

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?

My name is Marissa Prata and my journey into photography is a bit different than others. Most photographers have been creating art since they were young, but for me, the craft came later in life. I purchased my first camera in my early twenties as an opportunity to expand my hobbies. I enrolled in a class hosted by a local portrait photographer to learn the basics, and the rest is history. Once I felt comfortable and confident behind the lens, my creativity flourished. What started out as a hobby ten years ago has turned into Prata Productions LLC. My business officially began in 2020 as a side gig, but through the power of social media I have grown an amazing clientele and have been pursuing photography as my full time career for the past two years. Choosing a career in the photography industry is incredibly rewarding, but it does not come without its challenges. The industry is highly competitive, so standing out is paramount. I have chosen to excel in specific niches, as it is very important for me to harbor my craft. While authentic moments can happen naturally, my goal as your photographer is to instruct, guide and naturally pose you throughout your session. Because of this, I specialize in boudoir, couples, lifestyle, creative portraits and stranger session blind dates.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Social media has been a crucial way for me to grow my business, but I am a firm believer that potential clients are more likely to support your small business if they can get a feel for who you are as an individual. I am proud of my work, and there will always be clients who book with me solely for my skill and photography style. However, the majority of my clients book with me because my social platforms showcase my personality, making me personable and relatable. With boudoir being one of my most popular offerings, it is very important to me that my clients always feel comfortable. When you meet me for a consultation, I want you to feel like you are getting coffee with an old friend.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I am excited to share that I am in the middle of that story right now! I have lived in New England my whole life, and I will be moving to the Greenville, South Carolina area in November of this year (2023). Making the decision to relocate was not one I made lightly, as it will affect my personal life as well as my business. Change can be scary, but I am not one to stray away from a challenge. I have grown an amazing clientele here in New England, but I am confident in my work, and I know my business will thrive in South Carolina as well.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.prataproductions.co
• Instagram: @prata_productions
• Other: TikTok- @prata_productions