Today we’d like to introduce you to Dijana Szewczyk
Hi Dijana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born right before Yugoslav war and in Bosnia, right in the middle of the most intense conflict. I tend to not focus on that part of my life, but it has shaped the way I see myself, others around and also the feeling of not belonging too. We had to escape war zone and we moved to Croatia. Even though cultures are similar, I never really felt like I belong.
Growing up I was always a little bit weird and wild, feeling like there is so much to the world than our tiny village in the middle of nowhere, so it wasn’t a surprise to my family that I packed my suitcase, used last of my little savings and flew to America in 2012. I was 24, barely speaking any language and I was determined to live the American dream.
As silly as it sounds, I feel like I did it. After few years of traveling around, working as an au pair and nanny, I decided to buy a camera to take photos during my travels. Soon after I realized that I truly enjoy taking photos and that I am not bad either. From late 2016 when I got my camera to mid 2017, I just did as much as photographing as I could and I became full time photographer living the dream.
For the last 7ish years I have been booked out a year in advance, working primarily with women creating empowering portraits in nature or my studio. It has been such a beautiful journey and I love every aspect of it!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Depends how you look at it!
I am raised to believe the you just have to push through it. It’s not like someone is going to come and save you, right? :)
So life kind of sucked, but I’m still here.
I have my two beautiful daughters, crazy successful business, I am healthy and life is good.
All of those struggles have shaped the person I am today and helped me achieve the life I currently have and love.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a photographer for women through all stages of their lives. My speciality and what I believe I am really good at, is seeing the beauty in everyone and showcasing that beauty.
Boudoir photography is such a beautiful way to explore our sensuality and regain that feminine power that we lose as life gets more difficult. You start seeing and loving yourself as you are, once you see your gorgeous images.
Professional Branding I do for female clients is a great way to showcase your badass self as you are progressing in professional world. Images are personalized, crisp and professional while showcasing your personality and matching the vibe your brand needs.
Maternity or mommy and me is where my heart belongs. So many moms NEVER get any photos with their babies and we spend so much of their early years in fog, feeling like we just can’t handle the pressure of being photographed. Working with moms or moms to be and creating art that will be a beautiful memory and art for their walls is by far my favorite thing to do.
Overall, there is so much that goes into creating a brand that resonates with clients, and I truly believe that listening and paying attention to details can get you very far. I am very blessed with community of women I have created while running my business.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
My whole adult life is one giant risk after another, but that’s the beauty of life right? :)
I did travel to America all on my own, with zero connections, $200 and one suitcase. I opened and pushed a business that is super successful. I bought a house. I had kids. Every decision I did was scary and terrifying and life changing.
I believe it’s up to us to decide what our lives will be. If we are waiting for things to happen or others to do it for us, then you are not in control of your own journey.
I’d rather try and fail, over and over again, than sit on the same spot for 80 years of my life just because it’s safe and you don’t know what’s out there.
If I was waiting for a man to “allow me”‘ or push me to live my best life, I’d still be living in a tiny house in a village that consists of 2 churches, 3 bars and one grocery store. It’s not a bad life, but there is so much to more to experience, so why shouldn’t I?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dijanaszewczyk.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dijanaszewczyk
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dijanaszewczyk
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8K06RazJ7rdcQ5GFWkbm6w
- Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJocy7XD/
