We were lucky to catch up with Angela Umali recently and have shared our conversation below.

Angela, appreciate you joining us today. Can you share a story about the kindest thing someone has done for you and why it mattered so much or was so meaningful to you?

Over a decade ago, long before I realized just how much photography was my passion, a friend of mine gifted me a back drop stand, backdrops and lights. The whole set up! She believed in me long before I imagined I could do this professionally. For years, we would go out and take photos. She was a natural with make up, wardrobe and posing. She knew just how bad that I wanted to learn studio photography. From that moment on, there was a fire in me that made me want to learn so much more.

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

Initially, I was self taught. I later attended courses at the local college and community. I’ve worked with other photographers that were great to mentor me. I’ve always enjoyed learning all that I could when it came to photography. From the camera, to post production to the business side of things. Social media has been a big part in reaching out to potential clients and creative projects. Working with several local models, I am multi-published in international art and fashion magazines. In addition to editorial projects, I have shot with local actors’ and entertainers’ headshots. My aim is and always has been, to create a comfortable space where the model or client is at ease and can express who they really are, throughout the session.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

To not wait for the perfect time and place. You’ve got to make the time for the things that you really want. The imposter syndrome is something that took some time to get over. I would often think, that since I wasn’t at the level as the photographers that I admired, I’m not worthy to pursue my dreams. We are all deserving of everything that we want. We just have to ask for it and DO more than what we say. Plan attainable goals, whether it be big or small and execute each and every one of them.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

Funding my business, took some time, but it just seemed so serendipitous. Whether it be buying a camera during a sale, finding equipment on FB Marketplace, investing in the editing programs, online storage websites, or online courses, they all seemed affordable at the time that I bought them. It took a few years, but you don’t have to buy things all at once. Be patient and it will all come together.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: missangiephotography
• Facebook: missangiephotography
• Other: https://kavyar.me/missangiephotography