Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Caitlin Ciulla. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Caitlin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
I’ve always been fascinated with the arts. When I was younger, I’d put on dramatic plays & musicals for my family, make up scenarios and lifestyles for my dolls for hours on end, and in middle school I obsessively took photos of nature and inanimate objects in my home/backyard. My obsession with interior design began back in 2006 because of the show “Extreme Makeover Home Edition”. I saw how they transformed kids bedrooms into elaborate, trendy bedrooms. My love of photography and interior design grew simultaneously- my hobbies soon became drawing out floor plans & picking home finishes and editing my photos on photoshop. When making the decision to pursue one of these collegiately, I chose interior design. I was told as a child that I would never make a good living in the arts but with interior design it seemed possible. A year and a half into my studies, I decided the industry wasn’t for me so I dropped out of college. Fast forward after years of holding various jobs and slowly growing my portrait photography business, I happened to try my hand at interior photography. Five years into interior & architecture photography now and I’ve proved that it is possible to make a living for your family as a creative entrepreneur. In the last few years I’ve mentored, taught, and have been privileged to speak to and encourage a number of artists & photographers. While my passion is photography, my deepest satisfaction comes from working with others- cheering on their dreams, helping them realistically plan, and empowering them with the confidence to take steps toward their goals.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m an architecture & interior photographer! I work with anyone in the industry from designers, builders, architects, home finishings vendors, etc. My clients choose to work with me because of my style, attention to detail, collaborative attitude, and over all excitement for their projects. What sets me apart is that I studied interior design for a few years so I have a knowledge of the industry. While a lot of photographers in the industry are “snobby” (for lack of a better word), I’m big on collaborating meaning I like working with my designers to capture images that they love as well. I’m most proud of building a business on integrity, open mindedness, professionalism, and creativity. While I do take my career very seriously, I’m a fun loving gal that’s eager to befriend all of my clients and have long lasting relationships. I love helping my clients through photography and marketing in general. My satisfaction is when they thrive in business and knowing they can trust me to help them!
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
Non-creatives tend to struggle to understand that photography isn’t just a “cute hobby” for some of us. Just like accounting, teaching, business, or food are careers..so is photography. And just like any other career, photography is learned and perfected over time. A lot of us spend hours learning, researching, and practicing. Professional photographers are more than just creatives, we typically run the whole show from photography, client relations, marketing, book keeping, graphic design, planning & strategizing, and managing/training employees.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Facebook groups. This seems obviously but I never knew there were Facebook groups for people in my niche! I’ve learned so much from others in my groups over the last 2 years. Had I know this was a thing early on in my journey, I think I’d be much more advanced now.
Contact Info:
- Website: caitlinantje.com
- Instagram: caitlinantje
- Facebook: facebook.com/caitlinantje
- Linkedin: Caitlin Ciulla
Image Credits
Caitlin Antje