We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Harmony Murillo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Harmony below.

Harmony, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)?

I was just starting out my photography career when I went searching for a way to learn more. I felt like I needed a mentor or a way to get a more hands on approach. Specifically, help on how to handle photoshoots. About a year prior I started following this established creator Emilynn Rose. She is a talented photographer/ creative director/ and videographer within the LA area. I thought that I would take the risk and email her, not really expecting anything to come of it. Low and behold she replied and we set up a zoom interview. From there I ended up getting an assistant position with her. Living in Temecula I knew the drive to Los Angeles would be taxing but I didn’t care. All I wanted to do was learn. I did that consistently for at least four-six times a month for a year. I was able to observe how to professionally handle clients, gained proper lighting techniques, as well as what kind of hard work goes on behind the scenes. Being apart of her team gave me the confidence to go out and get some of my own clients. I will never take that opportunity for granted. It truly helped me tremendously.

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

Hello!

My name is Harmony Skye Murillo. I am a professional photographer in Southern California. I have been interested in photography since I was about 16 but never got serious about it until 2017. Since then, I have worked for at least 1o production companies within San Diego’s electric dance music scene. Consistently working with at least half of them. As well as with many fashion brands and DJs, creating content for them. I also work for an online magazine called Music Festival Central, taking photos at music festivals such as Lightning in a bottle and Dirtybird Campout. This Month I am working with a production company called The Afternoon Umbrella Friends to help run their media team for the music festival they are putting on happening March 24-28th in Yucaipa, Ca. I also do portrait, graduation, family, and maternity photos on the side.

When I work with my clients, I try to make sure that we are on the same page regarding what the goal is. Successfully executing a vision for my clients gives me so much joy. Besides being vigilant on attention to detail I also try to make sure that my clients are comfortable. Making sure they feel confident and beautiful ultimately makes my job easier and the pictures turn out better. Getting your picture taken should be a fun and enjoyable experience and I try to implement that when I am working.

Another thing that sets me apart is my experience. I have been in this industry for four years now. I am tuned into my camera more than I ever have been. I can shoot quality photos pretty quickly now. I have learned its more about quality not quantity per say.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I think when the pandemic started everyone was thrown for a loop. Especially if you have your own business. Being an event photographer the jobs stopped for at least a year. During that time I decided to go back to school. I had dropped out of college at the end of my second year to pursue photography. Going back had seemed daunting until the pandemic. In December 2022 I will be done with my communications degree and I am very stoked to be almost done. I plan to utilize my degree along with my photography background to pursue marketing in the future.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Word of mouth. Most of my clients come from recommendations from others. Before, I would have to send a ton of emails every week in order to get maybe one or two responses. Now, I do get people asking for my services. Its a rewarding feeling for sure.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.harmonyskyephotography.com/
• Instagram: @harmonyskyephotos
• Facebook: @harmonyskyephotos

Image Credits
Harmony Skye Photography