Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mariah Porras. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Mariah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later?
If I could go back in time I would have started my business sooner in a heartbeat! I wouldn’t allow my own personal fears or what others thought of me to hold me back! You never know unless you try… that’s the saying right?…… well, its 100% true. What is wrong with following your dreams? Absolutely nothing! Growing up our parents always taught us we could accomplish anything we set our mind too, but as we grow and turn into adults our own personal ideas and thoughts of ourselves often discourage us from pursuing our passion. A turning point for me was when I got married in October 2023. I remember while planning my wedding It was difficult for me to find a photographer that I liked, that was also within my budget, and available on my wedding date. After my wedding I received a lot of encouragement from my loving husband to start my business. I would often talk to him about how tired I was of my job and how I wish I could pursue photography full time. It was then he told me “Well why don’t you?” I was absolutely shocked by his response…… there’s no way I could leave my job, (I thought to myself). But as I pondered on this longer, I began to question why couldn’t I? What was holding me back? Absolutely nothing! Only myself. That was the beginning of me starting my business. Now, I didn’t just go automatically quit my Job and never return. As of now I still work part time at my current employment and as a part time photographer. But in the future going full time as a photographer is still my ultimate goal! It’s taken laying the groundwork and small steps to accomplish these big goals.
Likely If I started sooner, I would have been farther along in progressing my experience, skills, and portfolio. Though I cant change the past I can keep moving forward!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Mariah. I’m the face behind the camera and creator of Mi Cielo Photography. My love for photography stems from my childhood. Often, I found myself escaping into creative outlets such as drawing, writing, singing, dancing & more! But out of all these hobbies the one that stayed consistent was my love for capturing and documenting memories! As I grew older this hobby turned into a passion for me, and I would often take photos on my phone and admire my shots. Later I decided to start my own photography page. I knew I had to find ways to stand out, my personal way of doing this is by creating authentic moments. My favorite photos to take are candid, romantic, and artistic. I try to look through the lens with a different approach while also creating a environment where my couples feel comfortable. I have found this is the best way to capture timeless moments.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Though I’m also fairly new I would love for others to know to VALUE yourself. This is something ive had to consistently tell myself, Be confident in your work, and what you bring to the table. Afterall only you know how hard you work to provide the best result for your clients.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My personal goal is to build my social media platforms. I would love if all us creatives support one another in our small business endeavors. !
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Mariah Porras
Mi Cielo Photography