We were lucky to catch up with Mariela Bastidas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariela, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Enrolling in a local photography school in Miami in 2022 was the first step in my photography journey. There, I gained both fundamental and advanced skills, laying a sturdy foundation for my passion. Yet, my hunger for knowledge pushed me further, prompting me to enroll in an online photography course to learn from industry experts.

Reflecting on my journey, I see opportunities to streamline my learning process. It took time to find my style and niche, eventually settling on personal branding photography and lifestyle content for coastal brands. Initially, I overlooked the importance of storytelling in my images, focusing solely on aesthetics. Had I sought mentorship earlier, I might have grasped this concept sooner.

Transitioning from hobbyist to entrepreneur presented its own set of challenges. Mastering the technical aspects was only the beginning—I had to learn how to transform my passion into a profitable business. Balancing my photography aspirations with a 9-5 job demanded discipline and perseverance, yet every obstacle was an opportunity for growth.

Despite the hurdles, I’ve witnessed significant progress in my photography business. In just two years, I’ve grown immensely, working with amazing clients who appreciate my work. I eagerly anticipate where this journey will take me next.

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

I discovered my passion for photography by chance during the pandemic, when what started as a hobby quickly evolved into a fulfilling career. Today, I specialize in creating lifestyle content for coastal brands and personal branding for women-owned businesses. As a content partner for my clients, I offer a comprehensive range of services, including thorough onboarding, preplanning, talent-sourcing, and guidance during shoots, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

What sets me apart is my photography style. I excel in using natural settings and mastering natural light. I love using nature as a backdrop for my work. However, I’m also proficient in producing studio shots when needed. My work is characterized by its vibrant colors, warm tones, and feminine aesthetic, capturing the essence of lifestyle vibes. I love crafting tailored mood boards and shot lists to meet each client’s specific needs, prioritizing an exceptional client experience every step of the way.

One aspect I’m particularly proud of is seeing my photos integrated into my clients’ businesses. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work plays a role in helping them thrive. Ultimately, I want potential clients, followers, and fans to understand that I’m more than just a photographer—I’m a dedicated partner committed to bringing their visions to life. Whether it’s creating compelling content for brands or empowering women entrepreneurs through personal branding, I’m passionate about delivering results that exceed expectations and drive success.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

My journey in growing my social media audience has been one of continuous learning and evolution. Initially, I, like many others, fixated on accumulating a large number of followers. However, I soon realized that the quality of engagement mattered more than the quantity of followers.

I started by authentically showcasing my work, posting high-quality images that reflected my unique style and brand. I made sure to connect with potential clients by understanding the community I wanted to build and tailoring my content accordingly. Collaborating with other creatives and brands was another effective strategy. Partnering with like-minded individuals and businesses allowed me to reach new audiences and engage with a broader community. These collaborations also provided opportunities for cross-promotion and networking, further expanding my reach.

For those beginning their journey in building a social media presence, I stress the importance of consistency and authenticity. Consistently posting quality content that resonates with your audience is crucial for building a loyal following. Focus on providing value to your followers, and remember that the quality of your content matters more than the quantity of followers. By staying true to yourself and your brand, you’ll attract the right audience and foster meaningful connections that lead to sustainable growth.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely! Education and community are indispensable in my photography journey. I’ve honed technical skills through courses like “The Photographer’s Path” by Nicole Hill and specialized lessons from “The Portrait Masters” by Felix Kunze & Patrik Naik. Looking back on my creative journey, I’m grateful for the resources I’ve discovered along the way. However, if there’s one thing I wish I had known about earlier, it would be the power of community and collaboration within the photography world. Connecting with fellow photographers and learning from their experiences, challenges, and setbacks has been immensely valuable. I believe that being part of a supportive community can accelerate growth and provide invaluable insights that can’t always be found in formal education or training programs.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.marielaaphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marielaa.photography/

Image Credits
Personal Photo Credits to Photographer Samar Saravia.