We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Priyanca Rao. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Priyanca below.
Priyanca, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
If you’re curious about the heart behind our mission, let me share the journey that brought it to life. With over 12 years immersed in the wedding photography industry, I’ve come to intimately understand its close ties to beauty and aesthetics. We’re raised on the notion that weddings epitomize the pinnacle of beauty—a meticulously orchestrated day where every detail aligns seamlessly with our dreams.
In my early years, I wholeheartedly embraced this narrative. Clients envisioned their fairy tale weddings, and I delivered. The result? Picturesque, enchanting, and undeniably romantic photographs that left clients enamored. Yet, upon reflection, I sensed a hollowness beneath the surface. Despite their beauty, my images felt devoid of authenticity, lacking the genuine essence that truly tells a couple’s story.
Driven by a desire to imbue my work with real value and depth, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Recognizing the power of authenticity in storytelling, I transitioned to a more documentary-style approach, trained in photojournalism, and honed my ability to capture genuine moments—the imperfections, the raw emotions, and the unscripted beauty that make each couple’s journey unique.
Today, I’m passionate about educating clients on the raw, authentic beauty that lies beyond the facade of fairy tales. Through trust, vulnerability, and an openness to the unexpected, we create images that evoke genuine emotion—photos that move, inspire, and resonate deeply with those who view them. During discovery calls with clients, I encourage them to embrace authenticity and presence over perfection. We delve into the quirks and nuances of their relationship, inviting them to share their stories openly and honestly. By letting go of expectations and embracing the beauty of the moment, we create memories that are truly timeless. At the heart of it all lies a simple truth: be yourself, be present, and trust in the magic of the moment. This, to me, is the essence of authentic storytelling—the art of capturing life as it unfolds, imperfect yet perfectly beautiful in its rawness.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Beyond weddings and portraits, I am deeply passionate about family photography, drawing inspiration from the genuine expressions and candid moments that unfold before my lens. As a parent myself, I find joy in capturing the unfiltered beauty and spontaneity of family dynamics.
In recent years, my creative journey has extended beyond photography to encompass the realm of tangible art and interior design. Leveraging my expertise, I began producing luxury photography products, meticulously crafted in our Italian factory, to adorn the walls of discerning clients. Furthermore, the opening of my portrait studio sparked a foray into personal branding and headshots for business owners and creatives.
What sets me apart is not only my diverse skill set but also my unwavering commitment to creating meaningful experiences and tangible memories for my clients. Whether through capturing the raw emotion of a wedding day, empowering individuals through portrait photography, or transforming living spaces into works of art, my goal remains consistent: to enrich lives and inspire connection through the power of visual storytelling.
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?
Navigating the intersection of creativity and business acumen presents a unique set of challenges for those in the creative industry. While some may perceive artists solely as creators, the reality is that success often hinges on mastering the art of entrepreneurship alongside one’s creative pursuits.
As a creative professional, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of striking a delicate balance between artistic expression and financial viability. It’s not just about creating beautiful work; it’s about providing a luxury level of service that commands the value it deserves. This entails pricing oneself strategically, fostering growth, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
To achieve this, I’ve had to wear many hats beyond that of a photographer. From marketing and team management to contract negotiation and social media cultivation, I’ve embraced the responsibilities of a business owner with determination and resilience. While these skills may not come naturally to every creative, I’ve found that with practice and perseverance, they can be mastered and even enjoyed.
The journey from artist to entrepreneur is undoubtedly challenging, requiring a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone and embrace the unfamiliar. Yet, it’s also immensely rewarding, as it empowers creatives to take control of their destiny, build thriving businesses, and secure their financial futures. So, while the path may be arduous at times, the journey is imbued with growth, learning, and the fulfillment of turning artistic vision into tangible success.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Navigating the intersection of creativity and business acumen presents a unique set of challenges for those in the creative industry. While some may perceive artists solely as creators, the reality is that success often hinges on mastering the art of entrepreneurship alongside one’s creative pursuits.
As a creative professional, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of striking a delicate balance between artistic expression and financial viability. It’s not just about creating beautiful work; it’s about providing a luxury level of service that commands the value it deserves. This entails pricing oneself strategically, fostering growth, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
To achieve this, I’ve had to wear many hats beyond that of a photographer. From marketing and team management to contract negotiation and social media cultivation, I’ve embraced the responsibilities of a business owner with determination and resilience. While these skills may not come naturally to every creative, I’ve found that with practice and perseverance, they can be mastered and even enjoyed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://priyanca.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priyancaraophotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PriyancaRaoPhotography/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyancarao
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@priyancaraophotography
Image Credits
Priyanca Rao Photography