Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tatiana Castrillon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tatiana, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

Becoming a business owner has been the biggest risk I’ve had to take! You really don’t know how much work, sacrifice and time it actually takes until you start. Like most people, COVID allowed me to explore things in my life that I otherwise would not have had the time for. This is when my photography journey began. I picked up a camera and just starting shooting everything that my eye could catch. It was my friends, my family, the beach, myself, and even my pets! Once things started to pick up, and I started getting some traction on social media about it, one of my friend’s asked me this question, “why don’t you start a business?” At first I was taken back because I didn’t think I was even there yet, and then second, I already have a career that I am established and happy with, why would I start something now and at my age?!?! That’s what ran through my mind at first. But the more I picked up my camera, the more I fell in love with photography, and finally took the leap of faith. It’s something that you cannot fully prepare yourself for. You really don’t know until you try and get a groove for what works for you! It was scary and still is at times, but its rewarding. I have gotten to meet amazing people. I have been able to share special moments with new parents, families, models that were building their confidence and their portfolio. It was risk , but it was worth it!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am what I like to call a portrait photographer. I love you capture the true beauty and emotion behind the picture. I started creating with just my cellphone. But then I wanted more and I was eager to learn, so I bought my first digital camera. I tried to learn everything I could about the camera and shooting in manual. I reached out to other photographers on social media, watched YouTube videos and most importantly, I practiced any chance I could. I also have a passion to connect with my clients and create an experience where they can show their authentic self. By creating a comfortable environment and a relationship with clients, I have been able to capture beautiful moments for my clients that they absolutely love. I am most proud of the fact that my clients end up becoming more confident and empowered after their photography session.

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

When I first started my business, it was more focused on model portfolio and branding. As a continued down my path and new photography journey, I would also shoot some families and couples on the side. At first I didn’t think I would do this primarily, but the more I did these photoshoots, I noticed that I really enjoyed capturing these special moments of love. I decided at this time to pivot my portfolio. I did not limit myself to just the editorial aspect of the Modeling and branding industry, but bring that editorial essence to my couples sessions. This helped me to create more availability, expand my portfolio and create more income through my business.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A lesson I had to unlearn is that my photography business cannot be compared to others. I believe that when you continue to compare where others are in their journey, to where you are in your journey, it really causes you to slow down. I sometimes would feel that I “should be” further along because another photography business is. . But once I decided to just focus on my business, and where I was in my journey, it got easier. I started to celebrate MY milestones.. Everyone has their own timeline. Every business has something to offer their clients, and although I have photographers that inspire me to create, I still have my own goals within my personal business growth to reach. By focusing on this, it has taken the pressure off of myself by knowing that we all have our own gifts to offer. People that are seeking what YOU have to offer, will come and find you. As long as you focus on this, you will be less stressed and happy with YOUR pace!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bmonroephotography.com
• Instagram: b.monroe_photography
• Facebook: B Monroe Photography

Image Credits
Jillian Carpenter, Jade D’Mar, Hope Gonzalez IBBF Pro, Brianna Attidor, Andrew Nelson