Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tori Camera. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tori, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?
As a photographer and videographer within the wedding industry, I have seen some major shifts in trends in the past couple years. Due to Covid many couples were forced to rethink their big blow-out wedding plans and opt for something smaller and more intimate. Not only does this option cut costs, it also allows the couple to narrow down their guest list to those who they truly want to share the day with; their closest and dearest friends and family ones who will shower them with endless love and support.
Ultimately, I’ve seen a lot of “wedding tradition” being left in the past. There are no rules when it comes to who should be in your wedding party, what kind of vows you should recite, the type of decor or dress code you want. I think what couple’s are realizing is that it is their day, so they get to do it however they want, and I’m all for that!
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’m Tori Camera, a photographer and videographer for couples and families.
It all started for me when I was just a little kid. My earliest memories revolve around my interest in the arts. Drawing, painting, sculpting, music, acting, the list goes on! For years I’ve enjoyed learning and creating with countless mediums, but photography has always been my constant. I’ve been photographing the beautiful people in my life since my days in high school when I would steal my mom’s Sony Cyber-shot for spontaneous photo shoots with friends. When my family would travel out of town, I was the one to document the trip. If I was bored at home I’d make silly music videos in my back yard or take self-portraits in my bedroom. I loved creating so much that when it came time for me to go to college it never crossed my mind to study anything other than art. I’ve completed multiple degrees in Fine Art and Photography; ultimately receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Photography from the University of Central Florida.
I truly believe we are all born with an innate passion; something that brings meaning and fulfillment into our lives. My passion has always been art. From an early age I dreamed about finding success in a creative field. Today, I am living that dream as a Photographer and Videographer. While it is a joy to photograph and film beautiful couples and families, it’s not just about creating a pretty picture to hang on the wall or share on Instagram. I find it to be a privilege and an honor to be trusted and welcomed into my client’s life for a mere moment to help them create and capture the memories they will cherish and pass down for years to come!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of what I do is getting to share my craft with others. I get to share what I love to do with someone who in turn appreciates and cherishes the outcome. Not only am I honored to share my skills with clients who hire me upon finding me on Facebook or Instagram or Google, but there’s something even more special about working for my own friends and family! I’m endlessly grateful for that kind of support from the people I love, where they believe in my business enough to hire me and pay full price for my service. Not only do I feel that support for my business, but I truly enjoy getting to spend that time with them creating special memories. Being a small part of their important life moments is priceless to me.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Pursuing a creative career was definitely not an easy road. But, I was willing to do what it took to achieve the life that I wanted for myself. When I first started college I was unsure of what exact major to select. I knew I loved the arts and that I wanted to own my own business someday, but I wasn’t sure what that would look like. After completing a fine arts degree from Valencia College, I decided I wanted to try for one of those big name art schools. However, I was quickly discouraged when realizing just how expensive that route would be. It was decided that I would be better off remaining in state, completing a photography degree Daytona State College, then transferring to UCF for my bachelor’s degree.
Through many years of schooling I worked two and three jobs at a time to pay for classes and supplies and living expenses. I took full advantage of whatever financial aid I could get and steered clear of loans (until my final year of school when my financial aid was discontinued.) I stayed up late nights to complete assignments and study. I cried, and stressed, and wondered if it would all be worth it some day. I can tell you now that it was! I eventually completed school and began my business virtually debt free!
Along with my sheer determination and a slight fear of failure, I was able to get some of the toughest times because I was surrounded by family and close friends who truly believed in me. From the beginning they supported my dreams without questions and where there for me along the way. I recognize that I’m extremely blessed to have that kind of support system and am eternally grateful to them!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.toricamera.com
- Instagram: www.toricamera.com/tcphotovideo
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/tcphotovideo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toricamera/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/tcphotovideo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-CLZtWwZb5qkac79p2vEmw
- Other: www.vimeo.com/toricamera
Image Credits
Tori Camera