On Our Radar | Maria Vallejo Photography
Attention to detail, crisp, clean and fashion forward. That describes Maria Vallejo Photography. Oh and most recently, GLITTER! Yes, Glitter adorns her Instagram in her latest posts! Love It!
Here’s the ‘get to know you” chat we had this week.
“Hey Maria, Thank you so much for taking the time with me on this feature. I love your work! Tell me more about what makes you YOU!”
How long have you been in business? And how long Photographing seniors?
Almost eleven years! I’ve always loved fashion and it’s always so fun to work with young women so in 2012 I chose to exclusively photograph seniors because it felt like the perfect combination for me.
- Tell us about you, and your town / community.
I was born and raised in Colombia and majored in fashion and textile design in school so you could say I’ve always had a “passion for fashion.” I moved to the US 26 years ago and currently live in Gainesville, FL. It’s a cute little college town and I’m very happy I got to raise my family here.
- When you get into a creative slump where do you look for inspiration?
I look for inspiration in fashion magazines and love seeing all the creative looks in music videos. I’m always scrolling through my favorite clothing store’s websites and catalogues too; inspiration and online shopping, it’s a win-win!
- What is the one tool (camera equipment or office management) that you simply could not do without? (Other than your camera of course. ;)
My reflector! Light or no light, it makes a HUGE difference. It makes my pictures come to life even more.
- How do you describe your style?
Three words: trendy, glam & modern. If I had to describe it in one word, I’d say eclectic. I’m a huge fan of mixing colors, textures and different styles. I always try to add some sort of juxtaposition in my pictures.
- Do you have a model team and if so what do you attribute your model team success to?
This is my first year with a model team, actually! It’s a small group but I want to make sure I can give them the best experience I can give. I look after each of my models as if they were my own kids, I treasure those bonds so much!
- If you could offer advice to your “beginning photographer self” what would it be?
Don’t get discouraged and never stop dreaming. If you do, do a photoshoot that feeds your soul and makes you happy, it’s fun to forget the rules from time to time and do the things you love.
- What’s in your photography bucket list?
Honestly, I would LOVE to go to Croatia with a group of friend photographers and models and take advantage of the beautiful scenery, taking photos all day and having fun.
- What’s your best advice for maintaining work / life balance?
Have a schedule and respect that schedule. Work hard during the week so you can enjoy family time on the weekends. It’s important to remind yourself every day that it’s not just a job, you actually love what you do.
Maria can be found at www.mariavallejo.com and on Instagram at @mavallejophoto
Columnist: Jennifer Rapoza
