Today we’d like to introduce you to Carli Castro.
Hi Carli, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Photography is defined as the ‘art or practice of taking and processing photographs. Admiring this art since I was young, I taught myself the ethics and beauty of photography. Now older, with over 5 years of experience, I’ve seen the world through a lens of possibility. Being able to use this artistry as a lifestyle is beyond a dream! Photography and videography allow me to consider and portray how to best capture the candid image. Utilizing unique editing skills enables each camera shot to have endless effects. My absolute favorite style of photography is film. Even when I shoot in digital, my instinct is to edit through the lens of the often-neglected style of film. Until photography came into the picture, I found joy in many creative spaces, but none held my interest for very long. Photography is truly an outlet for me to express and explore every way of life. Poetry, art, and music are a staple companion to my photography style. Bringing photos to life allows me to be myself while displaying my work ethic. Through the years, I found myself searching for an abstract feeling in my work to really tell a story, paint the picture & grab hold of the moment. Each and every day, I ask God to inspire me through my lens to recreate His image more than my own. I’d like to call myself more than a photographer…rather, a photographic storyteller.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Start-up businesses, like Carli Castro Photography, come with challenges. Like every photographer, I am forever tempted by the latest camera or next best tool. I can testify that this has not been such a hindrance for me, as I have been blessed with very generous people who help to equip me. Honestly, social media’s extremely competitive nature has lended to the greatest area of growth. In the beginning, I experienced difficulty in knowing where to start, but you can’t get to the finish line without getting on the track. And like a runner who needs a good coach…any good business is only strengthened on the advice of mentors. Again, I have been so fortunate to have the help of entrepreneurs who have a proven track record of building successful businesses solely through social media. Still learning & growing, I aim not to be discouraged by my ‘following’ count or how many ‘likes’ a post receives. I believe in my work; it matters to me, and I am proud of each piece of art that is created. I am therefore encouraged and confident that whoever I get to work with will be left with lasting memories that will forever matter to them. That transcends a scroll through social media.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am most proud of how far I’ve come in the platform of photography. There are certain photoshoots where I can see how God was directing me while working through me to capture His creation. I’ve most enjoyed working with people that want to have fun with it while capturing exhilarating moments with their loved ones, lovers, friends, or even solo. As I’ve mentioned previously, film is my absolute favorite technique. It’s exciting because you know what you captured in the moment. Then, later once that film has been exposed to light…it awaits development into a whole other surprise. With film, one view has endless perceptions. My photography might be labeled as ethereal, not so many fine lines, but an endless blur of imaginative possibilities. I believe what sets me apart is my upbringing.
I always think back to when I began homeschooling in 3rd grade. It has shaped, improved, and impacted my perspective on this world and its history. I know some scrutinize homeschooling…we really are a unique group. We are set apart. I am ok being different. I embrace not ‘fitting in’ to the norm. What is normal, anyway? I am working to honor my purpose, not anybody else’s. Truly, I thank God every day for the homeschooling opportunity, as I have met the most amazing people and made the best friends. I truly believe being homeschooled also gave me the flexibility and space to discover where I could be the most creative. Photography captured my gifting where I am able to flow freely with my camera. When people look at my art, I want them to feel something and find potential within me, the work, and hopefully to inspire them to find the same within themselves.
What matters most to you? Why?
In God’s Word, Philippians 2:21 says, “… all the others care for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ.“ My purpose in this life matters most to me. Who will I help? Who will I teach? Who will I influence to find their own purpose? Ultimately, I believe I am to be light to this dark world. When I find myself in a dark place…I utilize photography as an outlet to express emotions. I look for the right light to expose areas of uncertainty. My family matters immensely, and they each have a very specific and strategic part of my purpose. It has been vital that I surround myself with the right voices. They truly affect the trajectory of our life. So, I am thankful to have friends who have been a great encouragement to me daily. Obviously, I am most thankful to my Creator, who lives within me and continually gives me such amazing opportunities in this season of my life. I often ask myself, “…what legacy will I leave behind?” My prayer is that it is a legacy of love, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion. And that it helps someone else consider…What matters to others?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carlicastrophotography.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlicastrophotography/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
Image Credits
Taylor Briggs
