Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Lima
Hi Amanda , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in a small beach town in Brazil, life was all about creating memories, not collecting stuff. Our days were spent barefoot on the beach, wandering through the local street markets, sipping coconut water straight from the source, and indulging in açaí bowls. I was that curious kid, always asking questions and finding ways to be creative. My dad gave me my first foamy surfboard when I was about six, and from then on, the beach and the ocean became my happy place.
At 15, I got my first job at a local surf shop, and by 19, I’d saved enough to buy my first car. A few years later, at 22, I sold that car to fund a student exchange program that allowed me to experience a new culture and learn a new language. My dad always said, “Take the risk or lose the chance.” So, I packed my bags and started exploring the world.
I’ve been to NYC, London, Scotland, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Mexico, and so many other amazing places. Along the way, I laughed, cried, made mistakes, learned lessons, and met some incredible people. It wasn’t always easy, but the memories I made were worth every risk.
In November 2017, my dad lost his battle with cancer. Losing a parent is hard. Losing a parent that was truly good is devasting. My dad was truly good. After he passed, I knew I wanted to live a life that would make him proud, one that went back to the essence of who I was as a kid.
A year later, in November 2018, I took a leap of faith, quitting a high-paying tech job to move to Southern California. I wanted more out of life, so I did what my dad taught me—I took the risk. By 2021, I landed my dream remote job, but I needed a creative outlet outside of work. That’s when I launched my Instagram page, THEGIRLWITHAFILMCAMERA, to share my love for the ocean, surfing, and the outdoors through film photography.
From the start, my focus has been capturing raw, authentic moments—no filters, no edits. Just life as it is. I use my social media platform to share my passion for film photography and the stunning California coast with you.
If there’s one thing, I’ve learned in this crazy journey called life, it’s this: the fountain of youth exists, and it’s in your mind, your talents, and the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of others. So go ahead—be bold, be brave, and believe in your dreams. Because, as my dad always said, “Take the risk or lose the chance.”
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, no. Being a fulltime global manager for a tech Company, on top of running my photography business and surfing around the world, there’s a balance I’m constantly working on.
But I wouldn’t trade it. Every struggle has taught me something new, and there’s always a sense of satisfaction when I am able to achieve all my personal and professional goals. capturing a moment that feels just right.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
When I’m not managing a team of tech folks in my full-time job, you can usually find me on a road trip, capturing moments that are real and timeless on film. My work revolves around photographing the stunning coastal California landscapes, the vibes, and the surf culture. One of my favorite moments in my photography journey was when one of my photos was sold to a home design firm a few years back. The homeowner invited me to see the piece in their home and they had it frame right by the entrance. He shared that he grew up surfing at San Onofre, so every time he looks at that photo, it takes him back to his childhood. That’s the essence of what I do—creating a moment and immortalizing it forever, so others can feel inspired by it.
I shoot exclusively on film, and my photos are raw, never edited. I think that’s what sets me apart from other photographers, especially those who shoot on film but heavily edit their work. The beauty of film photography, for me, lies in its authenticity and the way it captures emotions in a way that digital simply can’t replicate.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Film photography has a unique way of capturing not just a moment, but the raw emotions and stories behind it. There’s something powerful about embracing the imperfections of film—each shot is a chance to be fearless, to trust in the process, and to let your creativity unfold without the need for perfection. Just like in life, the beauty often lies in the unplanned, the unexpected, and the real.
I encourage you to chase what sets your soul on fire, even when the road gets tough or uncertain.
Follow your dreams relentlessly, and don’t be afraid to take the leap into the unknown. Whether it’s through a camera lens, a surfboard, or any other passion, dare to take risks and embrace the journey.
Be fearless in your pursuit of what feels right to you and remember: the most beautiful moments often come when we least expect them. Keep shooting, keep dreaming, and never stop believing in your vision. The world is waiting for your story.
Pricing:
- $325 for an hour film photoshoot (one roll + film development)
- $1500 film photography for corporate events or weddings (plus film and development)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thegirlwithafilmcamera.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thegirlwithafilmcamera_/
- Other: email: thegirlwithafilmcamera@gmail.com
Image Credits
Photo Credit
Models: Nalu Cabral (Hawaii photoshoot for Made by Miga), Shannon Gallagher (Photoshoot for Almond Surfboards) and photoshoot Lost Surfboards), Bailey Vantassel (Mom and daughter photoshoot), Abigail McHugh (photoshoot for Abysse)
