We recently had the chance to connect with Anyssa Matthews and have shared our conversation below.
Anyssa , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have you stood up for someone when it cost you something?
I’ve always believed in standing up for those who may not have the courage to speak for themselves, especially when dealing with challenges like disabilities. It’s something that comes naturally to me because I have a strong sense of what’s right. While doing so has sometimes cost me friendships, I’ve come to realize that those who were lost were never truly friends to begin with. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Anyssa Daviana Matthews, a San Diego photographer owner of Davianadivinephotos passionate about capturing confidence, beauty, and connection. Whether it’s a maternity session, milestone celebration, or personal portrait, I create a space where my clients feel seen, empowered, and radiant. People often say working with me feels like meeting an old friend—and that warmth is at the heart of everything I do. I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received and excited to keep growing through the lens.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I used to believe that my circumstances defined me—that the challenges I was born into were my “why me.” But as I grew, I came to understand that my past doesn’t have the power to limit my future. I have the freedom to become anyone I choose to be. Today, I’m working to fulfill the dreams I once had as a little girl and to show both her—and my son—that you can rise above any obstacle. Your circumstances don’t define you; they can refine you. With perseverance and belief in yourself, anything is possible.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me what success never could—that there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. Growth often requires struggle, and in those moments, I learned to be kind to myself, to offer grace, and to speak words of encouragement. Where you come from doesn’t have to define where you’re going. The hard times shape you, and even as you reach milestones you once thought were out of reach, it’s the struggle that builds your strength, makes your story, builds your spirit, and makes you beautiful.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in this industry is that you have to fit into a box—flawless, model-perfect, and polished. But the truth is, our flaws and experiences are what make us human. Everyone deserves to have their story told, no matter their appearance or beliefs. Every story is unique, and a single photo can hold a thousand unspoken words. My job is to tell those stories—raw, real, beautifully flawed, and full of soul—while capturing essence, beauty, and a sense of connection in every frame.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
The way my mind works is quite unique. When I set a goal for myself, it becomes a personal promise—something I feel deeply committed to fulfilling. While I genuinely appreciate praise and encouragement from others, I’ve learned that true satisfaction comes from within. No matter how many people tell me something is great, if I’m not personally fulfilled by the outcome, I’ll keep refining it until I am. I hold myself to a high standard, and my motivation comes from knowing I gave my absolute best—not for recognition, but for the integrity of my own vision
Image Credits
All photos taken by yours truly @davianadivinephotos
