Today we’d like to introduce you to Catalina Valenzuela.
Hi Catalina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2021 I enrolled in Photography courses at Grossmont College. I had been taking portrait photographs of family and friends over the years to gain experience, but I wanted to learn more. I wanted to learn photoshop and I wanted to get so much more familiar with my camera. I have completed all courses to receive my Certificate of Achievement in Photography and through my coursework I have learned above and beyond my expectations, so much so that in July 2023 I opened LunaRoze Photography, my studio space in Barrio Logan inside the ArtHub building. There I opened my studio space and displayed all my photographic work I had been working on at Grossmont College. I also provided an opportunity for other photographers to curate their own exhibition in my studio as well. Through these experiences I met so many likeminded people and we got to share ideas, show our style of work, learn from one another, provide feedback, and share our goals for art and photography.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Becoming a small business owner has definitely not been a smooth road. There has been a lot I have had to learn along the way and I am still learning as we speak, but it also makes me that much motivated because I am doing it on my own and when things are working and are successful it is so rewarding to see all that hard work pay off. Learning how to sell my work, building a website, payment methods, taxes, permits, and everything in between, there is always room for growth. I always try to participate in workshops or opportunities where I can learn.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a native of San Diego and I am a portrait and street photographer who is deeply connected to my clients and my Hispanic heritage. Rather than opting for a traditional backdrop photoshoot, I love capturing families in their natural element – playing, laughing, and simply enjoying each other’s company. In my street photography I showcase the neighborhoods of my childhood and the spontaneous moments that catch my eye.
As the owner of LunaRoze Photography and having the opportunity to open a second studio with my Co- Owner, Daniel Padilla, in February 2024 which we named Confluencia Creativa Galeria, also in the Barrio Logan community, I am most proud of the relationships we have made within the community and the hard work we have done to run our gallery business.
I enjoy organizing photography and art shows where artists can come together to learn from one another, collaborate on projects, and showcase our work. I have only been officially in business for a year and I am still learning what is working and what is not working. I think we have to set ourselves apart from others, yes, but at this moment I just really enjoy everything I do as it comes to me. Do I want to be successful in my business? Yes! Do I want people to buy my photographs or hire me as a photographer? Absolutely! I think my professional attitude, my positive energy, my drive, my empathy, and my hard work will speak for itself and I look forward to all the future endeavors and clients I will get to work with.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
The best advice I can share about finding a mentor is to not be afraid to talk to people who are doing the same things as you. For example, in the beginning when I first opened LunaRoze Photography I followed as many people and businesses in Barrio Logan as I could. I wanted to be in the know about everything going on and around the community. In doing so I met a lot of people in person while out and about at different events, who then became friends, and in doing so we now get to support one another. I also recommend signing up and volunteering. This gives an opportunity for networking as well too. I have been fortunate to have met so many people who guide me on the business side of things and I am so grateful to those who share their experiences with me so that I can learn what to do and how to do things to be successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lunaroze-photography.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunarozephotography?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
All photographs done by LunaRoze Photography
