Today we’d like to introduce you to Amarilis Martinez.
Amarilis, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always had a passion for photography, videography, and designing. From as far back as I can remember, I have always enjoyed capturing moments for others and for myself. In 2007 while working as a jewelry drafter for a big manufacturing company, my love for designing expanded to so much more. I found out quickly that I could use certain programs to edit to create my hobby into art. My boss at the time sent me to Los Angeles to get certified in drafting, and I began photographing the pieces for him with his DSLR. Taking pictures with my cyber shot quickly became more. I slowly began taking photos of my own jewelry with models, and slowly I expanded to photographing people for portraits. I shot my first wedding in 2012, and haven’t stopped since. I love weddings, they make me so emotional, and I love capturing couples on the happiest day of their lives. On top of shooting professionally for my own business, I also work for SONY Headquarters as a DI Specialist. These days you will always find me working, but I LOVE IT!! I can best classify myself as a lifestyle, maternity, and wedding photographer.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it hasn’t always been a smooth road. It is always a struggle especially when one is used to working full time, and then decides to focus on their love in hopes it can produce a steady income. When I decided to concentrate on my BA, and then MBA full time is when I stopped working a traditional 9-5 and started shooting more. There were times that it was stressful, and wasn’t sure what I was doing. Luckily, I have a supportive husband. When I wanted to give up, he didn’t let me and always supported me.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Amarilis Photography & Film story. Tell us more about the business.
Amarilis Photography & Film specializes in weddings. We offer videography, photography, and Photo Booth. We have a team of 4, they all help it come together. During our down time, we shoot smaller sessions such as maternity, and portraits. I, as the main shooter love to listen to what my couples want. I am not just their photographer, I help in keeping the wedding in order and try to make it as stress-free for them as much as possible. Most importantly, I want to make sure they are happy with us, with our service and final product!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I always tell my husband that I have amazing luck (such as finding the really close parking in lots), but in my business, I feel that I am very lucky. Being a referral based company, we have managed to grow substantially thru ought the years without added advertisement. I don’t know if it is luck all the time, but I feel very blessed for this growth.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2191 Main St. Bldg 5, Unit 200
San Diego, Ca 91910 - Website: www.amarilisphotographyandfilm.com
- Phone: 6197377577
- Email: info@amarilisphotographyandfilm.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/_amarilisphotographyandfilm
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/amarilisphotographyandfilm
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