Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Ovalle
Hi Crystal, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It’s my kids fault.
The reason why I took up photography. My kids were so adorable and growing up so fast that I wanted to freeze these precious moments in time. Yet I could not always afford a professional photographer, so I would stage my own in-home photoshoots with a disposable camera, wait a week during the development process and cross my fingers that my shots came out good enough.
Being a mom who worked, raised four kids and homeschooled I did not have a lot of extra time to actually learn the craft of professional photography until my two oldest were graduating high school. Then with a bit more free time, I jumped at the chance to learn photography.
I started with buying my first camera which was a bundle set from Walmart for only about $700. A Canon EOS Rebel t7 with two kit lens. I was so excited! Until I started sharing my photos. Oh boy, social media was on the attack. I joined a few beginner photography groups to get inspiration and feedback. The inspiration was definitely there but so was the feedback… harsh feedback.
I nearly quit.
Then I remembered I am not a quitter.
So I left those groups, started my own social pages and sought out other inspiring photographers. I would private message these photographers to compliment their work and ask questions. To my surprise they responded. There really are amazingly kind people still out there willing to help.
I also watched tutorials, bought a couple of courses and kept asking for feedback.
Along the way I could not help but combine my newfound love of photography with my Graphic Design background to create photo composites. I have always been an advocate of imagination and encouraging others to never stop dreaming. So creating imagination worlds was exactly where I wanted my creative process to go.
But with limited funds, I would hit a wall when trying to create these worlds. Whether it was props, costumes, etc. So… I did what I always do, which is research and learn.
I got a sewing machine and learned to sew costumes. I got dollar store or thrift store finds and learned to make my own props. What I couldn’t make or buy, I would add digitally, so I learned illustration in Photoshop.
A couple of years in, I realized I was gaining more than photos of my kids. I was gaining memories with my kids! During the planning, prop making, location seeking and photoshoots we had so much fun and I must admit, some crazy behind-the-scenes moments!
This journey has brought me memories, confidence, new friends, new skills and work! I’ve done contract work for other photographers, families from other parts of the world and even a dog with his own book series.
2025 plans to be a big year for Crystal River Creations. As I take my photo compositing to the next level with imagination images that are more than just fantasy based images but images with a message, images that reflect our journey, images that inspire. We have so much planned… so FOLLOW, SHARE or REACH OUT with any questions or to book your session… and above all… keep dreaming!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No. It was not all giggles and sunshine.
When I started, I received a lot of harsh criticism and pushback. From those around me and online. I know criticism is part of growth but if not given with the intent to help, it can cause one to doubt and walk away. Which is what I almost did.
Yet I stayed up many late nights after work and early hours before homeschooling my kids to learn and practice.
Another hurdle was not having the funds to obtain some of the equipment or materials others in this profession have. Which may not seem like a big deal until others point it out and make it a big deal. As though you are less talented or capable because you do not have this or that. Yet as many photographers preach, “It’s not the camera that takes great photos, it’s the photographer.”
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Imagination!
Haha, I always think of the Spongebob ‘imagination’ meme when I say imagination. Yet, that pretty much sums up what I do and why I do it. I have always been a dreamer and have encouraged my kids to dream. Then take that dream and make it reality.
That’s what I do with my photography and creative process.
It starts with an idea, a fandom, a dream. Then the planning of how we can create this. We seek out the props, location, clothes, etc. I create the digital background in Photoshop prior to the photoshoot. Then I take the photos from the photoshoot and import them into the digital background. Edit in Photoshop to present a finished art piece of imagination brought to life.
I take a special pride in knowing that through my art I can encourage people to dream, to see their idea come to life, to give families more than a photo but a memory and to help small businesses promote themselves in a way unique to them. Not to mention the joy I get to share my process, tips and knowledge with others in the same field.
What sets me apart?
Easy… me. Haha. There are many other talented creative photographers but what sets each of us apart is who we are, what we’ve been through, what we dream of, and how we see the world.
As a photographer… I capture you. Who you are, what you love, what you dream.
As a photo compositor… I create your dreamworld and bring imagination to life.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
My composite work has always had a fun whimsical feel to it. I’ve enjoyed creating these dreamworlds or fandoms and creating these will not end… but… I’d like to introduce a side of my creativity I previously only reserved for myself. One with a deeper meaning. One with a message. One that lets others know… you are not alone.
Pricing:
- FREE Consultations
- FREE Quotes
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalrivercreations/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalrivercreations/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@crystalrivercreations
