Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Vanella.
Brittany, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been in the Finance industry for almost ten years now and unfortunately have been unhappy with what I do for the past few years. I thought I was doing the “right thing” by sticking with a 9-5 job in the corporate world with consistent pay, but deep down I just knew it didn’t feel like something I should be doing. I wanted to go to Art School right out of high school but was told it was too expensive and that it would be hard for me to have a career in that field. So, I began my journey at 19 working in finance, and here I am now trying to finish my degree in Photography and attempting to begin my own business in it. I was still being told just a few months ago by a family member that I should be a Doctor or Lawyer because you don’t really make any money being a Photographer. Within less than a year of starting my food and travel blog, I’ve met so many amazing people all through the world of being a foodie. It’s amazing how a community of people who share the same interests can lead you into this beautiful world that I never knew before. I am now an influencer for Zipkick, post for Bestfoodfeed, as well as the Rayka app for travelers. Most importantly, through this journey, I’ve realized that life is too short not to go after my dreams, regardless of what others tell me.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Not at all. It’s very challenging trying to juggle a full-time job, going to school and attempting to begin your own business. But the passion I have for Photography and the culinary world lights the fire under me every day to keep going. The best advice I have is to find something that you are truly passionate about and give it 150% AT ALL TIMES. You will have to sacrifice certain things and the scariest part for me is giving up a consistent paycheck with health benefits and all. But I’ve realized that no amount of money can make me happy. I may be able to maintain living in San Diego and have been blessed to travel, but at the end of the day, I’m miserable with what I do. When you’re happy with your career, you are able to be your best self. Don’t let anyone or anything get in the way of your goals because at the end of the day, it’s your life to live and you only have one so give it your absolute best.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I enjoy all areas of Photography but I specialize in food Photography for restaurants. I am proud to be apart of the Zipkick, Bestfoodfeed, and Rayka team. Seeing my peers inspires me to do better every day. I am extremely thankful to have been exposed to many different cultures growing up, which led to my huge love for great food. Food is love and it has this great ability to bring people together in so many amazing ways. It allows you to create beautiful memories that you will forever cherish. I enjoy helping new restaurants expand their marketing on social media. Nowadays, it’s all about the number of followers you have, but there are so many underrated places and hidden gems that don’t get the respect they deserve all because of their following.
Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
One of my all-time favorite books is “You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” by Jen Sincero. It’s such a great read and highly motivating for people on many different journeys. One of my favorite apps is Planoly, it allows you to upload pictures and essentially plan out your feed for Instagram. This is crucial for me, with having a busy schedule it allows me to have a game plan for the week ahead. I haven’t tried this part out yet but it even allows you to schedule the app to post for you with a caption that you’ve already prepared. It’s a great idea for the planners out there like myself. Two of my favorite motivational pages to follow are @garyvee and @tinybuddhaofficial. Some days, you just need a great reminder that it’s ok to have a bad day, just pick yourself back up and keep going. I highly recommend them both!
Contact Info:
- Email: bvsdphotos@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sdfoodbae/
Image Credit:
Brittany Vanella
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