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Rising Stars: Meet Irina Mak of San Diego

Today we’d like to introduce you to Irina Mak.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been interested in photography, but it felt out of reach. I worked in another field and never had the chance to truly do what I loved. It wasn’t until my husband gifted me my first camera that I wanted to do photography more than ever. Initially, I focused on learning how to use it, practicing on kids and friends. I took a ton of classes and experimented with my brand and style, and it’s been evolving. Being a creative person, preparing for each photo session with props and décor inspired me to explore more photography, experiment with different scenes and backgrounds, and dive into learning studio lighting. Behind my success is not just my own hard work, but also my family, the community of friends and supporters who stood by me.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been a mostly smooth road. From my experience, I’ve only had a few difficult customers. The slow seasons aren’t much fun, but during that time I just take more photography courses.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a family photographer specializing in natural, candid imagery that captures the authentic heart of family life. I focus on lifestyle, women photography—capturing the joyful, and genuine moments that make every family unique. Ans women’s portrait that embrace their unique beauty.
Stress-Free Client Experience: Parents often dread picture day. I am known for creating a calm, fun environment where parents can actually relax, enjoy the time with their kids, and trust that the magic is being captured.
Empowering Women’s Storytelling: Women spend so much time behind the scenes or taking care of everyone else. I am known for guiding women through flattering, natural poses and lighting that celebrate their strength, beauty, and individuality.
I am most proud of changing how my clients see themselves. There is nothing better than handing over a gallery and hearing a woman say, “I haven’t felt this beautiful in years”. Or see how most of my clients use my photo as their profile one.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
To get a toddler to stop saying “cheese” or to help a woman shake off the anxiety of being in front of the lens, I lose all my pride. You’ll find me making absurd animal sounds, dropping terrible dad jokes, doing impromptu dance moves, or making a complete fool of myself to replace fake smiles with genuine, tear-inducing laughter.

Pricing:

  • Mini sessions $250
  • 1 hour $380
  • 1.5 hour $450

Contact Info:

 

A woman with long hair and plaid shirt stands near a white fence, facing a brown horse outdoors during sunset.

Young girl wearing a wide-brimmed hat leaning on a wooden fence outdoors, smiling, with trees and sky in background.

Young woman with long wavy hair wearing a wide-brimmed hat and light dress outdoors, smiling at camera.

Woman with two children sitting on a yellow blanket outdoors, smiling, with a curtain and trees in the background.

Two people kissing outdoors with sunlight behind them, one with short dark hair and the other with curly red hair, embracing.

Family of four walking on beach, children running ahead, pier in background, bright sunny day, shadows on sand.

Pregnant woman in a white dress standing barefoot on the beach, holding her belly, with ocean and pier in background.

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