Inspiring Conversations with Michelle Guzman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Guzman.

Hi Michelle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was five, I was basically distraught because I didn’t know how to use a camera. Another student had brought one to school for show and tell and I thought it was amazing. I had no idea then that photography and video would become my career.

My interest in photography and video started when I saw my dad taking photos. He introduced different types of technology to me. My mom is incredibly creative and inspired my sisters and I to create everything from crafts to food to skits and so much more. They gave us the tools and encouragement to try so many things. Being homeschooled opened countless doors. When I was a teenager, I volunteered at my church by creating and producing photos and videos. I laugh now at how tightly I gripped those cameras so I wouldn’t drop them.

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?
I love working in so many creative and technical areas, from tv production to web design. It can be difficult to really grow in one area when you want to do it all. Recently, I made myself try to focus on just photography and video production. You have no idea how hard this is for me! But I’ve already noticed that it’s helping.

I also really struggled with promoting my business. I didn’t want to come across as too salesy and would be really shy to tell anyone that I was a professional photographer. This obviously doesn’t work if you want to have a successful business. While I still struggle with self-promotion, I’m happy to say that I’m learning to be better at this.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
For me, it isn’t ever just a business transaction. I love people and want to genuinely connect with everyone I work with. I think that’s what sets me apart. I jump right in with people and have been told countless times that I have a big personality and I’m hard to forget. I hope it’s meant as a compliment because I’m taking it as such. I love to laugh and have fun with my clients and it’s so important for me that they leave a session or meeting with me feeling like we’ve brightened each others’ day.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people are surprised when they learn that I’m Puerto Rican and speak Spanish. Being able to communicate in Spanish and English has definitely helped me during some photoshoots and tv productions. I joke around and tell people to be careful what they say about me in Spanish (bochinche) because I can understand them. They laugh and that’s a great time for me to take a photo of them.

Pricing:

• $225 – Headshot Photography
• $325 – Short and Sweet Photography
• $450 – Classic Photography
• $650 – Branding Photography
• $900+ – Video

Contact Info:

• Email: hello@michelleguzman.com
• Website: http://michelleguzman.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleiguzman
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelleguzmanphotographer