Photographer: Honest. Dedicated. Motivator.
Some time ago, I met Maria via Wee Chic and Girlhero Shop's Owner, Bridget, in Timonium, MD. She was existing in her photographer boss-ness, and I was in my MRM element elevating faces and making new connections. Fast forward, and Maria reached out to see if we could collaborate on some upcoming projects. Heck, yeah...I was all in!
“If I hadn’t taken [several] leaps in my business that scared me, I probably wouldn’t be where I am." - Maria Ortiz
I had the privilege of elevating the natural beauty of Maria's shoot model, Halle. She was the sweetest and a natural in front of the camera. Maria's work is impeccable, and I am looking forward to seeing more of her work and collaborating on some special projects. Whatever it is that you are passionate about, go on ahead and pursue it! Ya' just might surprise yourself!
We asked Maria our Signature Spotlight questions and this is what she had to say!
LBDSAW: Choose 3 words to describe yourself.
MARIA: Honest, Dedicated, Motivator
LBDSAW: How would you describe your personal style?
MARIA: Hmm, I love to mix it up a ton and have mostly a casual style, but I do love to dress up every now and then. Loose flowy pants and blazers are my jam and I think shoes are what will make or break your outfit.
LBDSAW: If you are a salad lover, tell us what you'd have in your Signature Salad.
MARIA: Ok, I’d have a mix of fresh and cooked greens, sweet potatoes, toasted pine nuts, berries, feta cheese and the dressing has an Asian flair.
LBDSAW: If you are a wine lover, do you prefer red or white?
MARIA: Definitely white wine lover.
LBDSAW: If you were to create a signature cocktail, what would be in it (with or without alcohol works)?
MARIA: My signature cocktail would have an amaretto base with lime, cherries, pomegranate juice and passion fruit juice! YUM! (Going to make that now)
LBDSAW: Where is your favorite place to dine?
MARIA: As of recently, Del Mar at the Wharf in DC.
LBDSAW: What travel destination has been your favorite?
MARIA: Arles in the South of France
LBDSAW: Where haven't you been that you'd like to explore?
MARIA: New Zealand
LBDSAW: What makes you feel the happiest? (Not a person)
MARIA: When I am at the beach watching the sunrise early in the morning.
LBDSAW: What do you enjoy most about being a Photographer?
MARIA: What I enjoy the most about being a photographer is that I get to meet fabulous people and know their story. I have the opportunity to empower them through the experience I provide and the photos I create that truly captures their personality.
LBDSAW: What advice would you give to someone pursuing their passion & purpose?
MARIA: The advice I would give someone pursuing their passion/purpose is to just take the leap! Think of what’s the worst that could happen? Exactly, not the end of the world and you’ll learn from every experience. If I hadn’t taken [several] leaps in my business that scared me, I probably wouldn’t be where I am.
LBDSAW: What's next for you?
MARIA: I love to help others. I am passionate about motivating and empowering other photographers that are just starting out, so I am currently working on creating on providing 1:1 mentoring/coaching sessions and at the same time, I am developing an online course.
LBDSAW: How can folks follow your journey?
MARIA: www.mariaortizphotography.com and on IG www.instagram.com/mariaortizphotography
LBDSAW: Thanks, Maria! We'll be following! - MRM
Follow us on Instagram @lbdsaladsandwine to experience more of each story.