Meet Karina Zamora of r + r photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Zamora.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Karina. So, let’s start at the beginning, and we can move on from there.
I’m going to be honest, when I first started photography I was doing it for just close family and friends- and I wasn’t very good. I was constantly second-guessing my work and even telling people to not disclose who their photographer was- I just couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong. Starting out I just thought I would magically become talented overnight, WRONG!

Photography is art, yes, but it’s also something you need to work at and grow with- once I realized this I started taking advantage of the many free online resources and tutorials or asking my friends that were already in the business.

After research, I invested in a nicer camera and lens- not the best of the best but nice enough to help give me the end product I was aiming for, and I should preface this by saying you can have the most expensive equipment in the world, but it won’t do you any good unless you know how to work it. From there, I started practicing on the most talented model I could find- my newborn!

This was honestly the turning point for my little hobby; it’s when I went from liking photography to loving it. I was capturing some of my most cherished moments, and I realized I wanted to be able to do that for anyone that would let me! I had done a few gigs for some friends, including a couple of weddings- but I got my first break when a friend of a friend saw my work and asked if I can do their engagements/wedding photos… I was absolutely terrified

This was the first time someone would actually be paying for my services, and I had no idea what their expectations were! I decided to take the risk and switch from Karina Zamora: Mom with Camera to Karina Zamora: Photographer. The session went amazingly, and the couple was the best, selfishly it gave me the confidence to keep at it.

I remember rushing home to edit the photos because I was so excited, nearly forgetting I needed to juggle a baby during the process. I knew at this point I was far from where I wanted to be professionally, but it was a step in the right direction and something I wanted to continue doing.

As of today, I’ve established a business and working on its growth- it’s still in its infancy, but I’m so excited to begin this journey. I absolutely love taking authentic and real photos, and I hope that shows in my work- I can’t wait to work with others who value this type of photography as well.

Great, 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 am not tech savvy, no siree- so creating a website was such a headache! I knew I wanted something simple and to the point, but who knew how difficult “simple” would be? So far, struggles include a faulty lens (of course right when I establish the website) and getting my name out there.

There are so many talented photographers just killing the game, it’s such a competitive field- but just from the interactions I’ve had with some of these talents, it’s been nothing but positivity and support.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about r + r photography – what should we know?
I love capturing authentic moments, the moments in between the “posed” looks. I specialize in lifestyle photography, those moments at home when you’re laying in bed with your newborn or hanging out on the couch with your spouse or family- I even love capturing moments between you and your pet. I’m available for newborn, family, couples, maternity, and intimate gathering photography!

As a new brand, I want to provide a simple transaction with fair prices and beautiful photos we can both be proud of. For all future clients, I know being in front of a camera can be awkward and uncomfortable but I want to create a friendship that will allow you to let out your adventurous and goofy side show- this is what I hope sets me apart from others!

What were you like growing up?
Awkward. Sometimes funny. I grew up in a small town in southern Arizona, so small that when people ask where I’m from I just say Tucson because trying to explain where and how Elfrida exists is just confusing. I was a tomboy who was attached to my farmer dads hip, especially when he went to work- I learned how to drive a tractor and thought dirt was the best ingredient for my pretend cooking show.

I was obsessed with sports, specifically softball which was my only focus throughout high school. I have a very big family, some of which still reside in Elfrida- I’ll never forget my roots and still enjoy visiting whenever I can. After all, how else is my son going to learn how to drive a tractor?

Pricing:

• Couples/Engagement/Maternity- $150 (does not include travel fee outside of 50 miles)
• Newborns/Littles- $150 (does not include travel fee outside of 50 miles)
• Families- $200 (does not include travel fee outside of 50 miles)
• Elopements/Intimate gatherings- $750 (does not include travel fee outside of 50 miles)

 

 

Contact Info:

• Website: remyandrinaphotography.com
• Email: randrphotograph@gmail.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/karinajzamora
• Facebook: facebook.com/karina.zamora1515

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.