Today we’d like to introduce you to Vira Aguirre.
Hi Vira, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As an immigrant and someone who grew up in Ukraine with limited opportunities, moving to United States was one of the scariest and the best things I have ever done in my life. I have always been passionate about photography, modeling, acting. As a matter of fact I once wanted to become a model or actress myself. Ironically, being a Product Photographer I sometimes model and act in front of the camera, so in a way my dream came true in the most fabulous way.
While living in Texas and being bored out of my mind, I picked up a camera and started creating again. This was back in 2019. Slowly but surely I started working with different brands: food, clothes, skincare etc. and creating content for them to use to market their businesses. Only in 2021 I realized the potential and the demand for the type of photography I did so I did a thing and started a business.
The transition between 9-5 job and fully committing to Photography did not come easy. We all want to feel safe and set, but as someone said once “who does not risk, does not drink champagne”. Meaning the best and greatest things come when you step outside of your comfort zone and follow your heart.
I am not the one who gives up easily, because if that was the case I would not be here now.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There were definitely many many struggles, but in any road, in any paths you choose there will be hard times. It is natural order of things and how you get better and become the best version of YOU!
I will say my personal biggest challenge was securing visa to United States, I worked towards it for long two years. I faced many rejections from employers in USA as without a job being secured the Embassy in Ukraine would not approve the visa back then. During that time I thought I had friends, but I realized those people were not my friends at all but only travelers who would teach me a valuable lesson and prepare me for true adulthood. What I mean by it is leaving my home, family and everything I knew and starting completely from scratch all on my own. When I finally got the visa I almost could not believe it.
Ever since I look at challenges as part of the process, time you just have to pass thru in order to get to your destination.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I do what’s called Product Photography, it is it’s own niche of Photography and it is not the same as wedding photography, family or portraits. I work mostly with skincare and beauty brands, and sometimes I will get amazing fun opportunities to work with lifestyle brands. For example I shot for Arm & Hammer baking soda, or created a full creative campaign for Vayose shower filters, or worked on a video for Vicks sinus inhaler where I scouted the talent, location, created a script, filmed and edited it all in a final video that will be displayed on their website. And this is what I actually known for, providing Full Production Service. Imagine having a whole production team in just one person. And that would be me!
The thing that I am the most proud is that I chose the niche and I stick to it. Because when you dedicate most of your time to one thing you will only get better and better. And it definitely shows in my work throughout the last 5 years.
I want to believe that the thing that sets me apart from others is my ability to adapt to any style. While I see that other creators recommend finding your own style, but I see a lot more value in being flexible and being able to tailor my knowledge and skills to a brand’s specific campaign. And that’s what truly beautiful! Some photographers being hired for their colorful style, or moody vibes. I am being hired not because of my style but because I know how to adapt and work outside of the frame.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I would say if you have an idea and you itching to try it, either it’s photography, modeling, cooking, art, writing or what ever it may be – DO IT!!! It’s better to regret something you tried than regret not doing anything! And my absolute favourite saying – if you never try, you will never know!
Pricing:
- Shoots start at $850
Contact Info:
- Website: https://catinthesoupstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catinthesoupstudio/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vira-aguirre-b47088319/
