February 3, 2020

Conversations with the Inspiring Zia Oldfield

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zia Oldfield.

Zia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
When I was a kid, I would see things that were visually pleasing, square out my fingers, and think, “picture perfect.” I don’t know how old I was when I started doing that, it’s just always kind of been there. I loved the way certain colors looked with each other and how great it was when the lighting was hitting the subject just right. Art is everywhere and in everything. Music, yoga, conversation, painting, etc. It makes life just a little more interesting and a lot more tolerable.

So, it only made sense that I follow what makes me happy, right? In 2018, I finally decided to start taking my photography seriously. I had no idea what I was doing and I still don’t, to be completely honest. I just knew I wanted to do art for a living. So I started learning the industry and how to run a business, all of which was/is overwhelming, but I persevered. I started getting more and more inquiries, and back then, I took everything and anything, but somewhere after last year’s wedding season, I realized that taking on every job that came my way wasn’t as great as I thought it would be. I started pursuing my art for a reason and this wasn’t it.

So, I figured out a way to combine more of my interests together and make a brand for myself. I started blogging more and speaking more freely on my personal Instagram. I talk about the environment, plant-based eating, my toddler, zero-waste living, my spirituality, astrology… whatever feels right. I have an interesting life and upbringing, being the youngest of 18 children, and I want to be able to embrace it and be as open as possible. I’m hoping to write a book in the next few years and I sort of use my Instagram like a platform for that. As for my photography business, I am being very selective to what I take on at this time. I’m still searching for my niche in the industry and am currently enjoying having the freedom to take on any projects that speak to me.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Some seasons are smoother than others. I think we all have our own inner peak seasons. For me, owning a business means complete freedom to be and do whatever I please. I feel like taking the time and doing the work to get to know and learn to love myself, really pays off. Being your authentic self in business is what sets you apart from the rest. It’s also a hell of a lot more rewarding, too.

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My goal in life and in the workplace is to live authentically. I want to be remembered as someone who can make you laugh, even on the worst of days. I believe in having integrity and treating everyone as equals because I truly believe from the core of my being that we are all connected and the good deed of one has a ripple effect. I think all of that kinda sets me apart from others in the photography industry.

What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
Trying to do it all. That’s a huge obstacle. First, I am a mother and a wife, then I am a photographer and business owner. I’ve had to learn to properly prioritize the things in my life to make sure I am not setting myself up for future failure.

Contact Info:

Website: www.ziaoldfield.com
Email: ziaoldfield@gmail.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ziamei
Facebook: www.facebook.com/oldfieldphotography

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.