Meet Trailblazer Bryanna Amaya

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryanna Amaya.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started running my business as a 19-year-old about a year ago. I took a chance on myself and decided to drop out of college two semesters in. Not only was this a very scary decision, but it took a toll on my family life. As a 19-year-old, this was very scary. I have an incredible bond with my family but dropping out of college really affected them and my life. I knew that from the beginning, I was letting go of stability for my future. However, I knew that college was not for me. I truly tried, however, I continued to find myself wondering what would it be like if I just let go of this future that others see for me, and go out and find my own future. Photography was always in the back of my mind. Never considering the fact that it could become my business. Fast forward 1 year. Here I am, running my business as a 20-year-old and loving every minute of it. Capturing love is something else. Seriously… I am in love with capturing love and meeting new people. It is my passion and I feel really lucky that I can also call it my career.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been a smooth road. There are always going to be bumps or roadblocks along the way. Running your own business is a whole different ball game. I went from going to school, having a part-time job, having people tell me what to do… to doing everything myself. I taught myself how to become more organized and responsible. Being so young and running your own business is nerve-racking. There has been a lot of tears, frustration, and self-doubt. But do not give up. I promise you, it IS worth it. Prove those who doubted you wrong. Prove yourself wrong. That self-doubt? Kick it to the curb. You are good enough and you can do this. Also, STOP comparing yourself.

Focus on YOU. Sometimes, we have a tendency to compare our journeys with other business owners or just other individuals. We can thank social media for that. But don’t look at other people and wish that was you. Or wonder “why can’t I be as good as them?” don’t do that. Trust me. You are on your OWN path and that is perfectly okay. Make your own goals and achieve them. You got this.

We’d love to hear more about Bry’s Photography.
I am a wedding photographer based in California. I shoot couples who are in love. I shoot those adventurous souls that want to elope by the beach or in the desert. I love exploring, hiking, road trips, camping. If my couples ask me to travel with them, take a 7-mile hike, go camping with them… whatever adventure speaks to them, I am always down.

I love becoming BFFS with my couples and clients. I love getting to know them and showing them that we are all just human and it is okay if your wedding day is not ‘perfect’. I love going with the flow, rolling with the punches. I have learned that no matter what life throws at you, everything always works out in the end.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
Social media. Personally, I have found Instagram to be the biggest platform for bookings and finding other helpful advice. I have made a LOT of friends through Instagram and learned a lot. Also, if you seek a mentor, don’t hesitate to reach out to other people on social media. I have found most business owners to be kind and share some knowledge for you! Sometimes, they even have emails with newsletters with advice! Just do a ton of research and ask around.

I have also heard of Pinterest being very helpful. I have yet to get bookings from Pinterest, however, I do know that it works.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.brysphotography.com
• Email: bryannaphoto@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brysphotography_/

Image Credit:
Brys Photography

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