We had the good fortune of connecting with Taraneh Tajdini and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Taraneh, how do you think about risk?
It is interesting because as a self-taught photographer, every shoot I have ever been a part of since I was young has been a risk. Art has always been something very personal to me, so I never thought that I could pursue it professionally. However, putting my work out there for people to appreciate or critique was necessary for me to realize: the art I make is important and worthy of being seen. I go into every photoshoot knowing mistakes are bound to happen and to not assume everything will go to plan, so I have taught myself to appreciate every risk I take to get the shot we need. Those risky moments are when I end up getting the best photos, and the memories attached to them are so valuable for me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I had a photoshoot a couple of weeks ago, and in the middle of the shoot, I showed my model some of the pictures to get her excited and get her opinion. She looked at me with a shocked facial expression and explained how every other photographer she has experienced never let her look at the RAW photos mid-shoot. I’d like to think what sets me apart is I approach my creative endeavors welcoming collaboration and encouraging emotion of all forms. Too many times I have experienced the ego of others get in the way of the deep potential of a photoshoot or music video. I want every person a part of my team to feel welcomed and encouraged to feel like the bad bitch they are.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in Orange County, so I would definitely be at the beach the entire time with my best friend. If said person was up for it, I would wake up for sunrise and take a stroll along one of the beautiful parks by the beach in Laguna. Breakfast at a local coffee shop is a must, as well as visiting a book store to buy some cheap used books. I am a charcuterie board conessedu8ir, so I would love to take someone visiting California for a little picnic while watching the sunset!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I accredit a lot of my drive and motivation to my dear friends: Rumsha, Rehma, and Elise. I have seen these women persevere in their personal life and career all through the hard work they put into their craft every single day. It is a gift to be around people who influence and encourage you to be at your best. I am so grateful to have a team made up of my best friends who can work together and accomplish beautiful things.

Website: https://www.taratajdini.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plainntart

Image Credits
All photos taken by me

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.