Meet Hilda Centeno | Owner/Photographer of Centeno Portraits

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

Hi Hilda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After experiencing a lot of loss and sickness during Covid, my priorities shifted tremendously. On November 30th, 2020, I resigned my position as a Studio Manager for a very well known photography company that catered to high profile clientele. I gave my blood, sweat and tears to that job. I was working for a company that was only interested in making money, not contributing to the good of humanity. It wasn’t about ‘making the biggest sale’ anymore, it was about creating art that would inspire others to keep living with love and light during troubling times. I was angry, sad, disappointed, enraged but at the same time hopeful and motivated to make a change in my life. The only way I could fulfill my purpose as an artist was to take a risk. NO FEAR. On the same day I resigned, I decided to begin my journey with my own photography business. I messaged 3 of my friends on Facebook and Instagram and created two mini Christmas setups at a park in Rancho Cucamonga, CA and created content. I wasn’t doubting myself anymore. I was very confident in my purpose: to make others feel seen, to spread joy and happiness, and to capture people in their beautiful essence. I let go of all the negativity and built Centeno Portraits.

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.
For 18 years, I’ve been capturing all genres: Families, Children, Events, Headshots, Fashion, Lifestyle. I pride myself in having the capability of making adults and children feel comfortable and safe when I’m their photographer. I truly care about making sure my energy is positive and calm so I can project that energy to my clients. Positive mind, body and soul is needed when coming across all sorts of characters and individuals. Every person I come in contact with has a story, and I want to listen and capture the essence of their being and capture the children’s expressions and raw emotions. I am confident in gaining the trust of others and giving them permission to be themselves. That’s how I create beautiful imagery.
Who would’ve thought that a portrait studio mall job would result into being an integral part of my career and experience? I know I didn’t know that at 18 yrs old. I went through many trials and tribulations to get to where I am now. There will always be people that don’t believe in your movement, and that’s ok. All that matters is your belief in yourself and your work. Many people will give you their opinion and criticize you for doing what is “out of the norm”, and that’s ok. Keep creating and collaborating, and your business will surely flourish.
It is necessary to give a piece of your heart to the world in order to get them to understand you and your art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a lover of hidden gems that serve great food! Whenever I get the opportunity to explore while traveling to different destinations for my shoots, I definitely take note of my fave spots!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I’d like to dedicate my shout out to my Pita Mai, my grandmother who inspired me to endure and work hard for my dreams.

Thank you to my two sisters (Emily & Natalie) and my brother-in-law (Mando) for being my supporters when building my business. They believed in my capabilities before I ever believed in myself. I love them very much for praising every milestone but most importantly always giving me reality checks.

Thank you to my five nieces: Vicky, Aubri, Gracie, Sophie, and Maddy.
These girls inspire me to be a better human being and are my FOREVER models!

Thank you to my parents for their hard work, sacrifices, and unconditional love.

Thank you to my Tia Evelyn and Tio Joal for their constant support and praises.

Thank you to Lupe (the big sister I never had) for reassuring me who I am and uplifting me.

Thank you to my best friends: Asyah and Damaris for being beautiful souls and incredible listeners!

I’d also like to thank these individuals & organizations for giving me a start when I asked for their support with my work:
* Yadi Lemus & Yadi’s House Inc: Thank you for being the first person to say ‘yes’ to me without hesitation and supporting me always!
*Loni & Amigas Social Club: Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your beautiful movement of powerful women!
*Melissa & Fit4Moms: Thank you for allowing me to share my work with your beautiful moms and their children!
*Naza & The Mommy Blogger Tribe: Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your beautiful group of strong women!

*Gina Zapanta (ZA Lawyers): Thank you for being an empowering individual and showing me the power I have to achieve my dreams.

And finally, a special thanks to Linda Haskins for being an incredible mentor and role model. Thank you for awakening the artist in me in high school with your beautiful teachings and uplifting soul! I love you.

Instagram: @centenoportraits

Facebook: Centeno Portraits

Other: Tik Tok: @centenoportraits

Image Credits
My Solo Pic – Asyah Symone Client Photos – Centeno Portraits