Meet April Espinoza | Photographer & Cyclist

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

Hi April, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Every photographer has their own unique reasons for doing what they do. As someone who has never been photogenic, I know exactly what it feels like to look at a “bad” photo of yourself and absolutely hate it. I understand how much a bad photo can bring down one’s self-esteem and confidence. As a portrait photographer, I connect with my clients by making sure I create a positive photoshoot experience, ensuring they love their photos throughout the session. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where my clients can be themselves and feel good. When I deliver photos they love, I know I have done my part…that client might carry on with their day with their head held a little higher and just a little more confidence.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
There’s no shortage of amazing photographer in Los Angeles. As I continue to practice and fine tune my craft, I believe that what sets me apart is who I am as a person. I feel a special connection to my clients that are young women. I know all to well the struggles and challenges we face as we navigate through this world. Understanding this helps me to make others feel comfortable in front of the camera. My photoshoots often feel like a girls day/night out and are always so fun. Even when it’s a family session or a young couple in love, I always walk away feeling good about the photos all while having fun.

There has been several challenges and constant self-doubt. I started photography in my early thirties, while I wasn’t afraid to start late and start over, I didn’t quite anticipate the learning curve it would be to run a small photography business. There’s always something new to learn and something different to keep up with. When it gets overwhelming, I just tell myself to keep on keeping on. At the end of the day, having this small business that I started from the ground up has been very rewarding. I take a lot of pride knowing that I am a self-taught photographer who literally started with nothing. Anyway is possible when you put your mind to it. Will it be easy? Nope. Will it be worth it? Absolutely.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ooh what a fun question! I’d break up the week by city/area, here’s an example of an itinerary:

Monday – South Bay – beach workout + acai bowls from Paradise Bowls in Hermosa, dinner at a Food Truck on Crenshaw!
Tuesday – long bike ride to Long Beach perhaps? Happy Hour at Boat House 🙂
Wednesday – breakfast in Redondo – Phanny’s or Eat at Joes, shopping at Del Amo, dinner somewhere new (guest’s choice)!
Thursday – long hike maybe in the Santa Monica Mountains or Mt. Baldy
Friday – In n out + Observatory
Saturday – ??
Sunday – ??

I just moved back to Cali (from MT) so I still getting acquainted with everything 🙂

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 wouldn’t have taken the first step in my creative career if it wasn’t for the love and support from friends and family. Having strong support system is key!

Website: www.aprilespinozamedia.com

Instagram: @aprilespinozaphoto

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/aprilespi

Image Credits
All photos taken by me, including the self-portrait. 🙂