Meet Melody Olivas | Photographer + Creative Director

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

Hi Melody, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was rooted in my passion for creativity and storytelling, combined with a desire to help brands stand out in a crowded digital space. After years of honing my skills in photography, videography, and content creation, I realized there was a unique opportunity to create; that not only captures a brand’s essence but also drives growth. Moving to LA felt like the next leap for me as a creative, even though I knew I’d be a little fish in a big pond. But that’s exactly what pushed me to dive in and make a name for myself. It’s been a journey of growth, constantly learning, and finding my space in an ever-evolving industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am always on the go for the next shoot; currently work with both small and big brands across beauty, fashion, and beverage, helping them craft unique narratives through compelling content. I’m also passionate about capturing love stories from all around the world, which allows me to connect even deeper. My approach is “shoot from the hip” — I’m always looking for those in-between moments that truly resonate. Whether it’s through photography, videography, or content creation, my goal is always to create something that authentically connects. I’m most proud of the brand I’ve built, which merges my passions into a space where creativity empowers others. The journey hasn’t been easy—I’ve faced challenges like imposter syndrome and the ever-shifting digital landscape. But through perseverance and a focus on adaptability, I’ve learned that self-confidence and constant evolution are essential to staying aligned. Ultimately, my work is all about authenticity, creativity, and empowerment—and I’m always busy creating and connecting, wondering what’s next.

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 would drive anywhere up and down the PCH—I absolutely love doing that in my free time. I just pack a bag for the beach, bring some lunch, and I never fail to spot dolphins along the way.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I credit my success to gratitude. Embracing gratitude has allowed me to stay grounded, appreciate every opportunity, and learn from every challenge. It’s been the driving force behind my creativity and resilience, motivating me to keep pushing forward and give my best to every project. A huge thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey from the start — whether it was through encouragement, collaboration, or just believing in me. Your support has meant everything and has played a big part in getting me to where I am today.

Website: https://heymelody.xyz

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melodyolivas

Other: https://melodyolivas.com