Meet Tamar Kasparian | Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Tamar, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from Los Angeles, CA specifically the San Fernando Valley – proud Valley girl. While that may come with a stigma, I truly believe it has helped shaped me into the person I am today. I grew up in a predominantly Latino community and being surrounded by such hard working people is both inspiring and admirable.
Not to mention, I was raised by two very hard working parents who were supportive and who showed me what sacrifice looks like. My dad was a Foreman for an electrical company traveling across Southern California frequently and my mom worked for an Insurance Company while holding down the fort driving 40+ miles each way on a daily basis. They were dedicated to provide us with a safe and great childhood. That taught me that there is no limit to the hard work and sacrifice it takes to do what’s right for you and your family all while doing something you enjoy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
These days I’m finding myself finally catching up on personal projects I’ve had in the works for years. Life has gotten in the way and I have simply put them off for far too long but I’m excited and inspired by these images once again. I am also currently in the process of planning my annual Mother’s Day Event where I offer Mini Portrait Sessions and bring in other amazing vendors for the opportunity to shop small for Mother’s Day. Lastly, I am continuously working to build my portfolio and take it to the next level. My goal this year is to elevate my work and really showcase what I am capable of creating as well as my skill level. I’m manifesting more fashion editorial features this year in large, highly credited global fashion magazines, looking to get more into the commercial world and simply create work I am proud of.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh man, that’s a tough one. There is so much to do and see in LA it’s hard to narrow it down but I would start by asking them what they are interested in doing or seeing to get a feel for what they like. It also depends if it’s their first time in LA or not. I feel as though first timers in any new location must do all the touristy things to get those out of the way but local spots are highly encouraged as well so you get to see the best of both worlds. With that said, besides the tourist attractions, I would take them to experience a fun speakeasy, a museum

like The Broad or LACMA, my favorite beach, Will Rogers, a pop up bar experience like BeetleHouse, and so on. We would most definitely have a Disneyland day and I would absolutely take them to a Dodgers game if it’s baseball season. Like I said, there’s so much to do in LA. I would also take them to my fave local eatery spots as well one of which being Salsa and Beer in the San Fernando Valley. Sushi is a must as well and thankfully there are so many great sushi restaurants in the Valley. We would paint the town red and experience life through my eyes.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Let me start by saying, I don’t think I would be where I’m at without the love and support of my friends and family. There are so many people in my life who have attributed to my success thus far, too many to name but I will begin with my mom. She was supportive from the start and while she may not have completely understood what it is exactly that I wanted to do with a career in Photography, she stood by my side and supported me through the process. And for that, I am forever grateful.

There are so many friends both in and outside of the photo world who have been extremely supportive. These people have been there for me either through hiring me to photograph their portraits/events, had in-depth conversations about my work or photography in general, have inspired me in some way shape or form, helped me problem solve, volunteered their time to help me on set or behind the scenes, and so much more. I am forever grateful for these lifelong friendships and the kind of support they have and continue to provide for me. Gizelle, Dalila, Allen, Lourdes, Tony, Crystal, Danny, Maris, George, Angelica, Arlene…just to name a few. And of course, my sister, Maral. Thank you for all that you have done for me. I appreciate you all more than you know.

Last but not least, to my dad who has been an inspiration even though he is no longer with us, thank you. Thank you for being my guardian angel and my motivation to follow my dreams just like you did. Fly free.

Website: tamarkasparian.com

Instagram: @tamarkasparian

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/tamarkasparian

Other: Portrait Website & IG: www.portrait.tamarkasparian.com @tamarkasparianportraits

Image Credits
Halston Van Atta, Tonahuac Estrada-Rodriguez, Alexa Ponciano, Kendel LeGore