We had the good fortune of connecting with Tomas Skaringa and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tomas, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business as a wedding photographer resulted from a deep desire to connect with people who are in love and want to celebrate their unique stories. I understood that each couple has a beautiful narrative filled with emotions and moments that deserve to be captured. By stepping into this role, I get to witness these heartfelt connections and immerse myself in their joy and excitement. Every wedding is a new opportunity to hear their stories and translate those emotions through my lens. This process not only boosts my confidence as a creative but also adds significant value for my clients—offering them cherished memories they can keep for a lifetime. There’s something compelling about capturing a moment that will forever hold meaning for my clients. Knowing that I can provide them with images they will cherish for generations fills me with indescribable joy.
Ultimately, my thought process was about creating meaningful connections and providing a service that resonates deeply with people, allowing them to celebrate their love in a way that is uniquely theirs.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a wedding photographer, my creativity flourishes when I connect deeply with my couples, capturing their unique stories and emotions. The most rewarding moments come after I deliver their photos, hearing their incredible feedback, full of joyful emotions as they relive their special day. My journey as a creative wedding photographer has been shaped by consistency, persistence, and a dedication to innovation. I recognize that the path is often challenging, requiring careful attention and the ability to adapt to life’s unexpected changes. Maintaining a positive mindset and a commitment to never give up is essential to navigate these hurdles. I also believe in the power of collaboration, communicating with fellow professionals to support one another in this vibrant industry. I want the world to know that my brand is personalized, creative, and always seeking fresh ideas. My role as a creative leader sets me apart— offering personal attention, uplifting the vibe, and guiding my couples for the best wedding photography experience they will cherish forever. My innovative ideas are inspired by the surrounding atmosphere that allows me to take action and craft unforgettable memories that truly reflect each couple’s essence.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visited the area, I would ensure he would experience the vibrant culture and diverse offerings of Los Angeles. So, the unforgettable trip would look like this:
Day 1: Arrival and Hollywood. In the morning, check into a hotel in Hollywood. I would say Roosevelt since it has so much character and history. For Lunch, I would take him to Musso & Frank Grill, a classic Hollywood eatery. We would walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the afternoon and visit the TCL Chinese Theatre. I would take him to Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and the Hollywood sign in the evening. For dinner, we would go to The Bazaar by Jose Andres, known for its innovative Spanish dishes.
Day 2: Santa Monica and Venice Beach. I would take him to Santa Monica Pier in the morning and get breakfast at The Bungalow. After that, we would rent bikes and ride Venice Beach. For lunch, we would enjoy casual beach vibes at Gjusta in Venice. We would walk along Abbot Kinney Blvd. in the afternoon, explore the shops and quick snack places, and then visit Venice canals. In the evening, we would return to Santa Monica for dinner at Tar & Roses, which has awesome wood-fired dishes. Head to The Bungalow with ocean views at night and enjoy delicious cocktails.
Day 3: Arts and Culture. In the morning, visit the Getty Center for beautiful gardens, art, and views. For lunch, dine at The Grtty’s Cafe. In the afternoon, explore LACMA and the iconic Urban Lights. In the evening, head out to Koreatown for a Korean BBQ dinner at Park’s BBQ. Night, experience the nightlife at the Wiltern or bars along Wilshire Blvd.
Day 4: Downtown LA and Arts District. In the morning start breakfast at Grand Central Market. Then visit The Broad Museum. For lunch eat at Bestia, that has delicious Italian food. Then explore street art in the Arts District and visit local galleries. In the evening dine at Back Mercat for inventive Mediterranean food. At nigh, see a show at The Ace Hotel or hangout on a rooftop bar such as The Rooftop at The Standard.
Day 5: Disneyland Adventure. Spend all day at the Disneyland from early morning to late night. Enjoying the dining experiencer at the park and in the evening watch fireworks
Day 6: Malibu and Beaches. In the morning get breakfast at the Malibu Fam on the pier. Then head to either Malibu Beach or Point Dume State beach to relax. For lunch eat at a fancy place called Nobu Malibu. After eating head to Getty Villa, to see their beautiful gardens and art. In the evening, dine at Moonshadows that has a fabulous ocean view. After dinner enjoy a bonfire on the beach or go back to hotel.
Day 7: Shop and Depart: In the morning take breakfast at the Griddle Cafe in West Hollywood. After that go shopping to Rodeo Drive or The Grove. In the afternoon if time allows visit Los Angeles County Museum of art and then head to the Airport for departure.
I think the most exciting places to visit would be Griffith Park Observatory, The Getty Center and Disneyland.
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 would like to shout to the incredible videographer duo Richard & Tracy at www.royalfilms.net
and to my beloved wife, Agne Skaringa, who runs the Halloween Makeup Hollywood organization and makes these events even more special. www.halloweenmakeuphollywood.com
Website: https://www.thebigaffair.com
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