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

Hi Marlaina, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
In my life and career as a photographer and skydiver, embracing risk has been a defining factor. Whether it’s leaping out of an airplane or capturing unique moments behind the lens, it all boils down to having the courage to step into the unknown. I’ve learned that taking risks, whether in dealing with the unpredictability of social situations or adapting to the fast-paced photography market, is about expressing oneself authentically and boldly.

What I’ve found is that allowing room for experimentation and making occasional mistakes has propelled my creative journey forward. My advice on navigating risks is to strike a balance between intuition and logic. Don’t solely rely on one or the other; instead, let them work in harmony to guide your decisions and actions.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey in the world of photography has been quite serendipitous. It all began when I found joy in capturing moments through my lens, not with any grand career plan in mind. People started noticing my work and began asking me to take pictures for them. Before I knew it, I found myself traveling to incredible places like Las Vegas, Florida, Nantucket, Washington DC, and Houston, Texas, among others, to create visual stories.

What sets me apart, I believe, is my unwavering dedication to taking each opportunity seriously. Prior to every shoot, I take a moment to deeply understand my clients and their desired image. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about helping them convey their essence. I firmly believe that the energy and connection I bring to each session are just as crucial as the technical work I do during editing.

The path to where I am today wasn’t necessarily easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. Challenges were part of the journey, and I overcame them by staying committed to my craft and continuously learning. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned along the way is the power of persistence and adaptability in an ever-evolving field.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m not just a photographer; I’m a storyteller. Through my work, I aim to capture the unique essence of each individual or moment and bring it to life. Photography is more than just a profession; it’s a passion that allows me to connect with people and the world in a profound way.

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?
It might be my adventurous spirit from skydiving, but I have a genuine affinity for shooting at lookouts. There’s something truly captivating about the perspective you gain from a high vantage point. Even when I’m traveling to different places, I often catch myself on Google Maps, typing in ‘lookouts,’ eager to discover those breathtaking views that inspire my photography. Costa Rica, Cancun and the Dominican.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this artical and shoutout to owner of Cleveland Skydiving Center, Marcie Hall.

Website: GrinGallery.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gringallery?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlaina-pacifico-1762755b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrinGalleryPhotography?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@marlainapacifico?_t=8gLLI6r242U&_r=1

Image Credits
Marlaina Pacifico of GrinGallery Photography

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