Today we’d like to introduce you to Valentina Li
Valentina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Valentina Li, and I was born in Uzbekistan. I graduated from college as a master of ceramics, but in 2011, I embarked on my photography journey as an amateur. Being self-taught, I began by capturing weddings and various events, working as a photographer during weekends and evenings while maintaining my primary job as a digital designer. In 2014, my son and I relocated to Russia, where I unfortunately couldn’t continue my photography work. In 2019, I moved to South Korea, again not pursuing photography, which led to a significant break from the craft. In 2020, I got married and moved to the United States, where I resumed my photography career in 2021. I had to relearn many aspects of the field, as much had changed since 2014. In 2023, I became a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston and the Professional Photographers of America, which has greatly contributed to my professional growth. I am truly grateful to be in the USA, as I feel I have far more opportunities here than in any other country I’ve lived in.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I wouldn’t describe my journey as entirely smooth, largely due to all the relocations I experienced. For a long time, I struggled to afford quality camera equipment, and I found it challenging to dedicate time to learning and practicing. Until recently, I also lacked a strong support system.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a professional portrait photographer. I’m know for my unique portrait fashion photography style. I really love to photograph women and help them to feel beautiful and comfortable in front of the camera. I’m good in posing people and make them feel confident in front of the camera. I’m proud of myself because I’ve been very good at adapting to many different situations in life and this helps me in photographing many different subjects and styles. And I’m proud of myself that i never give up and that’s the reason I always get what I want from my work. I’ve got 2 awards for my photos in our professional photographers Guild of Houston and I’ve been chosen to get published in special edition of European magazine
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’m Korean, was born in Uzbekistan and speak Russian. Also I just turned 40. 😊
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.viajestudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsphoto.tx?igsh=dmpsbWhwcnVpanc4
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19Ws2fwLLa/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Valentina Li
