Today we’d like to introduce you to Masha Skolburg.
Hi Masha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in a family of artists. My mom was a touring ballerina with Russian ballet and my dad was an artist who painted churches and monasteries in Ukraine. My dad taught me how to view color and light as well as the elements of composition, and from my mom I learned the gracefulness of a woman, the posture, the expression of movement. Even though I cannot draw a picture, nor can I professionally dance, I use the knowledge I gained from my parents in my art and photography today.
My photography journey begun around ten years ago in Poland where I used to live. My boyfriend saw my interest in photography and gifted me an expensive professional camera. I had no idea how to use it and thought it was embarrassing having such a great camera and only use auto settings. From that moment, I learned all the insides of my camera by myself. I watched tons of videos, read a lot of books on composition, creativity, technical parts.
Later, I moved to California and would continue learning photography by attending workshops and learning from the best photographers in the world. A year later, I started my full-time wedding photography business and ran it for about seven years. The wedding business was very profitable and successful but there was something missing for me personally, I didnt feel fulfilled.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One day I got a call from a woman who wanted me to take portraits of her. She told me her life story and I knew that the photo session was going to be very special for her. Portraiture was not my expertise at the time, but during that session, I knew I found my true calling. I watched her transform from shy and insecure into a confident woman who opened up and was able to see her beauty from the inside. Seeing her reaction at the photo reveal later, the tears of joy, and how much that photo session meant to her was The greatest gift I could give to someone. Almost three years ago, we moved to Florida (Wesley Chapel) and I opened my photography business here, where my main focus is on Contemporary Glamour Sessions, Headshots and Branding. Since that time, I have photographed many women; every single one has a personal story, goes through something in life and I know these photo sessions are very empowering for them.
Has my business was a smooth road? No. It is hard work, every single day. It is not easy to start a new business at a brand new area. and to build clientele. But perseverance and determination is the key. It’s like a flower that you need to water in order for it to grow. And once it grows, it’s the best accomplishment you can feel!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My main focus in photography is contemporary feminine portraits, headshots and branding. I think I’m most known for my Beauty/Glamour sessions. I think I am most proud of starting a photography business twice, each time at a different state, and both being successful. It is not easy to start in a competitive market, but with passion and love to what you do it is absolutely doable and to watch your business grow gives you an incredible sense of accomplishment and excitement. I’m also very proud of the relationships I built with my clients, the connection and friendship we have with them.
What sets you apart from others?
I honestly don’t know how others do it. Every photographer has something that draws their clientele to them. I do believe in a connection. Your client will find you and will connect with you. I am always very honest with my clients, I provide great customer service, I’m very personable with them and I deliver quality.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I love my life. I love what I do and I believe I have one of the best jobs in the world. Photography took me all over the world, thanks to photography, I met incredible people, built lifetime friendships, gained incredible knowledge and I am able to grow and be creative. I lived in different countries, and I have experienced different levels of life. I am incredibly grateful for everything I have and for the place I live in. This is what makes me happy.
Contact Info:
- Email: Info@masharay.com
- Website: www.masharay.com
- Instagram: @masharayportraits
- Facebook: Masha Ray Portraits
