Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristina Maness
Hi Kristina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
HELLLLO! My name is Kristina Maness and I’m the CEO and photographer for Kristina Maness Photography. I specialize in creative branding photography for female entreprenuers who understand the importance of showing up online. I have always had a love for photography, ever since I was little. I received my first camera from my mother when I was 16 years old. I never thought photography could be pursued as a legitimate career (boy, was I wrong.) I graduated college from USF majoring in Entrepreneurship. I always knew I wanted to start my own business, I just had to figure out which business. Having no idea what to do once I graduated college, I did what any young student would do, I quit both my jobs and traveled to Europe for six weeks. Those six weeks changed my entire outlook on life. I knew I was meant for more and I knew there was so much this world had to offer. Unfortunately, I came home broke and needed a job quick. LOL. I figured the safest bet was to enter the corporate world and get a job with all the bells and whistles. You know, what everyone tells you “you’re supposed to do.” After two years, I quickly realized this wasn’t where my heart was and I left my job. It was scary to leave the security of a job that paid well and start from scratch. But, I knew if I didn’t take the entreprenuerial plunge, now, I would live a life of regret. So, I decided to pick up my camera and learn everything there was to know. Fast forward to today and my business is growing and thriving more than I ever could’ve imagined. I quickly learned what set me soul fire and what I was truly passionate about. And that is helping other women excude confidence through each of their branding images.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Ha, is there any smooth road in life? I think if it were a smooth road, it wouldn’t be a business. If you’re taking the appropriate risks, there will be speed bumps along the way. Ultimately, those speed bumps lead to growth. They force you to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. The biggest struggle I face as an entrepreneur is having a strong mindset. If I don’t believe in myself, who will? It is up to ourselves to build a strong mindset. It’s important to wake up and tell yourself EVERY SINGLE DAY, “You got this AND you were made for more.” Most of us deal with imposter syndrome but when you know your mission, nothing will stop you.
As you know, we’re big fans of Kristina Maness Photography LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Here at Kristina Maness Photography we are all about hype and confidence. I focus on creating professional images that elevate your brand and take it to the next level. Our goal is stop your target client in their scroll and to book your services and/or buy your product. Together we will create images that tell your story and bring light to the boss babe you are. I provide an all-inclusive, luxurious package that does just this. With each package we cultivate a brand strategy. Hair and makeup is included so you never have to lift a finger. Location is determined specifically for each client and wardrobe assitance is included to match your brand. Being an entrepreneur is tough work. I want to make your branding photoshoot is as stress-free as possible so you can focus on your business. The best part of my job is showing other female entreprenuers their strength and beauty. A lot of women struggle with insecurities, professionally and personally. We get caught up on the day-to-day activities, sometimes we lose ourselves and a little of our confidence. With every photoshoot, I hype you up and remind you of who you are and why you started. You can see that sparkle within each image.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Great question. I would have to say grit, hard work and determination has played the biggest role in my business. I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside the fiercest entrepreneurs in Tampa Bay. By working with these entrepreneurs, I’ve been lucky enough to witness their strengths and watch their dreams become a reality. I am truly so lucky.
Contact Info:
- Email: kristinamaness@gmail.com
- Website: www.kristinamaness.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kristinamaness
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kristinamanessphotography
Image Credits:
Kristina Maness Photography
