Today's Student Spotlight will reignite PASSION! I'm thrilled to be introducing Claudia Fimian of Claudia Fimian Photography! Like many of us she didn't start out pursuing photography, but her passion for capturing memories led her to her own business today – Claudia Fimian Photography! Ready to hear more? Me too, so let's dive in!

Tell me about yourself.

I’m born and raised in Chesapeake, VA! I worked in the medical field for 5 years then quit my job to care for my grandmother with Alzheimer’s. During that time I discovered a passion for photography and started educating myself to document memories of my family. Months later I started my business with the goal to photograph other families! I’m a mom to an almost 2 year old little boy and two fur babies (dogs)! Oh and I’ve been married 3.5 years to the love of my life. I love chocolate, reading, spending time with family and time outdoors.

Tell me about your photography business!

I currently shoot couples, families, and milestones, but I'm really trying to break into Motherhood photography (maternity, lifestyle newborn) because that’s where my heart lies. I started my business in April 2021 and it took off much faster than I expected it to! I’m continuing to educate myself as I discover how to run a business and keep to my style.

What started your photography journey?

Becoming a mom and losing my grandparents. From the time my son was born, I wanted to be able to document photographic memories. When he was almost a year old I purchased a beginner camera just to play around with, and at the same time found out my Grandpa was terminally ill. I became very passionate about documenting special moments with my family after looking through family photos for his memorial. And after he passed I quit my job to care for my Grandma with Alzheimer’s, who he left behind. While caring for my Grandma I decided I wanted to educate myself so I could really use my camera for what it was worth.

Once I started my education journey I realized I wanted to capture memories for other people and their families. My grandmother passed away less than a year later, but I have so many photographic memories of our time together (be it from a cell phone or DSLR). Photos mean the world to me, now that they are both gone. And I want to give that gift to someone else!

What is your favorite thing about running a photography business?

Meeting new people and seeing the love their families share! Seeing the way Moms and Dads look at their little ones, or the way couples look at one another brings me such joy. I love love and I love seeing it in others!

What is something you've achieved that you're proud of?

Honestly, just finding my passion in general. I studied biology in college and got a job in the medical field because it seemed like what I was supposed to do. For five years I felt lost and confused about what I was doing with my life. My whole photography journey is what makes me most proud, because it took me a while to find this passion and now I don’t feel so lost anymore.

If you could tell your past self one thing what would it be?

It’s ok to not know what you’re meant to do, but life has funny ways of showing you what that something is! Just listen to your heart and follow what brings you joy – if you haven’t found what does bring you joy yet, just wait because it’s coming!

Where can we find you and Claudia Fimian Photography?

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Don't forget to check out other Student Spotlights!