How it began: My Journey in Photography

My journey into photography began with sharing photos on Instagram, I saved up to buy my own camera as a working student and began taking on more clients, building confidence and skills along the way. My first major gig, a birthday party was memorable for both its challenges and successes, solidifying my passion for this craft.

This was my first photo with my own camera, taken on the exact date I bought it.

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My journey in photography began with a love for sharing pictures on Instagram. I felt so inspired that I created a dedicated account just for my photos, which eventually became the official Instagram page for SONYSIDEUP PHOTOS. Fast forward to 2022, when I borrowed a Nikon D5100 DSLR for a school project. What started as a simple loan turned into a valuable experience when friends asked if I could do a photoshoot for their child’s birthday. This became my first paid session, earning me 700 pesos, and was soon followed by a few other projects that, while unpaid, came with the support and treats that helped me build my skills.

In January 2023, I had to return the borrowed camera, but by then, I was motivated to keep going. Without my own equipment, I started volunteering for campus events, borrowing cameras from classmates who generously supported my passion. These opportunities allowed me to document events, cover photoshoots, and even practice videography, which further solidified my love for photography.

With the money I earned as a working student over seven months, I finally bought my own DSLR camera. This was a huge milestone, as I’d promised myself that photography would become a source of income to support my needs. My confidence and drive to improve led to my first big payday in March 2023, covering a birthday party at Jollibee in Naic, Cavite, where I earned a four-digit amount. It was a memorable experience with unexpected challenges, but thanks to my background in customer service, I managed to handle them smoothly and ensure the client was happy. This journey has taught me more than I ever imagined, and I’m excited to keep growing with each new opportunity.