Meet Vicky Benitez | New York Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vicky Benitez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vicky, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
Other than deciding to work for myself, the single most important decision I made that contributed to my success was to never stop learning. I LOVE taking classes and learning about different topics, not just photography. I found amazing mentors, stayed curious, and always kept up with the latest trends. This made me feel better and more confident at what I do and helped me create much better photos for my clients!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m excited to share more about my art and journey. What sets my photography apart is my focus one niche of headshots and portraits for branding, capturing the true essence and professionalism of my clients through branding, beauty, and glamour images. I believe everyone is photogenic, and my goal is to showcase their unique personalities with minimal post-production.
It makes me happy to see the difference my work makes for my clients. Watching their confidence grow and their brand shine through my photos is incredibly fulfilling. One of my favorite phrases is, “I don’t know what the meaning of ‘I’m not photogenic’ is,” because I truly believe everyone has their own unique beauty.
My professional journey hasn’t been easy. Moving from Paraguay to New York was a big challenge. Learning a new language, adapting to a different culture, and starting my career from scratch required perseverance and determination. My early days in photography were shaped by important mentors and classes I took. Clear goals, faith, perseverance, hard work, hope, and a positive mindset have been key.
In beauty photography, I love to create a concept with the client first and then with the makeup artist. For headshots and branding, I focus on preparing the client before the session. This preparation helps clients feel more confident when they come to the studio, where I coach them to bring out their best.
What I want the world to know about my brand is that I’m dedicated to providing a SPECIAL EXPERIENCE for each person. My sessions are designed to enjoy and make them feel confident and approachable, create images that truly reflect who they are. I’m committed to helping professionals shine with high-quality images that elevate their BRANDS.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d plan a week of fun and memorable experiences. Here’s our itinerary
Day 1
Start the day with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying the view and the history behind this iconic structure. Capture some amazing photos to keep the memory alive.
End the walk in DUMBO and grab a delicious ice cream from Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory.
Take more pictures with the breathtaking view of the Freedom Tower.
Hop on a ferry to Long Island City, enjoying the glorious downtown Manhattan skyline from the water. Capture the sunset colors for a picturesque memory.
Finish the day with dinner at one of Long Island City’s amazing seafood or Mexican restaurants.
Day 2
A relaxing day exploring local Colombian bakeries, tasting fresh bread and pastries.
Enjoying different coffee places, indulging in the variety of flavors New York has to offer.
Day 3
Visit One Vanderbilt, taking in the stunning views of the city.
Spend time at the MoMA, exploring the incredible art collections and the delicious food of the museum restaurant.
Choose one of the best Broadway shows for an unforgettable evening.
Day 4
Recommend visiting in early spring to fully appreciate the city’s floral beauty.
Spend the day in Central Park, enjoying the Cherry Blossoms and capturing the beautiful scenes with photos to remember the experience.
Choose some nice restaurant close to Central Park
Day 5
More relaxed exploration of different coffee places around the city, savoring unique blends and flavors of Mexican and Peruvian food in Williamsburg Brooklyn
Spend time visiting other charming neighborhoods in the same area.
Day 6
Take a trip to one of New York’s famous rooftop bars for stunning views and a great atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely day, revisiting favorite spots or discovering new ones based on my friends interests.
Day 7
Wrap up with a delightful dinner at a Venezuelan Mexican tasty restaurant, remembering about the week’s adventures enjoying the unique New York City

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my amazing mentors. Kenneth, my first photography mentor in New York taught me the basics of studio lighting and post-production. My current mentor, since 2019, Peter, has helped me improve my skills in lighting, skin colors and how to coach my clients. Their wisdom and support were invaluable. I also want to thank my family, especially my grandmother, mother, and aunt Estela, for teaching me strength and perseverance. A special thanks to my cousin Elda and Agus for they support in my more difficult moments.
My current friends and makeup artists who are always ready to check my pictures or just listening my crazy ideas. Of course my partners in @Arandu-Wise, Mariana y Yuli. And my new business teacher Liliana.
Also books like “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” “Profit First,” and “Atomic Habits” have been game-changers for me.
Lastly, a big thank you to my wonderful AMAZING CLIENTS who trust me for years to capture their special moments, personality and professionalism.

Website: https://4the1image.com

Instagram: @4the1image

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-benitez-portrait-photographer-3886623/

Twitter: https://x.com/vicky_benitez

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vbenitezpy/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/4the1-image-queens

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6n1gFwfYUtEiLlQpyZG3_Q

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/4the1image/?actingBusinessId=224054287620118054

Image Credits
Photos by Vicky Benitez, New York Photographer
Makeup Artists: Yuli Duarte, Stephanie Vasquez, Adri Cabrera, Silver Lopez and Claudia Huespe