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

Hi Mariana, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
A very valuable lesson learned that helped me make important decisions, was learning how to say “no”.

When I first started my business, I jumped at any opportunity to book a session.
For example, if someone reached out to me on a Monday saying they wanted to book a session for that Saturday and I already had plans, I would move my whole day around to accommodate that client.
And in other instances, if it was a busy season and someone wanted me to squeeze them into my already overbooked scheduled, I would squeeze them in.

Over time I became so drained and tired that I finally learned to say “no”.
If I was busy, then I was busy. I learned to say ” No i’m booked and my next available day is _______”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I want the world to know that you don’t have to have the most expensive camera or gear to start your business. You just have to be willing to learn. I started my business with a $300 camera and a kit lens. I wasn’t even using Lightroom and Photoshop to edit my images. What I did have was a hunger to learn new things and grow my business. I went to networking events, I interned for other photographers. Attended workshops/ meetups/ webinars. Learned from the mistakes I made along the way.

I continue to work hard to find my own style. I want my original style to be recognized. When people look at one of my images I want them to say “Mariana took that”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?


Inez Lara of Inez Lara Photography and Vida by Inez

Website: www.marilozanostudio.com

Instagram: instagram.com/marilozanostudio

Image Credits
Portrait of Mariana was taken by: Stephanie Sanchez Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.