Today we’d like to introduce you to Adriana Martinez.
Adriana, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up taking photos with either a Polaroid or disposable camera in hand. I still have all my prints in scrapbooks and boxes of photos til this day! Photography just came natural to me and always felt like the right path to pursue. I feel I took after my mom who also took a lot of photos back in her days. I remember looking through her albums over and over as a kid and just fell in love with the idea of capturing special moments.
I took photography classes in college and continued taking photos of anything that caught my eye. In 2015, I started attending NWL shows, an independent professional wrestling promotion, and took photos as a fan from my seat. Being into WWE really fueled my passion and I began sharing my work, got to know the wrestlers/staff, and it just took off from there. After they closed their doors, Journey Pro made their debut and my photography journey continued to grow.
At the same time, I was being mentored by Nick Tre Smith who took me under his wing and provided me with so much knowledge and opportunities in sports. From there, I decided to start my business and grew my clientele over the years by word of mouth through family and friends. Over time, I received other guidance/photo opportunities from Tiffany Bukley, Chris Hansen, & Niah Rose who are also great creatives as well. My main focus has been on building my portfolio, networking with creatives, and continuing to challenge myself with learning new skills. It’s all about striving to become better in everything I do and capture special moments for people.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey hasn’t always been easy, but I still make it work no matter what. Not only is the photography industry very competitive, there are sacrifices we as owners have to make just like in anyone else in business. I have always juggled full-time jobs to provide extra income for my family and have attended college during some periods of time. I could work a full week Monday-Friday, be booked on the weekend, and still have to edit photos late at night and into the week, all while taking care of things at home, gym, etc. It’s all about balance, making the time, and keeping the goals/dreams in focus. Being busy, challenged, and bringing happiness to others’ is what I love the most, so in the end, it’s most definitely worth it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a professional photographer who specializes in sports, portraits, events, landscape, and more. If a client has an idea, I’m always willing to make it happen and add my creativity to their vision. I’m known for my ring and promo work with Central States Wrestling here in Kansas City. I’ve worked with a lot of people there over several years from previous promotions I shot for.
I’d say I’m most proud of myself for never giving up in the hard times and setting a great example as a Latina creative in my community. I often get asked, “How do you do it with working a FT job, taking care of your family, going to the gym, and managing baseball life?”. Honestly, there is no special secret, I just do what I need to do and don’t allow myself to make any excuses. It’s my drive for success and motivation to grow that sets me apart from others.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people who know me/my work might not know that my photography wasn’t my #1 dream. It was actually to be a professional athlete and compete in the Olympics as a swimmer and gymnast. I started in grade school and competed against other athletes for 5 years. It was one of the best chapters of my life!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lunapixkc.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunapixkc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HCiLpxCLD/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriana-martinez-716a4969
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/hWtZ1A_D-9
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audrey_dimples_
