Meet Amanda Cil | Owner & Photographer at Amanda Cil Photos

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

Hi Amanda, why did you pursue a creative career?
It’s funny how I was just recently talking about this with my mom. Since I was a little girl my family has been very art-inclined. I remember taking painting and acting lessons when I was 4 years old. By the age of 10, I was dancing and that lasted 6 years. My life has revolved around almost all forms of art, even writing. I have a few, non-published, fiction stories of my own. So, photography was definitely down my alley; I just gravitated towards it. Why did I pursue an artistic career? I believe that art is the ultimate way to express one’s feelings. I also love to create, and photography makes it very easy. I can’t describe the feeling I get every time I see something that I had in my head translated into real life. Art, in general, for me is passion and it makes me feel successful and fulfilled. I think that if you’re passionate enough about something you just do it, obstacles aside. I didn’t choose photography, photography chose me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I like to think of Amanda Cil Photos as my baby and seeing it grow the way it is growing makes me feel nothing but proud. We offer portraits for families, couples, businesses and individuals. We also offer maternity, graduation and milestones sessions along with event photography (birthdays, baby showers, weddings, quinceañeras). I also love to believe that we offer more than photos, we offer an unforgettable experience. My clients have turned into amazing friends. I like to connect with them on a personal level, make them feel like family. Because at the end of the day is all about my clients and not me. It is incredible seeing them be the best version of themselves in front of the camera because they’re comfortable enough to be that vulnerable. I got to where I am today because of them and because of their trust. The road has definitely not been easy, there are always bumps. I remember those first couple of months when I didn’t book any sessions and that somehow made me feel like a failure. Yet, I overcame the challenges with lots of patience, dedication, discipline, and sacrifice. I worked on my craft and practiced a lot with my friends and that’s what helped me to get experience and exposure. As I see it, I want the world to know that dreams are meant to be followed. Perseverance is definitely the key.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Miami is such an amazing place. How can one not be in love with a place like this? For starts, I would take my best friend to Wynwood mostly because of its colors. I will also add a few stops at the Miami Design District, the famous Calle Ocho, and last but not least South Beach to enjoy some sun. Ice cream at Azucar, croquetas at the Versailles ventanita, and some ceviche at the Rusty Pelican.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom and dad have definitely been my anchors through this entire process. Their support, love, and understanding are beyond imagination. I want to thank them for everything they have done for me and for my business. My family, in general, deserves so much credit because of their constant support. Thank you to each and every one of you!

Website: https://www.amandacilphotos.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandacil.photos

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacil

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cil_llc

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClfP8T6ADH7lkbdsBr0E62A