We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth Salazar and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Elizabeth, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand is remembering to enjoy the journey. As a Photographer, the journey to success can be a rollercoaster of emotions, risks, and rejection, but it’s really up to you to see it much more than that. I know that personally, I’ve had my moments of being extremely self-critical. I thought that if I reach this “end goal” I would be successful, but it really just distracted me from the brand message I am trying to show to the world. So once I got set on really enjoying the ups and downs of being a Photographer, I was able to appreciate the little moments of growth. I have become more confident in my brand and my products because I trust that I am giving my most authentic self all the time. I am able to have tunnel vision on my journey rather than my end goal. Trusting yourself that you will eventually get there, you will reach your goals, big and small. Your journey will make your brand what is it, it’s just all about your perspective.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always been behind a camera, taking pictures of my family members and friends. Being the “designated photographer” for all our family parties. I got really comfortable learning photography and using it as an art form. But even though I’ve always shared myself creatively, I faced the challenge of having to decide on a career path in a world not made out for the struggling artist. I originally went to university to obtain my Bachelors in Biology because I thought that I’d be happy pursing a well paid career in dentistry. That obviously didn’t work out because in the back of my mind, I knew where my passion was at and what I’d want to spend the rest of my life doing. So I eventually made the decision of trusting my gut and going fully into photography. I am so proud of myself for being bold in that moment and listening to what I really wanted. Today, all of those lessons have shaped me into the Photographer I am. I put 100% into my photoshoots and really enjoy creating art with others. I am not afraid to be vulnerable through my photography because I know it was what I was meant to do.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I am originally in Fort Lauderdale but I also spend a lot of time in Miami. Both are very different but ultimately have great spots at both. In Fort Lauderdale, I love to go to Bar Rita, their margaritas are amazing and it is a very cool pet friendly environment. I also like to visit Yellow Green Market in Hollywood, pick up some great vegetarian food and shop at local vendors. In Miami, I love to eat at 1800 Lucky’s that’s located in Wynwood. I also like to go to the Wharf Miami from time to time to hang out and dance with friends. But if I wanted to go out in nature, I love taking my dog for a walk at Wolf Lake Park in Davie or chill on the sand at The Jetties Beach in Fort Lauderdale.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am so lucky to have gained the support from so many people that have impacted my business. Whether it’s my family & friends, or the creative community as a whole, all of them have really impacted my success. The genuine support and words of encouragement has been so helpful along the way. Especially from other Miami creatives and entrepreneurs; being able to learn from one another and create a project is so fulfilling. I am grateful for those who have taken the time to get to know my brand.
Website: shotbylizy.com
Instagram: instagram.com/shotbylizy
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-salazar-60682911a/
Other: TikTok: @shotbylizy
Image Credits
Shot By Lizy