We had the good fortune of connecting with Isabella “Bella” Cendan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isabella “Bella”, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida, which is also where I currently work. Growing up in this environment has allowed me to understand the beauty in diversity and truly accept everyone as they are. My background and upbringing in my household has tremendously impacted who I am today. 

My father was born in Cuba and came to Miami with his parents and brother when he was in high school, and he has consistently worked incredibly hard to build a strong household and future full of possibilities for my family. I have learned the importance of hard work and determination from my dad. Aside from being the most hardworking person I know, he is also artistic and creative; I believe I got my artistic talents from him. My brothers and I would not have the opportunities that we are so lucky to have if it were not for him being a continuous source of inspiration as both a doctor (one who truly prioritizes his patient’s overall well-being and happiness) and as a father (one who truly loves his family and has provided so much for us all).

My mother is from Pennsylvania and is the daughter of Italian immigrants. As one of six siblings, the stories that my mother has told me of sacrifice and belief that were ingrained in her from a young age motivates me every single day. As a nurse and as a human being, my mother is the strongest and most kind-hearted person I know, constantly doing all that she can to help anyone around her. I am beyond lucky for the relationship I have with my mom; if, one day, I am half the woman she is, I would be so happy.
Having such strong role models between my mother and father, both professionally and personally, has molded me into someone who understands the importance of family and of working hard for your dreams. They both have sacrificed so much, for us to have the best futures possible. My parents have shown me that your dreams and your success are not just for your own professional happiness, but for the overall happiness you will experience with the people that you love the most. They have always encouraged us to chase our dreams and not be limited in what we strive to achieve. I could not be more grateful for the parents that I have, and for the motivation to succeed that I constantly have from both of them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Bella Rosa Productions is my small business where I provide lifestyle photography and freelance videography services throughout the Miami-Dade County area. Whether it be a proposal, engagement shoot, gender reveal party, maternity photos, newborn shots, graduation shoots, personal branding photography for someone’s business, headshots or more, I am grateful to utilize my passion for storytelling by providing photography services for others during moments that deserve to be documented for a lifetime. I love utilizing storytelling through visual films, as well, and am grateful for every opportunity I have had to grow as a producer and editor through my freelance videography services. I have learned the importance of boundaries and perseverance along the way. While it has not always been an easy road, with the support and team I have, I am grateful to have gotten where I am and to know that there is so much more good to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week long trip in Miami, I would make sure to take my visitor to my favorite go-to spots. Watching the sunset from Key Biscayne, and sunrise in Miami Beach, would be at the top of the itinerary. Going to bodies of water and just sitting, listening to the sound of the waves, is one of my favorite things to do to feel centered. I would also want them to experience the beautiful culture and diversity abundantly available here, making sure I take them to some of the less tourist-centered spots in the area and show them the beauty behind the different people, architecture, and food here.
A day trip to Islamorada in the Keys would also be a great relaxing way to end the trip.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am lucky to have a great support system that consistently provides mentorship, love, and encouragement. Through my highest highs and lowest lows, I have had people who believe in me by my side and reminding me why I should continue chasing my dream. I have had a great team behind me every step of the way in my business, and I would not have the courage or motivation to continue working as hard as I do for my business to succeed if it were not for them in the early stages. Additionally, my time volunteering with Camp Kesem (a nationwide non-profit helping children through and beyond a caregiver’s cancer) has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Some of the best people I have met in my life, and some of the best projects I have completed in both photography and videography, have happened due to Camp Kesem. I would not be who I am and where I am without Camp Kesem.

Website: www.bellarosaproductions.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellarosaproductions/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/isabella_cendan

Facebook: facebook.com/brosaproductions

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC10YnyFwD-ypTETlll_ljWw?view_as=subscriber

Image Credits
Headshot photo of myself captured by AKouri Photography Remaining photos taken by me, Bella Rosa Productions

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