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

Hi Virginia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I was a photography major as an undergrad in college, and when I first moved to NYC, I entered the photography industry as a photo and production assistant. I organically transitioned to fashion and beauty copywriting after getting burnt out working in the photo industry, but after a couple of years, I realized how much I missed the fast-paced environment and the social aspects of being on set and creating visual art. So, I officially started my business as a full time freelance photographer in 2018.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a fashion and beauty photographer in the NYC area, producing commercial and editorial work. I have always considered myself a photographer for women because I primarily shoot female and femme people. I photograph my subjects through a female gaze, not shying away from color, softness and florals. I also aim to shoot a diverse range of models, and although I still feel like I could go farther in terms of the representation in my portfolio, I am happy that I am actively taking time to seek out a variety of models from different backgrounds. Similarly, I primarily work with female creatives. I notice that there are many photographers who are still not making efforts to cast diverse models or to work with women or POC, and I am proud that I am breaking that mold.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in Astoria, so I always drag visitors out to Queens to eat some of the best Greek food in The City! Taverna Kyclades is a classic dinner spot, and some of the best ice cream can be found at Ample Hills. Then, I’d want to take a walk through Astoria Park! In Manhattan, we’d have to check out the art galleries in Chelsea and take a stroll on The Highline.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a shoutout to my good friend Derick Marquez who was one of the first photographers I met in the industry and who helped guide me, teaching me about equipment and the ins and outs of the photo industry. I also want to shoutout my makeup artist friend Lindsay Kastuk who has encouraged me to stay true to myself when shooting and to follow my creative urges and never give up!

Website: https://www.virginiakluiters.com/

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

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