Today we’d like to introduce you to Mila Vega.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When it comes to photography, I call myself a “pandemic photographer”. Let me explain. Pandemic happened and we all got locked in our homes. In an instant, everything became virtual. I realized this was my chance to begin pursuing photography in a focused way where I dedicate time and resources to structured education (I’m a huge believer in education). Being stuck at home gave me time; everything being virtual gave me access to classes with masters of photography across the globe. I was no longer limited by schedule and my geographic location. This has been a game-changer when it comes to my growth as a photographer. Before my laser focus on photography, I was involved with arts and fashion for many years. It began in college where I took classes in fine art, charcoal drawing, and digital art. I didn’t major in art; I used art classes to expand my own education beyond the required curriculum. I even took a class on introduction to opera (haha, no, I didn’t sing!). I tried painting with oil and acrylic, worked with mixed media. Later got involved with organizing fashion shows as a volunteer. Basically, explored various areas of the creative world. All of that influenced my photography work. I definitely see what I’ve learned about light in my fine art classes and about styling being around fashion designers in my photographs.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has been a journey! Growth and evolution are not easy. There is always a desire to do more, better, faster but you have to give yourself time to rest, reflect and recharge. I think my biggest challenge is pacing myself. I’m taking one class after another. I promise myself to slow down and take a break before jumping into the next class (with lots of homework) or creative project, then break my own promise and immediately upon completion start something new. Patience is a virtue I’m yet to master!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In my photography, I specialize in the fantasy and fairy tale genres. Since childhood, I have loved reading and my imagination always created whimsical colorful worlds. I think I never grew out of a “dreaming about magic” phase. My world is full of different characters that have a story. Warriors, fairies, queens… They all live in my photography.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I would love to encourage your readers to go after things they have always wanted to do but never really got to it. Please don’t wait until you have more time, more money, when you retire, when… (fill in the blanks). There is never going to be a more perfect time than right now to invite something you are passionate about into your life. Think about that one thing that keeps following you. Maybe it’s dance, photography, painting, sewing, training dogs, baking, makeup, interior decorating, gardening… Please give yourself permission to invite that into your life. I’ve always had a professional career that actually is very far from anything artistic and creative however photography was constantly surfacing in my life throughout the years. Once I carved out a permanent intentional space for it, that part of me began to thrive making my life more balanced, colorful, happy and fulfilled. I’ve met so many amazing creatives, locally and internationally. These connections led to numerous collaborations and creative projects. I’m so excited about the journey I’m on now and the future. Dear reader, what journey is waiting for you?
Contact Info:
- Email: amiladiumphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/amiladium
Image Credits
Jada Rhone
Megs Silva
Josh Posada
Alori Cerutti
Amaya Cerutti
Pyrion Astorii
Samantha Steger
Justine Homiak