Today we’d like to introduce you to Isabella Setian.
Hi Isabella, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve loved the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. The manifestation of such a love was through art: drawing, dancing, singing, reading, designing et cetera. Besides this, as a youngster and even now, I love people. I love their stories, their talents and who they are. I love helping people know their identity. I love helping people know they are loved.
As I grew up, I loved drawing people – specifically in a realistic style. I loved capturing the intricacies of a face or hands. But, eventually, I decided I didn’t want to be a studio artist for the rest of my life. But I still loved beauty and I still loved people.
When I was preparing for a three week trip to Armenia in the summer of 2019, I knew I wanted to photograph whatever we saw. I am Armenian so visiting my ancestral homeland as an 11 year old was hugely impactful. I begged my parents for a camera and tried to save up enough money but in the end, I made do with my dad’s old iPhone. I snapped photos at every opportunity, soaking up the pleasure of getting to capture the ancient churches built by my ancestors. I took over 2,000 images in those short weeks.
Returning home, I realized how much I loved photography. I photographed as much as possible with that iPhone. Pinching every penny, I finally saved up enough to buy my first camera in 2022.
The rest is history. Since that moment, when I opened the box with my Canon Rebel T100, I knew that I wanted to do photography for the rest of my life.
I knew that I wanted to capture the truth, goodness and beauty of someone through my camera lens. I would get to interact with people while showing them who they really are.
My mission is to artfully and authentically document the most important moments in life. Pursuing and promoting truth, goodness and beauty, I inspire my clients by beautifully capturing who they truly are. I know that each person I meet is an image-bearer of the Creator and I want to capture that beauty.
I’ve had the privilege of working with many clients in just the last year – as my business has slowly grown. I so excited that I get to photograph people and I hope and pray that I can continue to do this as the years go on. I would love to capture the magic and love of a wedding day as my professional career. I can’t wait for what’s next!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Great question.
There have been a few struggles along the way (it’s been a four year process). I started my website in summer of 2024 and started having my first paying clients in the spring of 2025. Between that time, I took lots of free photos for friends and familymembers, slowly building up my portfolio.
I’ve submitted my work to many contests and some I’ve received an award and others not. A mentor of mine told me to keep trying, to keep putting myself out there, so I have.
I’ve had some difficult clients, but those experiences have taught me a lot. I’ve learned some things at a much faster rate than perhaps other photographers! Specifically in the wedding industry, nothing anyone tells you can prepare you for what’s ahead. But, each failure and each challenge is an opportunity for more growth. I’ve bounced back (slowly at times) from these experiences with renewed vigor and new things I want to implement.
Otherwise, it’s been an exciting road – filled with endless possibilities. I’ve done such a variety of photoshoots in the last two years! Engagements, senior shoots, events, receptions, maternity and a wedding! I am thankful for each opportunity!!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Well, I’m still learning the art of photography.
My mission as I stated before is to help people know they are loved, valued, seen and known. In a world of Instagram filters and social media, I want my clients to feel absolutely free and beautiful in front of my camera lens. They don’t have to be fake, or cover themselves up with insecurities or masks. They can be real and authentic and real.
I currently specialize in senior portrait photoshoots with long term goals of becoming a professional wedding/elopement photographer.
I would also love to continue family and senior sessions in the future.
I am most proud of my ability to set others at ease and capture who they truly are.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Ooh great question.
Well, actually, a dear friend of ours from our small group helped me greatly when I was first starting out. She is an interior and architectural photographer in Greenville – and her work is masterful. She has given me lots of great tips and even some free gear! I am greatly indebted to her.
Furthermore, when I was looking for my senior photographer online, I found Sarah Claire Portraiture. I reached out to her and she immediately responded. I knew then that she would be my photographer. Our session was BEAUTIFUL and she truly captured me authentically. I aspire to be more like her. After the session, we’ve remained friends and she is a dear mentor to me – helping me through some trying times! Her advice on contracts and lighting has been immensely helpful.
I think when looking for a mentor one must always be willing to learn and willing to listen. Everyone around us has good wisdom and important things to offer and bring to the table.
I love to learn. I am a lifelong learner. My mom has always taught me, learning doesn’t ever stop. You don’t stop learning after you finish school. It’s always happening, And, failure is learning. Sometimes failure invites opportunities of growth that you wouldn’t otherwise have.
So I’d say, always be willing to ask questions, learn, grow and fail. It’s ok. You don’t have to be perfect. Seek out those people. Don’t be afraid to reach out with questions – it means you’re interested & invested. Stick with it! Don’t give up!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://belleveritephotography.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@belleveritephotography
