Today we’d like to introduce you to Vivica Stocker.
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?
Honestly, I was never someone who liked being in front of the camera. But I always loved taking pictures of my friends when we went out. They trusted me to capture their best angles, and it made me happy to see how satisfied they were with the results. I didn’t think much of it at the time, it was just something I enjoyed.
Then during the COVID shutdown, I was talking with a few friends about finding a hobby to pass the time, and several of them suggested that I should look into photography. At first, I laughed it off. But the more I thought about it, the more it started to make sense. I did some research on professional cameras and eventually settled on the Canon T7. I even ran the idea by my good friend Faith, who’s also a photographer, and she gave me the encouragement I needed. Next thing I knew , I was picking up my first camera from Target.
Vivid Moments was born in June 2020. I started watching free photography webinars and became an active student of YouTube University. To gain hands-on experience and build my portfolio, I offered free sessions. I really was trying to improve my skill and find my own personal style of editing. I remember being nervous to start charging for shoots, but once I did, things started to take off.
Now, nearly five years in, I’m fortunate to have a consistent group of returning clients, as well as a steady flow of new ones. I am blessed to have an amazing support system for my brand. It’s hard to believe Vivid Moments is about to celebrate its fifth anniversary.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has come with its fair share of challenges. As a creative, I think it’s natural to go through seasons where you’re re-evaluating your style, skills, and purpose. For me, one of those periods came when I stepped away from photography for almost a year while I was in graduate school. When I returned to shooting, it pushed me to take a closer look at my skills, and preferences. Even now, nearly five years in, I still have moments where I question who I am as a photographer and my areas of growth. It’s an ongoing process, but I’ve come to accept that as part of the creative journey and to have grace with myself along the way.
We’ve been impressed with Vivid Moments , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I specialize in portrait and event photography. I offer a variety of basic photoshoot packages that work well for occasions such as birthdays, personal branding sessions, and couple shoots. I also provide headshot, graduation, and family packages. I tend to focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for my clients. I want people to feel at ease in front of the camera because that’s when I capture the most authentic moments. One of my proudest accomplishments so far has been booking two major conferences in 2024. At one, I had the opportunity to take professional headshots for high-level state employees. At the other, I got to witness and capture powerful moments at a girl empowerment conference, an experience that was both inspiring and humbling. Vivid Moments is about more than just photography. It’s about capturing meaningful moments while providing the most thoughtful and seamless experience possible.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My good friend Faith definitely deserves credit in this journey. She has always been available to answer any question I’ve ever had. She is not only a wonderful friend, she is also an AMAZING photographer who inspires me. Of course, Im always grateful for my village and those who continuously support my business.
Pricing:
- Headshots: $60
- Basic Photoshoot: $150
- Graduation: $200
- Family: $250
- Events: $150 per hour
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__vividmoments/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivica-stocker/
