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

Hi Al, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At first when I started photography, I saw it more as a hobby. As I dove deeper into it, I felt this constant need to create. The journey of establishing my own business stemmed from a desire for autonomy. As a military spouse, I discovered that possessing a degree didn’t necessarily provide me with the flexibility I needed. Therefore, when the decision was mine to make, I opted for a path that not only allowed for creativity but also offered me a sense of control. Regrettably, for many women, the challenge of kickstarting a career while simultaneously building a family can feel like an uphill struggle. And when you add an active-duty spouse into the mix, it can seem even more daunting. Fortunately for me, I was able to carve out a business that could adapt to my ever-changing circumstances.

 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m most proud of my ability to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories that clients cherish forever. I’m excited about the endless possibilities to explore creativity and expand my horizons within the world of photography.

Getting to this point in my photography business journey was a rewarding yet challenging one. It wasn’t easy, and it required perseverance and dedication. I overcame various challenges by constantly honing my photography skills, learning from industry experts, and staying updated with the latest technology and trends. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability and staying open to change.

I want the world to know that my photography business is driven by a deep passion for storytelling through images. Every photograph I take is a piece of art that encapsulates emotions, memories, and the beauty of life. I’m not just photographer; I’m a storyteller.

 

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Puzzle Adventure

We’d kick off the trip with a visit to Cracked It, our local escape room in Jacksonville, NC. As I love puzzles, it’s a must-visit to challenge our wits and have some fun.

Relaxation Day

For a day of relaxation and wellness, we’d head to Bluewater Wellness in Sneads Ferry, a place to unwind and rejuvenate.

Culinary Exploration

Since I’m a foodie, we’d explore the local culinary scene. Lunch would be at El Cerro, my favorite taco spot, and dinner at Wasabi for some delightful sushi.

Beach Day

The surrounding Jacksonville area is blessed with beautiful beaches, so we’d spend a day at Surf City, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean. We’d also make a pit stop at Daybreak Donuts for some delicious donuts.

Outdoor Adventure

We’d embark on an outdoor adventure, perhaps hiking in the nearby Croatan National Forest or exploring the charming Onslow Pines Park.

Cultural Exploration

To explore the local culture, we’d visit the Lejeune Memorial Gardens and Museum, which pays tribute to the military history of the region.

Wine Tasting

A visit to Huffman Vineyards for wine tasting, where we can savor local wines and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

 

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to my husband, who not only indulged my ideas but also lifted me up when I encountered roadblocks on my journey. My family, my unwavering cheerleaders, offered their ears, shoulders, and support even during moments of self-doubt.

Beyond my family, my heartfelt appreciation extends to a close-knit group of friends who stood by my side, providing encouragement and motivation at every turn.

 

Website: pleasantlycaptured.com

Instagram: @pleasantlycapturedphotography

Facebook: fb.com/pleasantlycapturedphotography

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@Pleasantlycapturedphotography

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