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

Hi Diana, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I decided to start my photography business focused on music events because of my passion for music and my favorite part was to capture the beautiful vibe and energy the crowd and performers had to offer. Taking shots of people just enjoying themselves I personally think it’s the most natural pictures when they see them they can relive that moment again and save it in a better way than just a memory.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The hardest part was to trust in my own work, because photography is a very competitive industry and there’s always gonna be somebody better than me but I always remind myself that the only person I had to be in a competition is with myself, that way I could push to do better in my own way. I know a lot of people say that anybody with a camera can be a photographer but I believe it’s on the mindset, eye and skill of the person behind the camera that creates the perfect shot which is why I’m proud of myself and excited of so much I still need to learn.

Being a female photographer wasn’t easy, most event organizers relied on who were my connections rather than my work to hire me which was my biggest challenge because I wanted to do networking to get my brand name out there but everybody had a different expectation from me so I had to look for my own ways to get notice and let my work speak for itself without needing somebody’s else influence.

I moved to the USA in 2022 from Costa Rica leaving my friends and family behind, sold everything and started a new life. All I can say is that nothing has been for granted, I’ve worked really hard to be where I am right now, following a dream doing what I love for a living. Despite everything I’ve been through I’ve learned to handle it with an open mind and never giving up on me or my dreams.

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.
One of my favorite places is Optimist Hall and Camp North End since there’s always events going on of local support and different cultures.

Charlotte has a lot of Music venues like PNC Pavillon, Trio, Blackbox Theater and others, where for me the vibe and energy from people is the best to feel included and have a good time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My best friend Allan, he was like my mentor since I started recommending the right tools to start with my business from his experience as a photographer as well.

My partner Gustavo, has been the best assistant I’ve ever had, his unconditional support during late nights of photo sessions and edition.

They never lost their faith in me and always push me to do my best which I’m so grateful for.

Website: https://canics.mypixieset.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canics_photographer?igsh=MWM4Ymx5eWx1bHg4ZQ==

Image Credits
Trio Charlotte, Aether (DJ), Elephante (DJ) and Twirly Worley (performer with LED)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.