Q and A with Giliane from Minneapolis, Minnesota
“The obstacles I’ve encountered have taught me more about my craft, my business, and myself than any success ever has.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: My passion for photography ignited from a simple desire to capture the fleeting, beautiful moments of life. It’s grown into a lifelong journey of documenting the tender first days of a newborn, the loving glances of a family, and every precious moment in between. My work is more than just photography—it’s about preserving memories that last a lifetime.
Aside from my professional life, I’m deeply engaged in urban gardening and actively participate in the local arts community here in Saint Paul, Minnesota. These personal pursuits enrich my creativity and keep me connected with my surroundings.
Recently, I’ve expanded my focus to include mentoring and developing an educational platform for photography. This new venture allows me to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and experiences with aspiring photographers. I’m currently creating a series of online courses and one-on-one mentoring sessions designed to help photographers at various stages of their careers. Whether they’re just starting out or looking to refine their skills, I’m here to guide them. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my students grow and succeed in their own photographic endeavors. In all, my work and personal interests are deeply intertwined, each feeding into and enriching the other, creating a fulfilling circle of creativity and community engagement.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: Growing up, my world was full of color and creativity, thanks to a family that loved all things artistic. I remember getting my hands dirty with paint and clicking away on a small camera I was gifted. These weren’t just hobbies; they were my first steps toward seeing the world through a creative lens—literally and metaphorically.
School played a big role, too. It wasn’t just about the grades; it was where I learned to look at problems and think, ‘There’s a different way to do this.’ That kind of thinking is what I bring to my photography business every day—looking for the unique angle or the untold story.
I also spent a lot of time helping out at community events, where I’d often be the unofficial photographer. It was more than just taking photos; it was about capturing the spirit of the moment. Those early snaps of community gatherings weren’t just practice; they were my first lessons in storytelling.
All these threads from my past—art, education, community involvement—wove together to guide me to where I am now. They taught me the importance of not just capturing images but capturing stories and emotions. And that’s what I strive to do at Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC. It’s also why I’m so passionate about mentoring and teaching photography—to help others learn how to tell their own stories through the lens.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One valuable lesson I’ve learned through my journey with Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC is the importance of resilience and adaptability. In the world of photography, and business in general, things rarely go exactly as planned. Whether it’s a sudden change in the weather during an outdoor shoot, unexpected technical issues, or navigating the highs and lows of running a business, being able to adapt quickly and stay focused on your goals is crucial.
I’ve also learned the significance of staying true to your vision while being open to growth and new ideas. This balance has not only helped me refine my craft but also expanded my business into new areas like education and mentoring. I encourage others to remain open to learning and evolving, no matter how established they might feel in their career or personal life.
From my story, I’d like others to learn that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. The obstacles I’ve encountered have taught me more about my craft, my business, and myself than any success ever has. I hope my journey inspires others to embrace their challenges as stepping stones to their dreams.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: To me, feminism is essentially about fairness. It’s about everyone having the same shot at success and happiness, no matter their gender. This idea influences everything I do, from how I frame a shot to how I run my business at Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC.
In my studio, it means creating a space where everyone—clients and staff—feels respected and valued. It’s about capturing photos that truly reflect the person’s strength and spirit, whether they’re a CEO, a stay-at-home parent, or a high school grad just starting out.
Feminism also drives my commitment to mentoring, especially for women who are often underrepresented in our field. I want to help open doors for others that were once closed and create opportunities for all aspiring photographers to thrive. At the end of the day, feminism to me is about striving for a world where everyone has the freedom to be themselves and the opportunity to succeed. That’s the world I envision through my lens and in my actions every day.
Connect with Giliane: Website: www.giliane-e-mansfeldtphotography.com
Contact info: info@giliane-e-mansfeldtphotography.com
Studio phone: 651-273-0905
Thanks for reading!
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