Meet Maddisen V. | Photographer

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

Hi Maddisen, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
The decision to believe in myself is the most important decision I’ve ever made. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s the truth. So many people doubt freelancers and creatives, and it’s not an easy path to pursue. If I let myself be doubtful of my abilities or listen to the critiques of people who may not understand my journey, I will never succeed. The only person that is capable of making this career happen for me is me. So, I’ve worked hard to practice my skills and continue to improve to feel confident in my work and block out any negativity being thrown in my direction.

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.
I started out in the music industry as a concert photographer and social media manager for local artists. I loved the music industry and capturing the raw emotion of the artists performing, but I was being called to pursue a different path. After leaving the music industry, my path was a little rocky as I dabbled in different types of photography from products to portraits to events. After much deliberation about what I feel my “calling” is, I found it. I love working with small businesses and conscious brands. So, now I do product and branding photography, as well as content creation, for clients in the conscious and spiritual community. I am excited to work with like-minded individuals who are also passionate about growing their businesses. On the creative side, I’ve started pursuing portrait photography more seriously, and have done some really amazing projects so far. I’m most excited about a Zodiac-themed photo series that I’ve been working on with so many local creatives including models, makeup artists, and stylists. This project has pushed me to my limits both creatively and as an entrepreneur. I can’t wait to see where that project takes me and what it inspires me to do next. 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
San Diego is full of incredible and one-of-a-kind experiences, and what I love most is showing people new things that they may not have where they live. San Diego has a vibe for everyone, so if I had to make an itinerary for a friend visiting, I’d try to cater it to what that friend likes. If they’re beach-goers, I’d take them for a Mint Mojito at Philz Coffee, hit up Windandsea Beach in La Jolla, and finish off the day at Puesto for some tacos and margaritas. If they’re more of a city and nightlife person, I’d definitely head over to Little Italy. They have some of the best bars in my opinion, like the speakeasy False Idol, Kings & Queens Cantina, and Kettner Exchange. I’d probably try to take them to as many speakeasies as we could fit in because who doesn’t love an experience that has a little mystery to it.

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?
The turning point of my career has been through my involvement with Media On The Rise. Special thanks to CEO and mentor, Maddie, who has played a significant role in the growth of my career and of myself. Maddie is an incredible business-woman and I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with and learn from her. Through this partnership, I’ve been given so many opportunities as a photographer and content creator, and I am beyond grateful.

Website: https://maddisenvmedia.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maddisenvmedia/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maddisen-ferger/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maddisenv.media

Image Credits
Photographer: Maddisen V. Media Makeup Artist: Hannah Debban