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

Hi Mirjana, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am originally from Serbia, a country known for its rich culture and notable athletes like Novak Djokovic and Nikola Jokić. Growing up in Serbia during a challenging period shaped my perspective on life and success.

My childhood was marked by the resilience of my community, which taught me that success is not just a matter of talent but also of hard work, dedication, and honesty. These values have been instrumental in my journey as a photographer. I learned early on that to achieve my goals, I needed to continuously improve myself and my craft.

The struggles I witnessed in my home country instilled in me a deep appreciation for perseverance and creativity. This background has not only influenced my artistic vision but also my approach to business. I strive to capture the beauty in every moment and tell stories through my lens, reflecting the strength and spirit of my upbringing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For me, photography is more than just a job; it’s a passion and a way to capture happiness, emotions, and the moments that define our lives. My brand, Replica Photography, reflects this philosophy—it’s about freezing those precious moments in time so we can revisit them years later and relive the joy they brought us. I focus on movement, feelings, and telling people’s stories through my lens, creating images that resonate on a personal level.

My background in history plays a significant role in my approach to photography. Just as historians strive to capture and preserve the essence of past events, I aim to document the stories and emotions of the present. Each photograph I take is a narrative, a snapshot of a moment that holds meaning and significance.

The journey to where I am today has not been easy. In the beginning, I had to work for free to build my portfolio and struggled to find clients. It was a challenging time, but I learned the importance of patience and hard work. I dedicated myself to improving my craft, honing my skills, and understanding the nuances of photography.

One of the aspects I take pride in is my commitment to delivering photos within 48 hours. I believe that timely delivery enhances the experience for my clients, allowing them to relive their special moments without delay.

Throughout this journey, I have learned valuable lessons about resilience, the power of community support, and the importance of staying true to my vision. I want the world to know that my brand is built on a foundation of passion, dedication, and a genuine desire to connect with people through the art of photography. Each image I create is not just a picture; it’s a piece of history, a moment captured forever.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love that you asked me this question because I’m really hoping my best friend will finally get a chance to visit me! If she does, I can’t wait to show her the beauty of San Diego, starting with my little piece of heaven—Balboa Park. We’d wander through the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, soaking in the culture and snapping photos that capture the essence of the place.

After exploring the park, I’d take her to Coronado Beach, one of my favorite spots. There’s something magical about the sunsets there, and I love photographing families on the sand dunes. We’d spend the evening relaxing on the beach, feeling the warm sand beneath our feet and enjoying the breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.

I’d also plan a picnic at Sunset Cliffs during the golden hour. The scenery is absolutely stunning, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind with delicious snacks while we watch the waves crash against the cliffs. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the beauty of life and the importance of capturing those memories.

For a bit of adventure, we’d hike at Torrey Pines, where the trails offer incredible views of the coastline. I’d love to share my passion for photography with her, capturing the scenic shots along the way and enjoying the fresh air and stunning landscapes.

Of course, we can’t forget about the food! With so many restaurants from all over the world, it would be hard not to gain a few pounds! I’d take her to some of my favorite local spots to indulge in everything from fresh seafood to authentic Mexican cuisine. Each meal would be a celebration of flavors and a chance to bond over good food.

We’d also explore local markets and art galleries, immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture of San Diego. I’d love to introduce her to some local artists and maybe even pick up a unique piece of art to remember the trip.

Finally, we’d take some time to relax, perhaps visiting a spa or enjoying a leisurely brunch at a cozy café. We’d reflect on the week, share our favorite moments, and dream about her next visit. This experience would be a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and connection, showcasing the best of what San Diego has to offer and creating memories that we’ll cherish forever.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my family and close friends, who have been my unwavering support system throughout my journey. Moving to a different continent and transitioning to a new profession was no small feat, and their encouragement has been invaluable.

Despite having a master’s degree in history, I took a leap of faith to pursue my passion for photography, and my loved ones were right there with me every step of the way. During the tough times, they provided the words of encouragement I needed to keep going and never let me give up on my dreams. Their belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration.

I want to give a special thanks to my brother Aleksandar, who gifted me my first serious camera, Nikon D3200. Prior to that, I had a basic camera that allowed me to explore my interest in photography, but it was my brother’s gift that truly elevated my skills and passion. With this new camera, I was able to approach photography with a more serious mindset, opening the door to new opportunities and helping me develop my craft further.

I am truly grateful for the love and support of my family and friends, as they have played a crucial role in shaping my journey as a photographer.

Website: https://www.replicaphotography.org/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Replica-Photography-SD/61561958531932/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal 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.