Meet Olesia Matiushchenko | Owner, Sphere Photo

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

Hi Olesia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My journey began in the IT industry, where I led engineering teams to develop exceptional software products. As an experienced project manager, I always dreamed of spearheading my own venture and creating something truly extraordinary. This aspiration recently took a tangible form when I stumbled upon the concept of self-portrait photo studios. Intrigued and inspired, I decided to infuse my own vision into this idea. Thus, Sphere Photo Studio was born—a space where people can authentically express themselves and where content creators can find a one-stop shop for producing high-quality content without breaking the bank.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Sphere Photo, we bring an innovative concept to the photoshoot. The concept revolves around a meticulously designed studio experience. Upon arrival, individuals are guided to a specially curated room where they prepare themselves for the session. They then proceed to a private photo zone featuring a strikingly large mirror, state-of-the-art lighting, and a discreetly positioned professional camera. This setup ensures an immersive experience where the focus remains solely on self-reflection and self-expression. Utilizing a user-friendly clicker, individuals can capture a myriad of images, embracing their authentic selves without inhibition.

Over the course of a year, the journey from idea to implementation unfolded with careful precision. My aim was to meticulously curate every aspect, ensuring excellence from the studio’s interior design to the seamless photoshoot process and the prompt delivery of professionally edited photos—all while maintaining affordability for our audience. To achieve this, I handpicked top-tier designers, photographers, and contractors, assembling a team of experts dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality and creating a welcoming studio atmosphere.

Of course, we still face some challenges. One ongoing challenge, for example, is educating the people of San Diego about this concept. I truly believe that by fostering a culture of self-confidence and empowerment, and by challenging traditional beauty norms, we can encourage individuals to embrace their unique value. On the other side we provide a professional though affordable space which is a solution for the needs of content creators.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting San Diego for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best the city has to offer. We’d start our days with delicious breakfasts at iconic spots like The Cottage La Jolla and Richard Walker’s Pancake House. Exploring the stunning coastline would be a priority, with snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, relaxing at La Jolla Shores Beach, and catching breathtaking sunsets at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

Downtown adventures would include a visit to the USS Midway Museum, followed by wandering through Seaport Village and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. We’d enjoy incredible dinners at places like George’s at the Cove and Cucina Urbana, then dive into the vibrant nightlife at the Gaslamp Quarter’s bars and clubs, such as Altitude Sky Lounge.

A day spent at Balboa Park would be a must, exploring museums like the San Diego Museum of Art and The San Diego Natural History Museum, with a lunch break at Panama 66. A visit to Coronado Island would include lounging at Coronado Beach, exploring the Hotel del Coronado, and savoring seafood at Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar.

We’d venture to North County for the San Diego Botanic Garden and the Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens, enjoying meals at Honey’s Bistro & Bakery and Pacific Coast Grill. A day trip to Julian would offer a charming small-town experience, with apple pies, local shops, and hikes at William Heise County Park, capped off with wine tasting in the Ramona Valley.

Outdoor adventures would continue with a kayaking tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves and a hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. We’d end our days with unforgettable dinners at spots like The Marine Room and Mister A’s, which offer stunning views and exceptional cuisine. Through these experiences, we’d immerse ourselves in the vibrant, diverse, and beautiful tapestry that makes San Diego such an incredible place to visit.

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?
Firstly, my family has been my rock. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and dreams has been a constant source of motivation. I also owe a lot to the local entrepreneurs’ network. This group has provided invaluable advice, support, and camaraderie, which have been instrumental in navigating the challenges of starting a business. Additionally, the book “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek profoundly influenced my approach to business and leadership. It helped me clarify my purpose and vision for Sphere Photo Studio. Finally, I want to acknowledge my team at Sphere Photo Studio. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work are the backbone of our success.

To all these people and influences, I dedicate this shoutout. Their support, mentorship, and encouragement have been crucial to my journey.

Website: spherephoto.com

Instagram: sphere_photo

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