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

Hi Mikaela, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always been passionate about photography, and then with the quarantine I had time to pursue this creative endeavor. It has really taken off. Going down a creative path has taught me so much about myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What I am most proud of is finally pursuing my creative side more than ever. I always thought I needed a more practical job, such as studying Education in college, so finally coming terms with that photography is what I love and what I am passionate about definitely took a while. I learned that it’s hard to make a transition into a creative career but it was worth it because I get to wake up everyday and do what I love. I want the world to know that I am passionate about creating a story with my photography. They say a picture is worth a thousand words but I believe, a photograph is worth way more than that. Photography is universal. A person doesn’t have to understand a certain language to interpret a picture. That’s the beauty of what I do. I want everyone to take something different and something they can relate to with every photo I take.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
You can find me at any wine bar in town. I love Sorso at the Scottsdale Quarter and I am a huge fan of Evo in Old Town Scottsdale. My sisters are my best friends and we love our girls night out. But I’m also such a homebody, that most nights I stay in and enjoy a glass of wine while watching my favorite reruns of “Friends.”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shoutout my sisters and my parents who have always supported me and encourage me to chase my dreams.

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

Image Credits
These are all of my original photos.

Nominate someone: ShoutoutArizona 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.