Today we’d like to introduce you to Claret Alcala Collins.
Hi Claret, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a Venezuelan American creative, and my journey in the U.S. began in 2013 when I moved here as an international student to attend the University of Central Arkansas. In 2018, I graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking and a minor in Marketing.
Right out of college, I stepped into the world of public television as a TV producer at Arkansas PBS. Storytelling has always been at the center of everything I do, whether through video, still images, or aerial work, and my time there deeply shaped the way I approach my craft. I had the opportunity to produce meaningful projects that served our community, and one of them received national recognition at the Public Media Awards during its 52nd annual celebration. After that, I transitioned into the advertising world for a short time, gaining experience on the agency side and sharpening my understanding of brand strategy and messaging. Soon after, I stepped into the role of Marketing Director at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub.
There, I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside a dynamic community of creatives, makers, and small business owners. Being surrounded by people who were building bold ideas from the ground up inspired me every single day and deeply influenced the way I approach storytelling, entrepreneurship, and community.
I launched my photography business in 2021 as a side job, balancing it alongside my full time career. In the beginning, I said yes to a variety of projects, allowing myself the space to explore and discover what truly resonated. Over time, I realized I felt most energized when working with brands, business owners, and organizations that needed thoughtful, intentional visuals to clearly communicate who they are and what they stand for. That clarity naturally led me into commercial work, where I could combine branding, storytelling, and strategy to create imagery that does more than look beautiful. It communicates with purpose.
In August 2024, I decided to take my business full time. I was scared, but deep down I knew it was the right step. Everything I learned in television, filmmaking, and marketing now shapes how I work. I’m not just creating photos or videos. I’m helping people tell their stories in a way that feels honest and true.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road, but I don’t mean that in a negative way. I truly believe that when you start something new, there are always going to be bumps, especially in the beginning, and that’s actually a good thing because it pushes you to think differently and get creative. I’ve learned that where there’s a little chaos, there’s also room for creativity and possibility (I learned this from my mom).
One of the biggest struggles I’ve had, and honestly sometimes still deal with, is the pressure to have a “niche.” I’ve always heard people say, “Oh, you have to niche down,” but I never fully understood why. I get that it can be easier to become a master of one thing rather than a jack of all trades, and that you don’t want to confuse your audience or potential clients about what you offer. But I’ve never liked being put in a box.
I’m very multifaceted and love exploring different industries, projects, and ways of working with brands. I truly believe that trying new things and not being afraid to experiment is one of the best ways to learn about yourself and grow. It’s how you figure out what really resonates and what you’re capable of, even if it doesn’t fit neatly into a single label.
I’ve been really blessed to have an incredible community of friends and mentors I can turn to for help. Having people around who have been there and done that has made such a difference. They offer advice, encouragement, and perspective, and they remind me that I don’t have to figure everything out on my own.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a photographer, filmmaker, and licensed drone pilot. I specialize in helping brands, business owners, and organizations tell their stories through visuals that are intentional, thoughtful, and true to who they are. I work across branding photo and video, event photo and video, and documentary-style videography.
What I’m most proud of is building a business that reflects my values and allows me to work with clients in a way that feels collaborative and meaningful. I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built and the businesses I’ve been able to support through my work.
I don’t really like the question “what sets me apart” because I don’t think I’m better than anyone. Creative work is very subjective, and I believe every creative adds value to the industry and to their clients’ work through their own perspective and eye, and there is absolutely space for all of us! That said, what my clients seem to appreciate most about working with me is my multifaceted approach. I don’t just create photos or videos… I think about strategy, narrative, and connection. I’m always looking for ways to challenge myself creatively, experiment, and help clients communicate clearly and authentically.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is feeling like I’m doing something meaningful and purposeful. I honestly don’t enjoy working on projects that feel too “salesy” because I believe that no one is going to invest in a brand if they don’t first feel some connection to the person behind it. That’s especially true for small businesses.
It lights me up when clients open up to me and share the real reasons they started their businesses. I’ve heard stories like, “Nobody thought I could do this, and here I am, doing it and hoping to inspire others,” or, “I’m doing this for my children,” or, “I’m a cancer survivor, and I want to go after the things that give me purpose.” Those moments make the work feel so much bigger than just photography or video because they remind me why I love what I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.claretalcala.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claretalcalaphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claretalcalaphotography/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claretalcalacollins/
Image Credits
Claret Alcala Photography LLC
