Sin Miedo Al Exito
As a Latina entrepreneur, Rocio Rivera has authentically stayed true to herself and her proud Mexican roots, often bringing cultural elements and warm tones into her powerful, rich photography. As we like to say in Spanish, “tiene un Don.” While some might see her as a wedding and lifestyle photographer, she’s quick to share her refusal to be placed in a box and label herself—she simply captures moments in time. As you scroll through her Instagram page, you can’t help but feel warm inside.
Introduced to photography in high school, Rocio knew she was hooked the moment she realized it was the one class she didn’t want to ditch. She actually looked forward to visiting the dark room! Unapologetic and sin miedo al exito, she sets the tone early on so people don’t get it twisted: photography is not about the money. This talentosa y poderosa mujer might have built an entire business around her passion, but at the end of the day that’s exactly what it is—a passion that gives her the ability to express herself and do what she loves day in and day out. As a first generation Latina who’s witnessed her parents endure back-breaking vineyard work, she doesn’t shy away from understanding that if life was about making money she could easily hustle and do something completely different. However, life is about being fulfilled—and for this talented, successful, and well-known Chingona the ultimate vision of a life fulfilled is simple. Her dream in focus? Moving to Mexico to manage a small coffee shop where she spends her days taking pictures for pleasure, mentoring students (something she started doing the pandemic), and providing a space for people to network.
In this episode, we unpack what it’s like being first gen, having to navigate our parent’s expectations of our future versus pursuing what we wholeheartedly desire, toxicity within our culture, and Rocio’s many successes (Did you know she was named as Solano County’s Best Photographer twice?!). We acknowledge how our culture has always placed a special importance on echandole ganas and hustling (mostly out of necessity), while realizing we must also choose and remember to not just work hard, but play harder and truly enjoy all of life’s moments.
Dive in, take a big sip, and learn more about the photographer friend you never knew you needed in your life! Follow along on Instagram @rociorivera and reach out for questions or to book your next session at rociorivera.photo@gmail.com
