Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Nguyen.
Mary, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
When I was about fifteen, I began working as a photography studio mentee at Artists For Humanity, a local non-profit that employees young people in the arts with on-the-job training. There, I was able to learn both analog film and digital photography as well as develop experience in the business world.
When I was in college, I was lucky enough to take over the same photography studio that taught me my trade. After that, I fell in love with working with young people and mentoring. Several years later, I am still freelancing in photography and photography directing, in addition to the managing and mentoring at Artists For Humanity!
Has it been a smooth road?
I am the first person in my family to be born in the US after my family immigrated from Vietnam after the war. Growing up in Dorchester (without a lot of resources) made the thought of being able to afford art supplies or equipment seemly impossible. I was lucky enough to have those resources provided to me at Artists For Humanity to jump-start my career.
The teens that I mentor now come from similar economic backgrounds and neighborhoods as I do, and I see a lot of my peers and myself in them. The advice I give them, especially the young women I work with, is to stand strong with your boundaries whether it’s in friendships, family, relationships or business.
I think women are often harshly criticized when they do not yield to other people’s demands and when they set strong boundaries for themselves. My advice would be to not apologize for putting yourself first and for carving out the path you want, how you want it.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Mary Tran Nguyen’s story. Tell us more about the business.
I am doing a lot more photography directing and managing these days, but I like to document life with a mixture of whimsy and grit. I specialize in commercial and fine art work for private and corporate clients.
I am most proud of the work I do with youth where I can help empower them to find their own artistic voices. I want them to gain confidence in their ability to be working professional artists, regardless of their age or backgrounds.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I am obsessed with Notability, a note-taking app that I use on my iPad Pro. It’s great for students or anyone who does a lot of note taking. It’s especially great for someone like myself who manages a team of photographers. I’m able to upload client PDF’s and then mark up/annotate photos and documents that need to be edited. From there it can be easily sent to my team so we’re all aware of which edits need to be done.
If you are a compulsive list-maker and an agenda-lover like me, you will appreciate this app!
Contact Info:
- Website: marytrannguyen.com
- Email: info@marytrannguyen.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/_marynguyen
Image Credit:
Reebok Classics in Union Square, New York
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