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Hidden Gems: Meet Christina Smith Smith of Christina Marie Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Smith Smith.

Hi Christina Smith, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I fell in love with photography when I got my first point and shoot camera for my 10th birthday. Growing up I kept getting new cameras and using my friends as models. I didn’t get a professional camera till COVID, I had lost touch with my hobby while raising a family but the COVID shut downs gave me a chance to pick up where I left off. I started practicing every day and taking mentor lessons from established photographer Asia Croson. She not only gave me a head start on how to use a professional camera but gave me mentorship on how to start my photography business. It took off from there, to only doing at location photoshoots to opening my own studio in Downtown Paso Robles.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been up and down for sure. Some years I did really great but when I had my two last children I struggled with post-partum depression and it affected my business and ability to take on clients. I’m advocate for mental health because of my own struggles and am open about my story.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I offer photo and video services for engagements, proposals, maternity, grad sessions, weddings and events. I specialize in portraits and weddings. I don’t just tell you how to pose but I guide my clients with prompts and examples. I have a really down to earth energy that makes people feel comfortable and confident. Which in turn creates amazing photos.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Paso Robles is a beautiful wine country town. We offer alot for such a small town. Coming from L.A. I wish we had more concerts.

Pricing:

  • Portraits start at $300
  • Wedding prices for 6 hours of coverage start at $3,000

Contact Info:

Group of five people standing outdoors on a sunny day, with a vineyard in the background.

Woman and young girl sitting together, smiling, woman in yellow dress, girl in white dress with yellow pattern, holding hands.

A couple in wedding attire stands on a boat deck near water, embracing and looking at each other during sunset.

Person in graduation gown smiling outside a building with a sign reading 'Cultural and...'.

Pregnant woman in white dress standing outdoors with mountain and desert landscape in background.

Bride and groom embrace outdoors with mountains and blue sky in background, bride wearing veil and wedding dress, groom in suit, holding a bouquet.

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