Gina Cinardo – Inspired by Family Traditions, Unique Brand Photography, and Capturing Authenticity Through Digital Storytelling | Episode #209

I want to create authentic leaders in the world. And so this helps me make them shine because that’s what we really need.

Gina Cinardo

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Gina Cinardo’s story is one of family artistry, innovation, and brand empowerment. Growing up in a household where photography and creativity thrived, Gina’s father, a commercial photographer, ignited her passion for capturing stories through the lens.

From family photo sessions designed to inspire her mother’s paintings to discovering her own path as a commercial and lifestyle photographer, Gina’s evolution is a compelling blend of tradition and forward-thinking exploration. Her business, Ginici Studios is helping build brands up through compelling portraiture.

Decades later, Gina has thrived in a unique niche in brand photography, where her mission goes far beyond simply taking beautiful pictures. She strives to help her clients uncover their true essence, telling authentic stories that resonate deeply with their audiences.

Gina’s innovative approach to photography combines her technical expertise with a focus on empowering her clients, making them shine with confidence in every image. Her perspective on digital photography is equally inspiring—she seamlessly blends creativity with modern tools, always pushing herself and others toward growth and self-discovery.

Here are three major highlights from our conversation:

• Gina shared how her style has continually evolved, influenced by her beginnings in analog film and her dynamic transition into the digital realm.
  
• Her approach to brand photography reveals how she collaborates with individuals and businesses to visually communicate their unique stories, emphasizing the value of confidence and authenticity.
  
• Gina provided thought-provoking insights on the need for genuine connection in today’s digital-driven world, stressing the importance of staying true to one’s identity in both art and business.

My chat with Gina was an insightful and uplifting experience, as we dove into how she combines creativity, technical skills, and a passion for inspiring others through her work. Her dedication to empowering her clients will leave you rethinking how you interact with yours! Enjoy the episode.

Q: Tell me a little bit about your beginnings in photography.

Gina: I’m from Los Angeles, and my dad was a commercial photographer. I grew up surrounded by art and photography, with family photo shoots that inspired my mom’s paintings. This early exposure introduced me to storytelling through photography.

Q: How do you make a brand portrait truly memorable?

Gina: A dynamic brand portrait captures someone’s true essence. It’s about being natural and less posed, allowing the person’s confidence to shine through. The connection with the audience is key, and I focus on creating a collection of images that tell a cohesive story.

Q: What prompted you to start your own business after working at the glamour studio?

Gina: After managing the glamour studio for over ten years, I wanted to explore freelancing and combine photography with design. I eventually landed a job with the Air Force Research Laboratory, which was a completely different experience, but it helped me refine my skills and led me to start my own business in California.

Key Links and Mentions from the Episode

Connect with Gina Cinardo:
Website
Instagram

People Mentioned:

1. Simon Sinek: Author of Start With Why: Website.
2. Paolo Chicone: Hollywood glamour photographer from the 1930s, and was noted for his portraits.

Places and Locations:

1. Los Angeles, California: The city where Gina is from and an early influence on her journey.
2. Arizona State University: Gina completed her degree in fine art photography at ASU.
3. San Luis Obispo, California: The place where Gina currently is and the location of her studios.
4. Morro Bay, California: The place where Gina used to live before moving to San Luis Obispo.
5. Mesa, Arizona: The place where Gina was an Air Force Research Laboratory graphic artist and photographer.
6. Avila Beach, California: One of Gina’s branding photography shoots took place here.

Tools & Gear:

1. Canon DSLR Cameras: It is the preferred brand of Gina’s camera: Website.
2. Adobe Photoshop: Talked about for editing: Website.
3. MidJourney: Discussed in the context of AI in photography: Website.

Projects & Opportunities:

1. Ginici Studios: Gina’s photography and branding business that uniquely specializes in brand photography and storytelling: Website.
2. Mission Community Services: Women’s Business Center where Gina took a self-employment class and now volunteers as a consultant: Website.
3. Upcoming Branding Photography Contest (2025): Gina will be sponsoring a full branding shoot for one lucky winner that is chosen from the upcoming contest in 2025.

Key Themes Discussed:

1. Transition from Film to Digital: Gina shared how she became a fan of photography and digital photography in particular.
2. Storytelling in Brand Photography: Creating authentic, narrative-driven images to showcase client values.
3. Empowering Confidence: Helping clients feel relaxed and confident during shoots to capture who they really are.
4. Evolving as a Photographer: Gina has evolved as a photographer after doing glamour photography, corporate photography and branding photography.
5. Community Engagement: Gina volunteers as a consultant to the San Luis Obispo community to have locals involved.