my name is massiel ventura and most people call me massi (mass-ee). i’m the 28-year-old afro-caribbean face behind the lens. i was born and raised in Passaic county, New Jersey. unknowingly, my passion for creative visuals and fashion began as a kid collaging in my room and watching ANTM (america’s next top model). growing up, i always had an inclination for collaging images and awing over humanity and its' diversity.
in 2014, i began my journey with photography through a college course where i bought my first Canon camera. at the time, i was studying towards becoming a mental health worker. i graduated with a bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Science and continued on with my work in the mental health field. photography as a hobbyist still.
in 2020, i realized that i wanted to live more expressive in my versatility, more creatively, and more awed in my connections with people. i found myself choosing this work for just that! so in May of that year— i decided to start this photography venture and began teaching myself the work from a foundational level. i placed my camera in front of anything that caught my eye which quickly led me to going from a hobbyist to an enthusiast to a business owner.
i have not stopped learning since i picked up my camera and i enjoy bringing a smile on people's faces. through my work, i've enjoyed embracing various niches. in the last 4 years, i've expanded around cities in New Jersey and NYC shooting street fashion, editorial, and anything creative i can put together like it’s magic. i love what i do and i'm here for the good vibes only....
(february 2023)