Today we’d like to introduce you to Zach Panzeca.
Hi Zach, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2014, I took the first step in my photography journey by buying my very first camera. I began by hiking and capturing the beauty of nature. At the same time, I started photographing a few family portraits and senior sessions, quickly realizing that I had a deep passion for working with people. Connecting with my clients and creating genuine, meaningful galleries for them became something I truly loved.
Fast forward to April 2018, when I was given an incredible opportunity to work as a photographer for a video production company. I thought I had hit the jackpot! But, as it turns out, the job didn’t quite live up to my expectations. The pay was low, I was on-call 24/7, and the working environment wasn’t great. Despite this, I learned so much about myself, the industry, and—most importantly—how to shoot in manual mode.
By the end of that experience, I had a pivotal moment of self-reflection. I looked at myself in the mirror and said, “I can do this. I can build something on my own that I love and look forward to every single day.”
And that’s exactly what I did.
In March 2020, the pandemic hit, and my full-time job let me go without hesitation. During that time, I began reaching out to friends and contacts, offering to photograph them. From March 15th to March 30th, I messaged anyone who might be interested—and that’s when things started to shift. Word of mouth spread, my work began to get noticed, and I started to build a community around my photography.
By the middle of 2020, I had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and turning my passion into a photography brand that others were excited to support. For the first time in my life, I had created something people loved. I poured my heart and soul into every project, determined to build something meaningful.
Between 2020 and 2022, I traveled the world, hosted a body-positive retreat in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and led my very own photography workshop in Cincinnati, where photographers from all over the U.S. gathered to learn from me.
Now, in 2025, I’m thrilled to say that since reopening my business, I’ve already booked two weddings and over 65 sessions! I’m excited to see my business grow even more, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s never a smooth road to be honest. But I’m blessed where I am today. Everything happens for a reason. All that matters is I’m happy now doing what I love and providing the best service for my clients.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in wedding photography and male boudoir, capturing authentic, meaningful moments that reflect each person’s unique story. Showcasing them in their best light. What I’m most proud of is the deep connections I build with my clients—getting to know them on a personal level and creating a comfortable, trusting environment that allows their true selves to shine.
What really sets me apart is my personality and the genuine time I invest in each relationship. I don’t just show up with a camera—I ask questions, I listen, and I care. That connection makes all the difference in the final images and in the experience itself.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be family trips to the beach.
Pricing:
- Wedding Photography starts at 1800
- Male Boudoir starts at $380 for one hour
- Portrait Sessions start at $250
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @zach_panzeca
