Meet Valerie

Hi, I’m Valerie Ortiz but you can call me Val!

Before working for Priscilla Green Photography (PGP), I was actually on my way to becoming a veterinarian. I graduated from North Carolina State University (Go Pack!) with a Bachelors of Science in Animal Science in May 2019 and my dream was to do a dual DVM/PhD degree and become a professor in Veterinary Medicine, so I was working in a Public Health lab then a veterinary research lab at NC State’s Vet School but I was not happy. The industry wasn’t a good fit for me as a very creative, empathetic, and artistic person. So after much deliberation, I decided that life is too short to be unhappy. Thus, in October 2023, I left my veterinary career behind and pursued a new dream!

During COVID, I had started to develop an interest in photography and was exploring more about the industry, even doing some photoshoots with friends and clients on the side since early 2022. I really loved working with people and making them feel comfortable and beautiful in front of the camera, and I love the transformative nature of photography. To take a simple photo and turn it into a work of art that tells a story, your story, what could be more fulfilling than that? My editing style is more nostalgic, poetic, and cinematic than modern contemporary.

I’ve been at PGP since February 2024 and have been loving it ever since! You’ll see me at your session fixing your hair, managing lighting, and being Priscilla’s right-hand gal. I’ve also been working on my editing and marketing skills so that, with time, I’ll also be the one to manage and edit your photos too!

A little bit about me is that I’m Latina and my parents are from Puerto Rico and Peru. I’m from Raleigh, North Carolina but I am originally from Miami, Florida. I have a fur baby named Charlie that is a chihuahua/terrier mix that I (shamefully) spoil rotten. I’m also a stained glass/lampworking artist and love to hike, travel, and read! Any chance to work on a project that gets my hands dirty, whether it be upcycling some vintage furniture or plants some new flowers in my garden, I’m your gal!

Fun fact: I’ve backpacked through Iceland solo for an entire month, and two weeks of that in a campervan. My dream destination to travel is Peru, and I’d love to backpack there one day to get to know more about my heritage and culture! :)