We had the good fortune of connecting with Shaylin Cota and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shaylin, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
While deciding to work for myself was a pivotal moment, the single most important decision that contributed to my success was my commitment to collaboration. My personal and business mission revolves around “Creating & Collaborating,” and I’ve found that the most rewarding experiences have come from working with others.

We often hear that “connections are everything,” but making meaningful connections is a skill. I’ve chosen to surround myself with positive, talented individuals who inspire me and share my values. Instead of viewing other photographers as competition, I’ve sought out opportunities to collaborate. We can learn from each other, support one another, and even benefit from mutual exchanges.

By working with other artists, models, and business owners, I’ve built a strong network of people with diverse talents. Together, we can achieve far more than we could alone. Collaboration has not only enriched my professional life but has also helped me grow personally.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started my business Cota Creative Media to support the creative endeavors of diverse communities. Working with creatives, entrepreneurs, and simply for people who need photos to elevate their visions- CC Media tailors packages for photography & social media management projects. My network of talented and special individuals sets CC Media apart from other companies. Everyone has their own connections; I have gratefully fostered special relationships across the world. I’ve traveled over 10 countries. I worked in Milan, Italy for an exclusive international members club where I met highly respected entrepreneurs in various industries. My family has hosted over 10 exchange students from around the world. I find any chance to connect with the communities around me; my background in photography, social media, and marketing has been a great foundation for me to help these individuals tell their important stories. My network is widely talented and we seek every opportunity to build each other up. Whether I am in Paris, Milan, Lisbon, Rome or Michigan – I’ve found time to help individuals capture photos they can showcase for life. From personal to professional growth, I have seen photography transform and uplift individuals and businesses. I am proud to say that solopreneurship is a challenge I’ve accepted. Early mornings and late nights of branding, business strategy, and YouTube University I’ve found amazing guidance and support from communities around me. Mentors, like-minded solopreneurs, and personal connections have offered me advice when I needed it the most. Building something from nothing and supporting others in the process has made the journey so worth it! If you connect with anything I’ve shared let’s keep up the good energy & let’s Create & Collaborate!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let me know what you like from food to scenery and activities to events, we can craft a fun route around Grand Rapids! I’ve found my perfect routes by exploring the city on foot over the past 4 years. My main route revolves around the heart of the city. Rosa Parks Circle, the Blue Bridge, Gerald Ford Museum Park, the Fishladder, 555 Monroe, and back to the heart is a great route that takes you along the Grand River. You will see families and friends spending quality time together, you will see art, you will see artists in the streets. There is a man who plays the saxophone in the street- he never fails to put a smile on my face. There are small businesses along the way to stop & shop in! Make your way to the outskirts of the city center, there’s so much more. Easttown GR is beautiful, picnic or hammock at Reeds Lake while watching sailboat school. Stop at the local libraries. Enjoy sunset at Lookout Park. Take your dog on a walks at the Ravines. I’ve watched the city build and support various vibrant events and endeavors! I have such a special appreciation for my community. If you visit my Instagram you’ll find tons of content taking you along my adventures around Grand Rapids and the world!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve witnessed my city transform into a vibrant artistic hub ready to celebrate and elevate. Exposure to diverse art forms and chances to connect with other artists have been invaluable. Art Prize, an international art competition I participated in for the first time this year, has inspired me in countless ways and has given me a platform to showcase my work. I’m grateful to our creative community and the artists before me who’ve inspired and made space for me. Supportive environments and endless opportunities have been instrumental in my growth, personally & professionally.

A particular person who helps me stay on track (personally & professionally) is my momager aka my mother. Her support, encouragement, and advice (though I may not always listen the first time around) have been vital to my success and growth. She is the momma bird that pushes her kids out of the nest so they can fly. Never holding me back, offering guidance along any step I need help, I’m beyond grateful for you momager <3

Website: https://CotaCreativeMedia.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaylintessphotography/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaylincota/

Image Credits
Shea Ferguson
Sunny Nayak

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.