About Me
Hi, my name is Christiam Martinez, and I am truly glad you are here. Thank you for taking a moment to learn more about me. I was born in Honduras and have called Minnesota home since 2005. I am the second oldest of four siblings, and outside of photography, some of my favorite things are writing music and spending meaningful time with the people I love.
I hold two Bachelor of Arts degrees in Business Administration and Pastoral Studies from North Central University in Minneapolis. My education and faith have deeply shaped the way I approach both creativity and people, grounding my work in intention, excellence, and care.
My journey with photography began in college with a simple dream of seeing my work featured in Apple’s “Shot on iPhone” campaigns. Since then, that curiosity has grown into opportunities to partner with brands such as Ivy Longboards, Penny Skateboards, Therapy Clothing Co., Travco, and Professor Pickleball. Along the way, I have also had the privilege of second shooting weddings with local photographers, photographing fashion shows, and contributing to photo editing teams for brands like Rag + Bone NY.
Each experience has refined my craft and introduced me to incredible artists and stories.
Those who know me would describe me as outgoing, creative, approachable, and detail oriented, with a good sense of humor mixed in. I value professionalism deeply, but I also believe the best photos come from genuine moments, real connection, and an environment where you feel comfortable being yourself.
My goal is to make your day feel effortless and enjoyable. I bring high energy, a positive presence, and a calm attention to detail so nothing feels overlooked. I am always looking for ways to serve you well, anticipate needs, and help create a smooth and joyful wedding day experience.
I would love to hear your story and have the honor of walking alongside you on such a meaningful day.
HOW WE GOT
OUR NAME
Refined to Redefine was born from a story of redemption.
The phrase itself comes from a deep belief that who we are today is the result of who God has been shaping us to become. Scripture often speaks of refinement. Of being purified by fire, not to destroy us, but to reveal what is already valuable. To be refined is to be shaped with intention, and in that process, we are invited to redefine how we see ourselves, our stories, and our purpose.
Refined to Redefine officially began in July of 2021 as a personal blog, a space where I; Christiam, could openly share my heart, faith journey, life lessons, and the process of growth God was walking me through. In business terms, it was centered around personal growth and leadership development. In reality, it was about learning to live from identity rather than performance. Understanding that refinement isn’t punishment, but preparation.
On July 17, 2021, that idea took a leap forward. With a background in graphic design and a growing passion for photography, I stepped out in faith and launched Refined to Redefine as a creative company, choosing to steward the gifts God had given me and build a living from creativity rooted in purpose.
As the vision grew, the name remained. Refined to Redefine became the umbrella for everything we do. Each expression carrying the same heart. From that, Refined to Redefine Weddings was created: a wedding photography brand that doesn’t just document a day, but honors people, stories, and the sacred decision to join two lives into one. We believe weddings are more than events; they are moments of covenant, legacy, and transformation.
More recently, Refined to Redefine expanded into clothing!!! Designed not simply to be worn, but to be worn with intention. Each piece is created to spark conversation, point back to identity in Christ, and reflect the truth that Jesus doesn’t just forgive us, He redefines us.
At its core, Refined to Redefine is about this:
People shaped by grace, walking boldly in who they were designed to be and activating their stories to point others to something greater. Jesus.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICAH GREUEL (CONTRACT PHOTOGRAPHER)