My Photography Journey

The Roots of My Story

I'm so excited to share my photography journey with you. Born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, as a first-generation Mexican American, my early life was far from the world of art and entrepreneurship. Neither business owners nor college graduates surrounded me, but my mom, in her unique way, was an entrepreneur at heart.

The pressure of pursuing a 'stable' career was a constantly on my mind. As a first-generation daughter, the expectation was clear: go to college and secure a well-paying, reliable job. Creative careers? They were considered a non-option, a direct path to becoming a 'starving artist.'

The Myspace Era

My start with photography began unassumingly in middle school with Myspace. I started taking pictures for my profile, dabbling in what I didn't realize then was my first entrepreneurial venture. Even as I continued to explore photography in high school, the idea of it being a viable career never crossed my mind. The societal pressure to secure a 'stable' career was overwhelming.

I started college aiming for a degree in computer engineering, fueled by my interest in coding. But two years in, I realized it wasn't for me. During this time, photography took a backseat as I juggled two jobs to make ends meet.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

After dropping out of college, I was at a crossroads. I knew nothing about running a business or marketing my services. I took on free sessions, often undervaluing my work, and began promoting my services on Instagram. 2017 was a year of exploration - from maternity shoots to editorials. It was also when I met Jessica, my best friend, who introduced me to wedding photography.

2018 marked a significant shift. I began focusing on weddings, building my portfolio through free sessions, styled shoots, and second shooting. I left my bartending job to dedicate myself to photography and attended my first business workshop.

By 2019, I was fully invested in my journey. I rebranded, devoured every resource I could find on running a business, and hosted my first workshop. This was also the year I took the bold step of dropping out of college to pursue photography full-time.

The Breakthrough: 2020 and Beyond

2020 was transformative. I had my first full-time year in business, hitting my first six-figure income, renting a studio space, and moving into my dream house. I surrounded myself with mentors and like-minded individuals who believed in my vision.

From 2021 to 2023, I expanded my horizons, photographing weddings across states and countries, sharing a studio with Jessica, and achieving a balance between work and life. I also began teaching other photographers the strategies that transformed my business.

My Message to You

My journey from a college dropout to a successful photographer has been unconventional and challenging, but immensely rewarding. My journey is a testament to the power of following your dreams. It wasn't easy, and there were many moments of doubt. But by staying true to myself and persistently working towards my goals, I've been able to create a life and career that I love​​. Photography not only became my career but also a medium through which I express and live my dreams. To those out there wondering if they should pursue their passion: Yes, you should! You're capable of so much more than you think. Start small, stay consistent, and don't be afraid to dream big.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope it inspires you to follow your heart and take that first step towards your dreams!