Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Velazquez.
Hi Vanessa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My photography story begins in high school when I took a Photojournalism class as an elective. I photographed school events that were featured in the school newspaper and the yearbook. This inspired me to pursue photography in college, which then led me to a graphic design major.
After taking my first job at an advertising agency after college, my employer began to give me photography assignments which put me back on the photography path. After a year of working in a portrait studio, I decided to open my own studio in 2011. Since then I have shifted from studio photography to on-location photography.
In my spare time, I am a youth scout leader and a Texas Master Naturalist. I volunteer for the San Antonio River Authority, Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, and the Alamo Area Texas Master Naturalists. I have been with my wife for 20 years and we love camping, road trips, and specifically traveling to State and National Parks.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has not always been a smooth road. Sometimes, I didn’t know how I was going to pay my bills. It took time to establish myself and to build a network of people who believed in my work. Overall, I feel that collaboration helped my business the most. Working with others always opened new doors and without the support of my fellow entrepreneurs, clients, friends, and family, I would not be in business today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Lifestyle and Commercial Photographer. I specialize in portraiture, event photography, and photojournalism. I’m a bit of a ham so I always bring playful energy to every shoot. Volunteering for various nonprofit organizations is also important to me because it helps me stay connected to the community.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Although there are many, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of collaboration. learning how to have an open mind to new people and ideas has been an important part of my journey. Everyone has something to teach, so partnering with businesses and volunteering is a great way to build a support system of friends and like-minded people that can help you grow your business.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.vanessavelazquez.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessavelphotog_portfolio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vanessavelphotog
Image Credits
Vanessa Velazquez Photography
