MENU

the scenic route

My dad was a big fan of the scenic route. It was a running joke in our family. As a kid, it drove me nuts because it usually just meant more time in the car, but as an adult I fully understand it. It’s funny how the little things in our childhood can shape our adulthood so much.

I live for the scenic route these days. In many ways, I feel like I took the scenic route on my journey into being a photographer. I ventured into several other worlds before I drove full throttle into this one, and fortunately I feel it all prepared me for where I am now.

I have been taking pictures my entire life, but learning how to run a business is no joke. It’s hard work, it’s 24/7 and being successful has a lot to do with people liking you. But I want to take a moment to share something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately. Something I’ve learned is very important.

Boundaries. Set them and stick to them. Know your worth. Stay true to your vision. These are my mantras as of late.

I cannot tell you how much bad business advice I have received over the years, it’s really wild. Often times I would even take it and apply it, and quickly (er, sometimes not so quickly) learn that it was just not working for me. It wasn’t until this year, my ninth year in business, that things have become pretty crystal clear.

The more I go with my gut, the more my business thrives. Even if that means saying no. As a people pleaser, that has been a very hard thing to learn how to do. But I am learning, and it feels really good.

Here is a session that made me feel all the feels, with a family that shares my love for the scenic route.

MEET LEYNA

Hello! I am so glad you're here. Thank you for taking the time to look at my work. There are few things in this world that make me happier than taking pictures. For me, the purest joy comes with creating art from everyday life.

 

Based in Los Angeles, CA

Available for travel worldwide.

CATEGORIES

Follow us

Based in Los Angeles, California
Available for travel worldwide

KEEP in Touch

Be the first to know all the things.

UA-28164526-1