Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriella Colon.
Hi Gabriella, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was first got introduced to photography at the age of 16. I was part of a yearbook class and I was put in the photographer position. The moment I started learning about photography in this class, I instantly fell in love with it. I loved being able to capture unique moments, laugh, smiles, and excitement on my classmates’ faces at the football games. The first camera I ever learned to shoot on was a Canon Rebel T6.
Within my yearbook class, I was able to develop my skills in editing as well: developing skills in programs such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Every chance I got, I signed up to take pictures at our various sports games. I loved taking pictures in action and sought every opportunity to grow my photography skills. The summer before my senior year, my uncle gifted me my first very own camera: a Nikon D7000.
I started practicing more, doing free photoshoots for friends and family. I had the honor of being able to take my brother and sister-in-law’s engagement photos and have since then had the honor of taking their pregnancy announcement photos as well. I continued taking photos for my school’s yearbook into my senior year of high school. I even had the honor of achieving one of my biggest goals while in the yearbook: having one of my photos featured as a headline page in the school’s yearbook.
Once I graduated from high school, I decided to start my photography business that summer. I did a few bookings here and there for people at my church, close friends, and family. I continued to develop my skills in shooting and editing photos by watching videos, finding tips online, and learning from other professional photographers. Through trial and error, I have become proficient in both skills of taking and editing photos.
Over the years, I have had the honor of taking photos at various events: pregnancy announcements, family portraits, business portraits, bridal showers, birthday portraits, birthday parties, and so much more. I believe in capturing photos with excellency because I believe what the word of God says in 1 Corinthians 10:31 that we should do everything to glorify God. I thank God for everything I have been able to accomplish as a photographer and how I have been able to grow my passion and turn it into a business where I can bless others with photos that capture the essence of their visions.
I thank my family for supporting me and always encouraging me to follow my dreams and work hard to achieve them. Today I am still growing my small business and I continuously work on learning more about photography and editing so that I can continue to do things with excellency and provide my clients with the best photos possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not always been easy, but what business is! It has not always been easy owning a small business, while also juggling other responsibilities such as: working full time, being in college full time, juggling responsibilities at my church, and also working on my music career as an upcoming Christian artist. Now that I have graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree, I have had more free time and flexible time for my clients. It was also a struggle getting bookings in the beginning and sometimes it still is!
As small business owners, we rely a lot on word of mouth and people sharing our businesses with others. Although it has not been an easy road, it definitely is one that was worth it. Being able to see the joy on my client’s faces when they receive their photos has been the best reward for this long road. And with God, all things are possible!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Aside from photography, I am currently working as a case manager at a clinic here in Houston. I love to serve my community, and helping others is another one of my passions and this is one of the best ways that I can do this. I help connect others with the healthcare they need and I help make sure they stay connected to their medical care. Moreover, I am also in the process of applying for graduate school so I can get my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
My goal is to become a Counselor to help others navigate the highs and lows of life. One thing I am most proud of is that I am also an upcoming artist. I am proud because it has also been a dream of mine to record music to glorify God and let others know about Jesus and what He has done for me. Everything I do is to bring glory to Him. Something that sets me apart from others is that I am very driven, dedicated, and passionate in everything that I do. I am very outgoing and friendly and I love to meet new people!
We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as not giving up. Many people count success as the number of things you are able to achieve. I think true success comes from working hard to not giving up on the things you are more passionate about.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gabriellacolonphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabriellacolonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabriellacolonphotography
