Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Hernandez
Hi Krystal, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Photography has always been a passion of mine. I’ve been the person who carried a camera everywhere.
My photography journey took a more meaningful turn in 2018 after the passing of my mother. In the wake of her loss, I realized that the only thing I would have left were the memories captured in photos. Each time I look at those images, I’m transported back to happy moments with her, though they also bring a sense of sadness, reminding me of what I’ve lost. This experience inspired me to start my own photography business, Ruby Rose Photography. The name is a tribute to my mother, who loved roses, and my birthstone, which is ruby. The name was thought up with the help of my brother, Anthony Hernandez.
My business model centers on making professional photography accessible to everyone, because I deeply understand the value of having preserved memories once a loved one is gone. Over the years, I’ve continually challenged myself to improve my craft, always seeking to provide quality service that captures both the beauty and emotion of the moment.
Though I was born and raised in the Texas Panhandle, Houston has always felt like a second home. My family is there, and my husband, a veteran, is a Houston native. In 2021, we moved to Virginia Beach, VA, for a job opportunity, but I’ve remained dedicated to my photography. Recently, it’s been a blessing to return to my passion and reconnect with clients. I frequently visit Houston to stay connected with my family, including my brother, who moved there recently. Houston is truly my favorite city, and I am always available for photography services whenever I’m in town. I will never miss an opportunity to fly out to Houston.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My photography journey has not always been easy. In the beginning, building a client base and developing a portfolio was a significant challenge. To gain experience and exposure, I offered free photo shoots and held giveaways. I knew that these efforts were necessary to improve my skills and expand my portfolio. I also took the initiative to approach strangers and ask if I could photograph them, understanding that practice and real-world experience were key to my growth.
When we moved to Virginia, I took a brief hiatus from photography as I found myself essentially starting over in a new area, without an established network or client base. However, after three years in Virginia, I’ve recently been able to reconnect with my passion for photography. In the last few months, my business has gained momentum, and it’s been such a blessing to be back doing something I truly love.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
By day, I work as an ophthalmic technician, but on the weekends, I’m fully immersed in my photography. One of the aspects of photography that I truly strive for is creating an environment where my clients feel at ease, even if we’ve just met. I believe that capturing genuine emotion and the essence of a person comes from making them feel comfortable and like they’ve known me for years. Candid moments are often my favorite to photograph, as they reflect real, unscripted emotions that are precious and authentic.
While I primarily specialize in portrait and landscape photography, I’ve also had the opportunity to photograph a variety of events. Regardless of the subject, I am always grateful for the experiences and the trust my clients place in me. It’s humbling to be chosen to document such important, special moments.
One thing I always carry with me, and that drives my passion, is the memory of my mother. Every photo I take and every shoot I do is a tribute to her. It’s the heart of why I started this journey and continues to motivate me every step of the way.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I would describe myself as a calculated risk-taker. While I am always open to new challenges, I approach them with careful consideration. A prime example of this occurred this past October, when I was offered the opportunity to photograph actors at four different Halloween haunted houses. Night and low-light photography was an area I hadn’t previously explored, but I was eager to take on the challenge. Though it was outside of my usual work, I accepted the job, and the experience proved to be incredibly valuable. It not only pushed me outside of my comfort zone, but it also provided important lessons in handling unique lighting conditions and working with actors in dynamic, fast-paced environments. I’m grateful for the opportunity and feel better prepared should a similar challenge arise in the future.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubyrosephotos21
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rubyrosephotos21
- Other: rubyrosephotos21@gmail.com
Image Credits
Photo of me next to Giant taken by: Anthony Hernandez
Photo of me with downtown skyline taken by: Anthony Hernandez
