We’re looking forward to introducing you to Franchelle Young. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Franchelle, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
The business behind the lens.
While most people recognize me as a photographer, what often goes unseen is everything that I manage behind the scenes. I’m the photographer, the editor, social media manager, content creator, client manager…and the list keeps growing. I design my own promotional materials, write my contracts, schedule sessions, and handle all client communication from start to finish. It’s me that’s responding to every email and DM. Every detail, every touchpoint. Every aspect of my business is self-managed and self-taught. The behind-the-scenes work can be mentally taxing and fast-paced and at times and it can feel like my mind is running in a hundred different directions. It’s a constant balancing act for sure but even in the chaos, I’ve found purpose and fulfillment and it gives me a reason to keep going!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Franchelle Young — the owner and creative force behind Excusemyflicks Photography, based in Houston, Texas and serving the greater Houston area.
I’m a freelance photographer with a passion for capturing people, stories, and moments in ways that are real, expressive, and bold.
With over two years of experience in portrait, event, and commercial photography, I focus on both the technical and emotional side of the craft. From acquiring natural and studio lighting to delivering thoughtful edits that bring each image to life, I think of every detail. I love capturing things by nature, which helps me create images that not only look beautiful but also reflect the authenticity and energy of the moment.
What makes my brand unique is that it’s not just about the photo — it’s about the full experience. I strive to create a comfortable, creative space for my clients while managing every part of the process with care, from planning, communication, to post-production.
Right now, I’m focused on growing my portfolio, building connections in the creative industry, and collaborating with brands, publications, and teams that value storytelling through visuals. Whether it’s a bold editorial shoot, a milestone event, or an everyday moment turned magical — I aim to capture it with intention, style, and heart.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I had to choose one thing. One path, one passion, or one career and stick to it forever. I thought that success only came from staying in one lane and mastering a single field. As I am growing, I realized It’s okay to build a life that blends multiple passions, skills, and interests and you don’t have to put yourself in a box or follow a traditional formula to be successful. There’s power in creating your own lane, defining your own version of success, and giving yourself the freedom to evolve.
That mindset shift has been extremely freeing, it’s opened the door for me to pursue my photography business, and has allowed me to grow creatively and professionally in ways I never expected or anticipated.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Funny enough, I almost gave up before I even got started. For a long time, I thought I had to stick to one specific lane or industry. I constantly questioned myself. Thinking: “Is there anything else I’m good at?” “What’s my purpose?” “What am I really called to do?”
I would look at other business owners on social media and think, “That looks amazing… but is it really like that behind the scenes?” I told myself that everyone isnt built to run a business, and maybe that included me. I was doubting myself before I had even given myself a real chance.
Its a common saying, but you truly do miss all the shots you don’t take. I had to push past the fear, the comparison, and the overthinking to see what I was capable of. Once I finally gave myself permission to try, everything started to fall into place. I’m so glad I didn’t let self-doubt stop me before the journey even began.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
One belief that’s stuck with me since childhood comes from my background in dance. I used to hear, “Even if we’re just in practice, you do it full out.” That saying has become a core belief for me. If you’re going to go for something, you do it full out and do the best of your ability as much as you can. Growth takes time, and it isn’t always instant but the more you push, the more you challenge yourself, and the more consistent you are, the more you’ll grow. When pursuing anything or accomplishing a goal, you have to start with the right intention. That includes even when you’re still learning, unsure, and not perfect or fully “ready”. But, you just have to show up and give it everything you’ve got, even if it takes a while.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Of course every single day isn’t necessarily a “tap dance” kind of day — but there have absolutely been moments in my photography journey that have filled me with that kind of excitement and joy. Some of the most fulfilling days are when I’m shooting, connecting with my clients, laughing, hyping them up, and watching them light up in front of the camera. I love capturing those genuine moments. Whether it’s a family shoot, business headshots, branding content for a new business, or something more creative, it’s very heartwarming to me to be able to connect with so many different people. I’ve also had the opportunities to work with some amazing organizations and community figures here in Houston, like Women in Maritime Operations, US United Pageant Winners, Prey Houston, Life Community Church, and more. Getting to walk into those spaces with my camera and be trusted to visually represent their story or mission — that’s a “tap dancing” kind of feeling for sure.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @excusemyflicks
- Facebook: @excusemyflicks
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Elevated Views Photography
