We recently had the chance to connect with Amy Cole Bremser and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Amy Cole, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the biggest misconceptions about photography is that it’s as simple as showing up, clicking a button, and the job is done. In reality, the camera is just one tool—what truly matters is the skill behind it. I often hear, ‘Wow, your camera takes great photos!’ which to me is like saying, ‘Your chef’s pots make great food!’ A camera doesn’t create the art on its own, just like a pot doesn’t cook a gourmet meal by itself. You can take beautiful photos with a $20 camera if you understand lighting, composition, and how to use the tools at your disposal. Great photography is a blend of technical skill, creativity, and vision—and that process takes time, experience, and a lot more than just pressing a button.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Amy Cole, the owner of Photography by Amy Cole, where I specialize in capturing authentic, timeless portraits for high school and college seniors, families, and couples across Galveston, Houston, and beyond. My passion lies in creating images that feel natural, genuine, and full of life, giving clients memories they’ll treasure forever.
Alongside my portrait work, I also own Amy Cole Creative LLC, a sister company dedicated to empowering small businesses through impactful marketing content and digital assets. From headshots and branding sessions to social media strategy and management, I help businesses stand out online with visuals that truly reflect their brand.
At the heart of both of my companies is the same goal: to tell meaningful stories through photography and digital content—whether that’s celebrating personal milestones or elevating a brand’s presence in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I can’t point to just one relationship that shaped how I see myself—honestly, it’s been a journey I’ve carved out through trial and error. Growing up, I learned just as much from what didn’t work as from what did. Every chapter of my life, even the difficult ones, has taught me something about resilience, growth, and staying true to myself. I’ve reinvented, refined, and rediscovered who I am many times over, and each stage has brought me closer to the person I was meant to be. That ongoing process of self-discovery is what fuels me both personally and professionally today.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes—there have been many moments where I’ve wondered if it would be easier to walk away and take a “normal” 9–5 job with steady paychecks and fewer challenges. Running your own business can feel like a constant uphill battle, and it’s easy for people to only see the polished success without realizing the sacrifices and struggles that come with it.
But every time I think about giving up, I remember why I started. A traditional job might be easier, but it wouldn’t be fulfilling. I pour my heart and soul into my work because it allows me to create something meaningful—for my clients, for my community, and for myself. The long hours and sacrifices are worth it when I see the impact my art has on others. That’s what keeps me going. Every day I choose to keep showing up, because I believe in what I do.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think one of the biggest lies in the photography and creative industry is the idea that you need the latest gear, the biggest following, or the most high-tech tools to be successful. In reality, it’s not about having the newest camera or chasing every algorithm change—it’s about mastering your craft, working with what you have, and putting in the grit to figure out what makes your work unique.
There are a million different paths to get to the same result, but what truly sets you apart is your ability to find your own voice and niche. You don’t have to be the biggest name or have the most expensive setup to create something powerful—you just have to be authentic and consistent in what you do. That’s where the real magic happens.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I wholeheartedly believe I’m doing what I was born to do—not what I was told to do. Anyone who knows me will tell you I’ve never been the type to follow a path just because someone else says I should. In fact, one of my biggest motivators has always been people telling me I can’t do something. That only fuels me to push harder and prove them wrong.
I remember when I first started college, someone told me I should give up on photography because I’d never survive financially or find stability in it. To me, that was the clearest sign that I had to pursue it—and not just pursue it, but succeed at it. Today, I’m proud to say that I’ve built a business and a life around the very thing people once doubted I could do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.photographybyamycole.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/byamycole
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-bremser-911523157?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/byamycole
Image Credits
Photography by Amy Cole
