Ali Kizginyurek shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Ali , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Who are you learning from right now?
Right now, I’m learning from a combination of experiences. As a Fine Art Digital Photography student at Arizona State University, I’m inspired daily by my professors and peers who challenge me to see photography in new and innovative ways. At the same time, I learn from every client I work with—whether it’s a wedding, a portrait, or a fashion shoot, each person brings their own story, and capturing that story teaches me something new about human connection. And finally, I never stop learning from the great masters of photography and contemporary artists whose work reminds me why I fell in love with this craft in the first place.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ali Kizginyurek, and I am the founder of Elio Photography, a Houston-based photography company. My journey with photography started when I was only 14 years old in Turkey, and over the years it has taken me to New York, Paris, and Miami before I made Houston my home about twelve years ago.
At Elio Photography, we specialize in portrait, wedding, and fashion photography, but what makes us unique is our philosophy: every photo should not only capture a moment, but also tell a story. I combine my professional experience with my academic studies at Arizona State University’s Fine Art Digital Photography program, which allows me to blend artistic vision with technical expertise.
What truly inspires me is connecting with people—every client has a unique personality, energy, and story, and my goal is to bring that out in every image. Whether it’s a bride on her wedding day, a professional seeking a portrait, or a fashion shoot, I strive to create photographs that feel timeless, emotional, and meaningful.
Elio Photography isn’t just about pictures—it’s about creating memories and art that last.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I used to believe that success only came from following the “safe” or traditional path. Growing up, I thought being an artist wasn’t realistic—that photography could only be a hobby, not a real profession. Over time, through experience and courage, I learned that passion can become a career if you dedicate yourself fully. Today, I no longer see photography as a dream that’s “too big,” but as my life’s work. That shift in belief has been the most transformative part of my journey.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
No, i never truly gave up. I’m stubborn in the best possible way: even on my slowest days my mind is working, sketching the next shoot, a new concept, or a fresh way to connect with a subject. There have been hard moments, but I treat them as pauses, not endings. That determination — paired with curiosity — is what keeps Elio Photography moving forward.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would tell you that what really matters to me is connection. I show it in small ways: turning up for people, remembering details of their lives, and being present when it counts. Professionally, that translates to the way I approach a shoot — I’m more interested in drawing out someone’s story than staging a perfect pose. They’d also say integrity matters to me: I follow through on commitments, I’m honest about what I can deliver, and I’d rather do one meaningful project well than several that feel hollow. Finally, they’d mention curiosity — I’m always learning, always planning the next idea, and that restless creativity is as much a part of me as loyalty to the people I love.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
f I had just ten years, I wouldn’t stop working — I’d stop doubting. I’d stop wasting time on things that don’t serve my art or my relationships. Instead, I would take all the experiences I’ve collected over the years — from starting out as a 14-year-old in Turkey, to working in New York, Paris, and Miami, to building Elio Photography in Houston — and pour them into bigger projects. One of my lifelong dreams is to direct films. I’d aim to complete at least three films in that time, each one a reflection of the stories, emotions, and human connections that have shaped my journey. To me, that would be the ultimate way of honoring the time I have left: by turning life into legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alikizginyurek.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eliophotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikizginyurek/
- Twitter: https://x.com/kizginyurek
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eliophotography
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNVbhaUgsCcVgDrZIbJhiXQ
- Other: https://www.eliophotography.com
Image Credits
Photos Credit: Ali Kizginyurek/Elio Photography LLC
