Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Gonzalez.
Alyssa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I initially was interested in photography after watching a close family friend take photos. In high school, I had the opportunity to join a film photography class and that friend actually bought me my first film camera. I absolutely loved everything about film photography. A few years later I mentored with my friend for years, my brother bought me my first digital camera and I took off with photography as a hobby and continued doing so till present day. After my mother bought me my next camera, I realized I wanted to make this my career. Then, a few years ago I really got into different crafts such as creating cups and shirts. I practiced by creating gifts for my family and friends. Finally, in June 2022 I decided to take the leap and become more serious about my work. My greatest accomplishment is my family; creating my business has given me the opportunity to work less with my daytime job and spend more time with my family while also doing what I love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth road? Does that actually exist?!? Nothing is ever a smooth road; we will always have obstacles. What is important is keeping our head up and keep pushing. Time has been an obstacle; it has taken me many years just to start a business. I also stay home with both my kids while also homeschooling my oldest. I think it’s fair to say how easily time can slip away when you have kiddos who always have energy! Another is my health, I have a few autoimmune diseases that create chronic pain on a daily basis, some days worse than others. When it comes to photographing events, standing for long periods of times can trigger my pain, as well as when I’m crafting and I’m using my hands to weed out vinyl pieces. I don’t let my health be the only thing seen about me. It may not be easy but pushing through is worth it for me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a creative crafting photographer! I specialize in photography and creating custom gifts. I love all kinds of photoshoots, family, milestones, and weddings but I would say family photoshoots are my most common. When it comes to crafting, t-shirts(clothing) and cups are my most popular items. I am most proud of my ability to be versatile. I like to consider myself a one-stop shop. Need matching family shirts & a family photoshoot? I’m your girl! I would say that is what I’m known for and sets me apart from others.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
This is a hard one! I even had to ask my parents! Overall, I was a shy kid but once I was comfortable you couldn’t get me to stop talking! My parents absolutely agree. They also told me I have always been sweet, caring, loving, and thoughtful to everyone/everything around me. I’ve always had an artistic eye and loved all kinds of crafting activities. My dad brought out my love for nature, which still remains as nature photography is one of my favorites.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alyssasartsylens.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssa_artsylens
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaartsylens
Image Credits
Angela Lucht Photography
Alyssa’s Artsy Lens
