Today we’d like to introduce you to Judith Perez.
Hi Judith , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was about to turn 30, I had one thing on my mind I wanted a birthday photoshoot so badly. The only problem was that I couldn’t afford one. Instead of giving up on the idea, I decided to make it happen myself. I set up a simple backdrop, grabbed a few props, and used my phone to create my own photoshoot.
I’ve always loved editing photos, so I opened the PicsArt app and started playing around with my images. That’s when it hit me: *”OMG… I should become a photographer!”* It wasn’t something I had planned, but the idea felt right. Without hesitation, I bought my very first camera, a Canon 2000D.
The funny part is, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I didn’t know camera settings, lighting, or posing. All I had was my creativity, a good eye, and the determination to learn. I knew talent alone wasn’t enough, so I got a job at JCPenney Portraits to learn the fundamentals. That experience taught me so much—how to pose clients, work with different lighting situations, connect with families, and create an enjoyable experience in front of the camera.
After about a year, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life. I left the security of my job to pursue photography full-time. It was scary, but I believed in myself.
Not long after, a couple I had met while working at JCPenney reached out to me. I had photographed their proposal, and they asked me to capture their wedding. Of course, I said yes. That opportunity changed everything. I invested in my second camera, a Canon R8, attended workshops, worked alongside experienced photographers as a second shooter, and continued learning every chance I got. From there, everything started falling into place.
Today, I photograph everything from weddings and engagements to maternity, families, seniors, and branding sessions. I don’t believe in limiting myself to one niche because I genuinely enjoy telling all kinds of stories through my lens. Every session is different, and that’s what keeps photography exciting for me.
I still work every day to become a better photographer. This industry is incredibly competitive, but I’ve learned that there’s room for everyone. We all have our own style, our own vision, and our own way of making people feel in front of the camera. My goal has never been to be like everyone else it’s to create images that feel authentic, timeless, and full of emotion.
Looking back, it’s amazing to think that all of this started because I simply wanted birthday photos and couldn’t afford them. Sometimes the best opportunities come from finding a way to create something for yourself. Photography has completely changed my life, and I feel incredibly grateful that I get to help people preserve some of their most meaningful moments every single day.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been an easy road. One of the biggest challenges has been marketing myself. As a photographer, you wear so many hats. You’re not just taking photos you’re also your own marketing team, editor, customer service representative, accountant, and business owner.
Another struggle is when clients don’t always understand the value behind professional photography. Some expect a lot while wanting to pay very little, and that can be difficult. Over time, I’ve learned the importance of standing behind my pricing because it reflects not only the time spent during the session but also the hours of editing, planning, and creating a great experience.
There are also days when it feels overwhelming. I’ve spent countless late nights editing thousands of photos to make sure every gallery is delivered with care and quality. Lack of sleep definitely comes with the job sometimes!
I’ve also learned that being kind is important, but it’s just as important to set boundaries. In the beginning, I would often say yes to everything, and sometimes people took advantage of that. As my business has grown, I’ve learned how to balance kindness with professionalism.
Like any journey, I’ve had my ups and downs. But my passion for photography is so strong that I always find a way to keep moving forward. I choose to focus on growing, learning, and creating rather than letting challenges define me. Every obstacle has taught me something valuable, and each one has made me stronger as both a photographer and a business owner.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in capturing life’s most meaningful moments in a way that feels authentic, timeless, and full of emotion. While many photographers choose one niche, I genuinely enjoy photographing it all weddings, engagements, maternity, families, seniors, branding, birthdays, and portraits. Every session tells a different story, and I love being the one trusted to preserve those memories.
What I’m most proud of isn’t just the photos I deliver—it’s the experience I create. I want every client to leave their session feeling confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Many people tell me they’re nervous about being in front of the camera, but by the end of the session they’re laughing, relaxed, and surprised by how much fun they had. Seeing that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
I think what sets me apart is that I truly care. I don’t see my clients as just another booking. I take the time to get to know them, understand their vision, and create images that reflect who they are. I guide them through posing, pay attention to the little details, and make sure they never feel awkward or rushed.
I’m also constantly investing in myself and my business. I attend workshops, learn new techniques, and stay up to date with editing styles and photography trends because I believe my clients deserve my very best. I never want to stop growing.
Most importantly, I photograph with my heart. Every click of the shutter is more than just taking a picture it’s preserving a moment that someone may cherish for the rest of their life. Knowing that my work becomes part of my clients’ stories is something I’ll never take for granted, and that’s what makes me love what I do every single day.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My biggest piece of advice is to never be afraid to ask questions. The worst someone can say is no. Photography can feel competitive, but there are so many people willing to share their knowledge if you’re genuinely eager to learn.
Networking has been one of the best investments I’ve made in my career. Attending workshops, connecting with other photographers, joining local photography groups, and even working as a second shooter helped me gain experience and build relationships. Those connections have opened doors that I never could have opened on my own.
When it comes to finding a mentor, look for someone whose work and values you truly admire. Don’t just focus on their photos pay attention to how they treat their clients and run their business. A great mentor teaches more than camera settings; they help you grow as a professional.
One thing that has worked really well for me is staying humble and always being willing to learn. No matter how much experience you have, there’s always something new to discover. I also believe in supporting other photographers instead of seeing them as competition. We all have our own style and our own clients, and there’s room for everyone to succeed.
Most importantly, be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep showing up, keep practicing, keep learning, and don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Stay consistent, believe in yourself, and trust the process. That’s how I’ve continued to grow, and I know there’s still so much more to learn.
Pricing:
- Portrait Sessions: Starting at $200
- Couples & Engagement Sessions: Starting at $300
- Family Sessions: Starting at $250
- Wedding Collections: Starting at $900
- Elopements: Starting at $350
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jypimage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jypimages/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568596000008
