We had the good fortune of connecting with Priscilla Chavez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Priscilla , we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’m the type of person that lets “fear” and “what ifs” get in the way. As I was practicing Photography at home with my own family taking random photos… My husband takes a big a part in why I started. His encouragement, faith, trust and guidance in me is what pushed me to move forward. He said start small, let your work speak for its self. With myself suffering from depression and anxiety I couldn’t see forward. I didn’t believe in myself. I’m my own worse critic. I knew my own worth and passion was and is stronger than my fear. So I let that fear go and said “I’ve got this”. I started small, no social media, just word of mouth. My cliental has grown so much and Im forever grateful for my clients. I’ve built so much confidence that I’ve become a risk taker. I’ve taken on a variety of photography session that are out of my comfort zone and definitely have crushed them. life is about having fun and taking risks. Whatever the outcome is, either way I’m happy and thrilled to have taken on this life experience. meeting new people and capturing their milestones and candid moments.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This is tough, As a person who has to deal with anxiety/depression daily it’s hard to find something that excites you and makes you proud of something. Having to struggle with this I have learned that photography is my greatest escape. Photography gives me a sense of clarity and pride. It’s not easy work…its not easy to work pass your struggles and to move forward. My work does that for me, it helps me get through my day. I have something that I love and am truly passionate about. When Im photographing people, I’m very interactive. I want to capture the best moments and the most candid ones at that. I do my best to make them laugh and to have fun, nothing to serious. you’ll catch me laying on the floor, some times even rolling around just to get the best angle. You’ll see how I’m posing myself and think ” what the heck is she doing?” but the moment you see the picture, you’re in awe like wow thats what she was seeing the whole time. Just because I suffer from depression/anxiety, I don’t allow it to stop me from doing what I love and what saves me daily. I love what I do and I want to keep capturing the best moments.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Downtown is the place to be. I love the buildings, art, people, environment etc. it’s such a chill vibe and everything is walking distance or a quick ride away. have to visit Hanny’s and enjoy some good food/drinks. Also I love to hike, its therapeutic. So of course visit Sedona, and all hiking trails here in phoenix. overlook the beautiful scenery Arizona has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have a few people to give a heartfelt shoutout to. My husband, thank you for pushing me, encouraging me and being there every step of the way. whenever I felt down about my work, you showed me the beauty and light of it all. I am appreciative of you and truly blessed to have you by my side. My parents are my number 1 supporters, they are quick to shout out my work, post, share, and even help with whatever equipment that i may need or want. Last but not least, My Uncle Ronnie… His passion is also Photography, his advise, experience and wisdom have guided me through this journey.

Instagram: 4FamilyPhotography

Image Credits
4FamilyPhotography