My life is nowhere near set. There's so much I feel that I need to explore and learn about myself. I sometimes feel overwhelmed with what exactly it is that I want to do career wise. A few months ago, photography was something I was sure I was going to leave but trust me, It did not take long for me to realize how unrealistic that would be. I enjoy what I do as a photographer, so I threw that silly idea out the window.

I recently got an internship with a non-profit organization that does work that aligns so well with my values; to empower low income, Latina women and their families. I've also been volunteering with an association that provides resources to farm workers and fights for their rights. Giving back to my community has become something I prioritize. At times it feels like I'm not doing enough, but taking a step back to breathe and realize I can only do so much helps. I may not be able to change the world, but being able to make a small change is enough for me to know that it is worth it.

In light of this blog post, I'm determined to post as much of my work from this year as I possibly can during my winter break.


- Patience is a great thing to have.
- "Loneliness comes from a lack of intimate connections" - Cam Adair
- You are the only person you need to be good enough for.
- Coffee is not your friend, let's just say you get quite energetic.
-  Eating cleaner makes you feel amazing.
- Treat yo' self whenever you feel its necessary.
- Continue empowering others and that itself empowers you.
- Manage your time wisely, it will pay the next day, week, month, and year.
- Not everyone has the intentions they say they do.
- Stop doubting yourself.
- Failing a class or feeling like you will fail a class is not the end of the world.
- There is a correlation between getting good grades and the amount of studying one does (this one is a reminder).
- Self help books are your favorite kind of books.
- Appreciate those around you and make sure they know that.
- You want to exclusively shoot wedding photography one day.
- Don't let your happiness depend on anybody but yourself.
- Gilmore Girls has got be be one of your favorite shows, and you will most likely continue binge watching during your break.

I've been called lazy by some because I don't have a "real" job that requires a set schedule such as a retail or customer service job. For the longest time I felt the same way after I noticed all my friends had part-time and full time jobs while I didn't. I was shooting events on the weekends and going to school during the week. Although my entire week was taken up by editing hundreds of images, learning how to Photoshop, understanding my camera, learning about lenses, finding my photographic voice, beginning my ideal client marketing, setting up free sessions in exchange for practice, setting up a website, designing my blog, learning to how write professional emails, finding time to shoot paid sessions....the list goes on. Having done all this in the comfort of my home did not make it much different from a regular job. Even though I was investing so much of my time towards this business as a teenager, I still wanted to apply for a job somewhere just because everyone my age was.  

It took me this long to tell myself that this IS my full time job.Whether its responding to emails and calls in between classes, meeting with potential clients over coffee, sleeping until two in the morning because I have to finish editing photos. This is my full time dream job. I want to continue growing, I want to become a better me. For my clients, those I love, and myself.



There's 9 weeks left of this year and will do my best to post the rest of my sessions and events from this year.

As much as I want to dedicate all my time to this business, I have to understand that school takes up most of my time and that's ok. There's no rush because in 10 years from now I see myself doing the same exact thing; capturing life and love. Primeramente Dios.

 

So what exactly does the cover of my planner say about me?

1. I have a Tumblr. Which is where I got these photos from.
2. I own a Fender acoustic guitar. I'm driven by the sound a single guitar string can make.
3. I listen to Mexican music. I'm a music junkie, and Mexican music fits into my music taste.
4. I'm in love with a city I don't live in. LA to be exact....my next destination this spring break I can't wait!
5. I love pizza. Godfather's or Pizza Hut to be precise.
6. Jennifer Lawrence is currently my favorite actress.
7. I have dreams.I'm in the process of finding my passion and seeking my purpose. I acknowledge the fact that failure is part of success, which is why I'm not afraid to pursue my dreams. I know I will fail and that's what will keep me going.
8. I'm from the 503, and Portland is my city.