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

Hi Jolie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I started my photography business in December of 2018 as a way to have a creative outlet. I was almost a year deep into grief of losing my brother unexpectedly and I knew I needed an outlet outside of my 9-5 job. What started out as a little side job I did on the weekends just for fun, turned into something so much bigger! It’s now my full time passion and one that I wake up excited about. My decision to pursue photography was one out of fun but now its my way of life and I am so glad I did!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I started my photography career, I really didn’t know who I wanted to be. I didn’t know how I wanted my photos to look and really didn’t realize how editing really changes the photo artistically. It took me a long time to grow into being an artist and not just a photographer — and truthfully I am still growing in this area. I specialize in warm light photography — basically this means my photos are warm and inviting. They are natural light with just a touch of warm fuzzies. What sets me apart from others is I really love to connect with those I am photographing. It’s not just about taking the photos for me. I want to get to know my clients and hear their love stories. I want them to know me and really feel comfortable in my presence and in front of my camera!
I have grown exponentially professionally. It was not easy to get here though. I spent numerous hours educating myself, connecting with other photographers, figuring out the instagram algorithm that we all hate and so much more. The hardest part of growing for me is the mistakes. I hate making mistakes and messing up but it is a part of life and growth can’t happen without it! Im thankful for the journey that has gotten me to where I am and I am so excited to see where I will go.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If its their first time in Houston? I’d be taking them to so many places!

For food, we’d definitely have a fancy night at Taste of Texas, get some Tex-Mex at Ambrizas along with their insanely yummy jalepeno margs, and grab some of the best bbq I’ve ever had at Truth’s BBQ.

Activity wise, we’d definitely go to Galveston and make a pit stop at NASA on our way down. I’d take them to enjoy the ever glades at Memorial park and maybe hike some trails in the Aboretum. I’d love to take them to the tunnels in Downtown because I have never been there myself! Agora coffee shop is definitely on the list for a mid-afternoon pick me up!

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 wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my husband Danny, family, and friends. Danny from day one has been my number one encourager and fan. He has pushed me harder and harder every year to do more and be better. If it were not for him, my business would not be where it is today! My family has always had my back and made me feel like I can pursue this thing full time, and of course my friends are always willing to sign up for my crazy shoot ideas!

Website: www.JolieLeahPhoto.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jolieleahphotography

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jolieleahphotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.