Meet Kayla & Jade | Portrait Photographers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla & Jade and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla & Jade, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
One of our favorite childhood memories was a family photo session in Vietnam at our relative’s studio. Our mother did a rooftop session in a traditional ao dai during our visit, and we were mesmerized by the artistry and beauty. I don’t think we realized it then, but it left a lasting impression. We have always felt that having a creative outlet was important, so it felt natural to begin this business venture together in photography. We incorporated the duality of our relationship as sisters within the name of our business, Solluna Photography, to include the juxtaposition of the sun and the moon. It also gave us a reason to prioritize more time together.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Our biggest obstacle was fear of failure; The most difficult part of deciding we were going to pursue photography as more than just a hobby, was to start. We both had to convince ourselves to get out of our own way. We are both employed full time in careers that are unaffiliated with photography, so we have both intentionally devoted time to hone our skills and grow our business. We are proud of our accomplishments and look forward to continue this pattern of growth.

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.
Even though we weren’t born and raised in Houston, it is the city that feels most like home. Our ideal itinerary would include beignets and Vietnamese iced coffee at Chez Beignets, followed by photos at some of the many local murals, then stopping for lunch at Fat Bao, and catching an Astros game at Minute Maid Park. We would also highly recommend a meal at Waffle Bus in the Heights, attending Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and two-stepping at Whiskey River during their stay. For more active lifestyles, jogging at Memorial Park and sand volleyball at Third Coast Volleyball are always a good time.

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?
Since we have decided to pursue this business venture together, our friends and family have been most supportive and encouraging. Namely, Kristina Ohl with Hello Darlin’ Photography, and Kristen Coleman with Honey & Hive Houston; They both have been instrumental in mentoring us as we find our own unique style. In a profession where other creatives are viewed as competition, we are lucky these women share similar values of fostering a sense of community; We believe there is room for everyone to succeed.

Instagram: Solluna_photography

Other: email us at Sollunaphotographysisters@gmail.com