Meet Andrea Canon | Photographer and CEO of Happy Sessions Photography Boutique

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

Hi Andrea, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
One thing about the photography industry that many people don’t realize is how much happens behind the scenes before a single photo is even taken. Photography is not just about having a great camera or knowing how to frame a shot—it’s about crafting stories, building trust, and creating an environment where emotions can flow naturally. Pre-production plays a significant role, from conceptualizing ideas and understanding the client’s vision to planning every detail to ensure the final result resonates.
But there’s also the personal journey involved. Developing a distinctive style that sets you apart and makes your work recognizable takes years of exploration, experimentation, and refinement. It’s a process of self-discovery, constantly pushing boundaries, and evolving with time.
At its core, photography is a unique combination of artistry, psychology, and technical expertise. It’s about connecting with people, making them feel seen and comfortable, and capturing moments that feel authentic and timeless. It’s far more than simply “taking a picture”—it’s creating a lasting story that speaks to the heart.
Risk taking: how do you think about risk, what role has taking risks played in your life/career?
Taking risks has been an essential part of both my life and career. I believe that growth doesn’t happen without stepping outside of your comfort zone, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. For me, taking risks has meant leaving behind stability to pursue opportunities that aligned with my passions. Moving to a new country, starting a career as a freelance photographer, and eventually creating my own brand were all leaps of faith that required courage, perseverance, and trust in my abilities.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is all about storytelling. As a photographer, I strive to create images that evoke emotion, connection, and authenticity. What sets me apart is my ability to truly connect with people and capture their essence in a natural, unforced way. Whether I’m working with children, families, or individuals, I create a space where emotions can unfold, and that’s when the magic happens. I’m proud of the style I’ve developed over the years—colorful, warm, and timeless—and the trust my clients place in me to tell their stories.
Getting to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. My journey started in Colombia, where I studied Social Communication and Journalism. After moving to Mexico, I spent six years working with non-profit organizations, contributing to social outreach programs that deeply enriched my perspective on storytelling and human connection. Twelve years ago, I made the bold decision to shift my career path entirely, dedicating myself to studying photography and embracing my passion for visual storytelling.
Those years in Mexico were transformative, allowing me to build my career as a photographer and refine my craft through meaningful experiences and connections. I explored various fields, from architecture to editorial and post-production, until I found my true passion for portraiture. Starting over has been a recurring theme in my life—I’ve had to begin from scratch three times, including my most recent move to Houston five years ago. Each transition brought its own set of challenges, from rebuilding a portfolio to establishing connections in a new place.
The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. I’ve discovered the importance of adaptability, resilience, and trusting the process, even when the path feels uncertain. Most importantly, I’ve learned that success comes from not just hard work but also from building meaningful relationships and staying true to my vision.
Through my brand, Happy Sessions, I want the world to know that my work is about more than just taking photos—it’s about celebrating human connection, preserving memories, and telling stories that will last a lifetime. My journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the belief that every challenge brings new opportunities for 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.
If my best friend were visiting Houston, I’d create an itinerary that highlights the city’s artistic charm, green spaces, and incredible food scene. Here’s how it would look:

Day 1: We’d start with a visit to the Menil Collection, an iconic space where art and tranquility meet. After exploring the exhibits, we’d walk to the nearby Rothko Chapel to appreciate its serene atmosphere. The surrounding neighborhood is full of beautiful architecture, lush trees, and inviting pathways, so we’d take our time strolling through the area. For lunch, we’d stop at La Table, known for its elegant French-inspired dishes. In the evening, we’d head to Buffalo Bayou Park, walking along the trails, soaking in the city’s skyline views, and maybe catching the famous Waugh Bridge Bat Colony at sunset in summer. To end the night, we’d head to The Flat, one of my favorite bars in the city in Montrose, for great drinks and a cozy, laid-back vibe.

Day 2: We’d start the morning with a relaxed and fun brunch at Onion Creek, enjoying their delicious menu paired with mimosas while a DJ sets the mood with great music. Afterward, we’d take a leisurely walk around the Heights to explore the unique boutiques, vintage shops, and colorful street art. For lunch, we’d head to The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation for an iconic Tex-Mex experience. In the afternoon, we’d visit Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, soaking in its beautiful landscapes and historical art collection.

Day 3: We’d begin the day with breakfast at Cafetales on Westheimer, a cozy spot with incredible coffee and Latin-inspired dishes to start the morning on the right note. Afterward, we’d head to the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, an extraordinary underground space where art and history intersect. The afternoon would include a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, exploring their world-class exhibitions and soaking in the creativity. To wrap up the day, we’d enjoy a laid-back dinner at Picos for some authentic Mexican flavors and a festive atmosphere.

This itinerary perfectly balances art, nature, and the vibrant food culture that makes Houston so special. It’s a city full of contrasts, creativity, and warmth—something I’d love for my friend to experience firsthand.

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 owe everything to my family, especially my father, who introduced me to art and culture from a very young age and shaped my passion for creativity. I’m also incredibly grateful to the many talented creatives I’ve had the privilege of working alongside throughout my journey—they’ve inspired and challenged me to grow. And, of course, my biggest shoutout goes to my husband. For the past five years, he has believed in me wholeheartedly, supported my dreams, and stood by my side through every step of this journey. His encouragement and partnership have been invaluable, and I truly couldn’t have done it without him.

Instagram: @happysessions

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happysessions.photo