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

Hi Angella, have you had any epiphanies during or due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I wouldn’t say I’ve experienced any epiphanies, but I have had plenty of time to scroll through social media and watch the reactions of others. The one that stands out the most was the outrage people felt when celebrities were isolated in their mansions. People were of the opinion that the celebrities weren’t really “suffering”, because they were so much better off. Yet, these commenters failed to consider how much better off they are than a family who missed the celebrity gossip, because they’ve lost their phone, internet, etc due to their financial hardship. Then there are those that lash out on the ones wanting to be safe by referring to them as “weak”, “sheep”, and “full of fear”. Not once considering that people may be staying home out of respect for others. Yet, if they are scared what harm is it for them to want to keep themselves and their families safe. The reactions have been disappointing to say the least. However, it has made me so very grateful for everything I have and everything I work for. I try to be open-minded and respect the opinions of others and I can only hope that I don’t ever lose sight of what is important to me.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My photography business is 100% Veteran owned! Starting a photography business is probably the easy part, finding your place in the industry is the challenge! Just over a year in and I still don’t feel that I’ve gotten my style down, but I’m getting closer! Practice and patience are key! I also try to focus on the positives of the business such as meeting some really great clients, some of which I consider my friends now. That is definitely one of the highlights. Another huge driving factor is being able to give back to the rescue community! I’ve been lucky to be able to combine my passion for photography with my passion for animal rescues! A portion of my proceeds are always donated to rescues!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely check to see what festivals or fundraisers were going on! The vendors at most festivals are almost always local businesses and I would encourage everyone to support local! Aside from that there are so many places to choose from! Museum District, Buffalo Bayou, Memorial Park, Galveston, there’s so many amazing beer gardens to choose from, and of course we would have to hit up The Woodlands Waterway or Market Street for a low-key dinner and drinks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The whole reason I set out to start a photography business was to help support animal rescues. It’s alarming how many people are completely unaware of the crisis that we have with the overpopulation of animals here in Houston. The people that I’ve met through rescues have more heart and compassion than any other group I’ve ever met. I consider myself to be a very strong individual, but I couldn’t spend a day in their shoes. The truth about street dogs is gut wrenching. You may not be able to donate, adopt, foster or volunteer, but spreading awareness and education helps so much more than you could possibly know! Just some of the groups I’m working with include Tiny Paws Rescue, Albert’s dog Lounge, True Blue Animal Rescue, Black Goat Farm Sanctuary, and This is Houston. I would strongly encourage everyone to check them out! The foster dogs in the picture are under the care of Albert’s Dog Lounge and also pictured is one of ADL’s many volunteers, Charlotte!

Website: www.angellav.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/angellav.photography
Facebook: www.facebook.com/angellavphotography/