We had the good fortune of connecting with Cassi De los Santos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cassi, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Simply put, I view risk as an opportunity to grow and to learn more about yourself. I was 25 years old when I found my passion in photography. I felt like nothing could stop me every time I held a camera however, being a photographer wasn’t the most practical career to pursue. I was already a mother of two kids, with a full time job, and attending school for my bachelor’s degree. Continuing working and going to school would have been a more secure choice, but I decided to follow my heart. I left school to work on my skills and business. Choosing my passion over the “safe route” has not been the easiest but it has been very rewarding. I’m proud to say that risk has led me to this point; being an entrepreneur and founder/operator of my business, Laynilous Photography.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m very proud to be the only one in my area that specializes in HS Senior Photography. I chose Seniors because they are full of life, personality, and they are on their way to a whole new chapter in life. It’s so awesome for me to be apart of that transition and I go above and beyond to make sure our shoots are fun and memorable for them. My consultations are all about learning what makes them unique and going over important but often over looked details, from HAMU, outfits, skin, nails, scenery etc. They even have the option to choose from growing style closet. They leave full of information and don’t have to worry about a thing. This journey has not been easy at all. There have been countless times where I wanted to give up because I was worried about how I’d provide for my kids as a single mother. I’ve had so many people try to convince me to get a “regular job” for more security. I’ve even doubted myself a few times. My faith, family, and friends have been a huge part of me moving forward. I know that God has great plans for me because he has always provided during my times of uncertainty. I’ve just learn to be persistent and consistent. I spend most of my time sitting in my office, editing photos, scheduling shoots, and learning new ways to get better. My formula is simple, just hustle and have faith. The name of my business is a combination of my two beautiful daughters, Delayni and Maddi Lou. They truly inspire me to never give up. We have been through so much together as a family and my greatest goal in life is for them to never see me quit when things get tough. This is really all for them. I want my brand to stand for strong woman everywhere. Whatever you want in life, you can get it no matter where you’re coming from. I am an example of that.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Houston is a cool place for great alternative food! I’ve been getting into vegan cuisine and some of my favorite food spots are Korny Vibes and Houston Hot Sauce Co. As far as places to see, well I’m a Photographer so I’d show them some pretty neat outdoor spots like Gerald D. Hines Waterfall Park, Saint Arnold Brewery, and the heart of Downtown Houston. For all the mommas out there, the Children’s Discovery Museum is a great place for the kiddos every time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I know this is so cliche, but I would not have gotten this far without my mother. She is also an entrepreneur and a very strong woman. My mother had me at a very young age, which I can imagine made her grow up quicker than the other kids. It wasn’t easy for her and since she knew what struggling was like, she really pushed me in everything I did so that I wouldn’t become another statistic. In her adult years, she’s made a pretty great name for herself amongst the HAMU (hair and makeup) industry. Photography and HAMU go hand in hand so she already knew what the standard was in my field and she pushed me to do my best work. Today, I am her go to photographer and I know it’s because my work is something she’s proud to be apart of and I’m proud to have her as my mother.

Website: www.laynilous.com
Instagram: @laynilous
Facebook: www.facebook.com/laynilous

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