We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika (Judith) Medina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika (Judith), alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I define success by how at peace you are with yourself, through the journey of achieving your goals, and after doing so. How kind were you to the people you found along the way, did you stay true to yourself? Although most times we tend to measure success with material things that come and go. I personally feel that as long as you are at peace the rest is just a bonus.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Everything about photography excites me, being able to freeze a candid moment in time and look back to reminisce, or to remember a loved one, that brings joy to my heart. “to look back at the good ol’ times, before we knew they were the good ol’ times”
I am the most excited to let go of my fears, showing my art to the world and finally deciding that I am enough, and that my work is worth being displayed. Very proud to have finally submitted my work and be part of an amazing exhibit ” Women in Photo”
The hardest part about turning a passion into a business for me has been my inner critic, the little voice in my head that creates doubt and keeps me in a box of fear, that has been the challenge! Letting go of that and realizing that we all bring very unique an amazing qualities to the table, building trust in myself and not comparing my work to others, but learning from others has been a great alternative to that voice.
I’d like people to see my work and feel emotion, wether is a call for action or a sweet memory. I would want them to feel connected to my art.

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.
Intinerary for the week will be to check out model homes! haha! jk First I would get flowers to welcome them, from this cute flower shop at the heights called EC Blooms. Then to a mom and pop shop for good authentic food, La conchita Restaurant on Clay is a favorite for a good Mexican and or Slavadorian dish. Dancing is a great stress reliever so we would definately hit up Whiskey River for a nice dance lesson and two step after, or AxelRad for cumbia night, thats a must!!
We would definely get some amazing shots for the finsta at the cool murals by 8th wonder, hike the trails at memorial park.
Pick a few art shows to go to in the evenings, take photos around town. Visit where the locals go and support our local buniness.There is always so much to do in Houston, it is definately a great place to visit, lots of culture and diversity.

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?
First, myself for not giving up!

My sweet supportive friends, that always keep me motivated and continue to push me to persue my dreams and projects.
Alicia my mother a creative herself and an amazing guitarist. Her dedication and drive to continue to learn and become better each day keeps me going.

Lilia De La Garza my confidant and colleague in the Real Estate Industry.
Aaron Greeley, Real Estate mentor and fellow photographer.
Yexo Hernandez, amazing creative and photographer.

Catalina and Olive my fur babies!

And a warm hearted shouout to Open Door Gallery, that recently gave women artist/photographers the opportunity to showcase our work at Wonderlikwonder, please check out their page and support.

Lastly, a big gratitude to all the kind and amazing people in my life, that with their kindness and constant support, they make a huge difference in my life. I’ll always be thankful to all the people that I’ve met and continue to meet.

Instagram: @heyjude_itsartsy

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