Meet Taryn Melgoza | Owner and Photographer at Taryn Melgoza Photography

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

Hi Taryn, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success? Creating a life that gives me the flexibility to be present for my children. From the very beginning, my motivation wasn’t just about building a business—it was about designing a career that allowed me to volunteer at my kids’ schools, attend their sporting events, and truly be there for the moments that matter. I was determined to be a mom first and a business owner second—though, of course, balancing both is still a challenge some days!

Beyond motivation, success has come from having a clear business plan with attainable goals and then focusing on the specific actions that drive income. It’s easy to get caught up in busy work, but I’ve learned to prioritize the things that actually move my business forward.

Finally, I believe that building a brand that feels authentic to who you are is one of the biggest keys to long-term success. When your business aligns with your values and allows you to show up as yourself, it’s easier to stay passionate, connect with your clients, and create something truly meaningful.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Photography, for me, has always been about more than just capturing images—it’s about preserving the moments that matter most. As a mom, I deeply understand the fleeting nature of time, and that perspective has shaped my work in a powerful way. My art is rooted in storytelling, emotion, and authenticity, whether I’m photographing families, children, or creating fine art portraits.

What sets me apart is my ability to capture the little in-between moments—the stolen glances, the laughter, the quiet connection between loved ones. I want my clients to look at their photos and feel something real, something timeless. I also believe in creating a relaxed and comfortable experience, where clients feel like themselves in front of the camera, allowing their true personalities to shine.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how photography has supported my family through different seasons of life. When my husband was laid off from his oil and gas career in 2015, my business became our family’s sole source of income. That experience taught me the value of my work, the importance of pricing my time correctly, and how to run a profitable and sustainable business. More than that, it reinforced why I started this journey in the first place—to create a life that allows me to be present for my children, volunteer at their schools, and be there for their biggest moments.

I’m most excited about the memories I’ve been able to capture—not just for my clients but for my own family. My kids have grown up with a camera in their lives, and I love knowing that I’ve preserved their childhood in a way they’ll cherish forever. Photography has given me the ability to freeze time, to hold onto the details that would otherwise fade, and that is something I’ll always be grateful for.

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 for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of the city—especially its incredible food scene! We would kick things off with a Tex-Mex lunch, craft beer at Saint Arnold Brewing, and an Astros game at Minute Maid Park. I’d include a day trip to Galveston, complete with fishing in the bay, fresh seafood, and some beachside relaxation. A quick trip to Texas Wine Country would also be a must, with visits to some of the best vineyards and the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Other highlights would include a visit to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, shopping in The Heights, and exploring the Houston Zoo or the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The perfect way to wrap up the trip would be a fantastic steak dinner at Killen’s Steakhouse in Pearland with good friends!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am incredibly grateful for the many mentors who have helped shape my business over the past decade. Running a photography business—especially one that has supported my family through various seasons of life—would not have been possible without the guidance and encouragement of some truly amazing people.

A special shoutout goes to Paige Walker of Paige Walker Photography in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Paige was instrumental in helping me establish a profitable business, and her mentorship gave me the confidence to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. During my husband’s layoff from oil and gas in 2015, my business became our sole source of income, and Paige’s guidance was invaluable in making that transition possible. Beyond being a mentor, she has become a dear friend—always willing to listen, offer advice, and cheer me on. Being a business owner can be a lonely job, and having friends in the industry who truly understand the journey is essential!

I also want to express my gratitude to Andrea Surak, Amy Sample, and Ally Blankenburg—each of these incredible photographers and friends has played a role in shaping my photography journey. Their support, wisdom, and camaraderie mean the world to me.

To every mentor, friend, and supporter along the way—thank you! Your influence has helped me build a business that not only supports my family but also allows me to live a life that prioritizes what matters most.

Website: https://www.tarynmelgoza.com

Instagram: @tarynmelgozaphoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TarynMelgozaPhotography

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tarynmelgoza

Image Credits
All images belong to Taryn Melgoza Photography