Meet Blanca Mendez | Photographer

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

Hi Blanca, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Something that I remind myself to do is to enjoy where I am now. There were days that I would have major imposter syndrome and I would think how I am not good enough, and basically it would cause me to overthink. Everyone at one point compares themselves to someone more successful and then I realized that I should celebrate how far I have come. It has been tough and I am still not where I want to be but I remember when I used to pray for what I have now. This society has led us to believe that your self-worth is measured by how productive you are, and in some cases people feel the need to be validated by others in order to feel good about themselves. I believe as a society we need to do better, it’s always about the hustle and not so much about taking time to breath and enjoy the moment. It’s tough but I found peace in knowing that with hard work I will get to where I eventually want to be when it’s time. Nothing that is meant for me will be taken away, and that gives me joy and it let’s me enjoy where I am now. I love the mistakes I make because I learn from them, I am going at my own pace and I love that for me. I am in competition with who I was yesterday and that’s what keeps me going.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
There has definitely been a lot of challenges along the way, and I’m sure many left to live. My determination is real, if I don’t know how something works I will do whatever I need to do and learn. There’s so many resources we can leverage now in regards to educating ourselves, and I am grateful for being able to just go on Google and read or watch whatever it is I need to learn.

I am currently working on growing my client closet, which is focused on providing Mother’s and their babies clothing options for their session. As a mother of two, I know exactly how stressful it is to pick outfits for your children and let alone yourself. The clothing options I’ve added have been picked out intentionally to compliment any body type. As mom’s we tend to be hard on ourselves especially after having a little one, and shopping for clothes can be mortifying. If I can help in the smallest way to alleviate that stress I am more than happy to do so.

I want mother’s to know that you don’t have to be the one behind the camera all the time, your babies deserve photos of you. Taking photographs is not for you now it’s for future you in 20-40 years you will look back and cherish these memories. These photographs will serve as a reminder of what is truly important, and now more than ever do we need that reminder. Just remember they won’t be as little as they are now, so cherish these fleeting moments.

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.

Ahhh I am not the best person to ask, I am not as cool as I once was lol
There is so many things to do in the DFW, I wouldn’t know where to start, but a Rangers game is definitely a must, and you can’t visit Dallas without going to brunch!!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Definitely my Family and friends who have been part of my growth journey. From sharing my images on their social media, to recommending me to others. It means a lot when the people you’re close to believe in your dreams and encourage you to take that leap and go for it. The journey is a lot less lonely with a support system, and I am forever grateful for the tribe I have by my side!

Website: https://www.yaniraphoto.com/

Instagram: yaniraphoto

Other: Tik Tok : yaniraphoto