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

Hi Janvi, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I have always been passionate about learning and taking risks to achieve growth. Risks provide opportunities to learn, grow, and experience the unknown. Without risks, life can get repetitive and eventually dull. This way of thinking is what I bring into all parts of my life, whether as a student or a photographer.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology at The University of Texas at Dallas and was on the pre-medical track. At first, photography started out as a mere hobby of convenience. My dad had all the equipment lying around – a Canon EOS 6D, tripods, and multiple accessories. Since the pandemic had forced students into remote learning, I was getting bored at home with endless hours of binge-watching TV and baking. So I decided to pick up the camera and learn how to use all the equipment. This decision ended up being the best risk I have ever taken. It opened up many doors and opportunities, allowing me to grow out of my comfort zone. Photography has made me realize that my true passion lies in creating connections with customers as well as new experiences.

The pandemic changed perspectives for many regarding careers, family, and hobbies. The most significant change we have seen is individuals taking risks to pursue their dreams and passions. This was the same thing that happened to me.

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.
I am a DFW-based photographer who focuses on senior portraits and has dabbled in maternity, event, and family photoshoots. The one thing that sets me apart from local photographers is that, as a recent high-school graduate who has been through the lows and highs for the whole senior year process, I can bring my experiences and that knowledge into every single session. Hopefully, in the future, I will be able to dip my feet into engagement photography and expand my business beyond the DFW region.

The one thing that I am most proud of is that I took this risk and put myself out there in a field that is already saturated. There are so many talented photographers in the DFW region, making the most challenging thing about this is finding new clients and expanding my portfolio. To overcome these challenges, I took some time to create my website and took some courses in social media marketing. Even though establishing my business has not been easy, it has been an interesting and exciting journey.

One thing I learned throughout this journey is that no matter how difficult the path might be to achieving your dreams if you are persistent and have the determination to reach them, nothing can stop you from getting to the end. The most important and challenging lesson I learned is that you are never too old to discover your dreams and chase after them! Sometimes it might be the most controversial decision you have to make, but everything will work out if it is where your passions lie.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I have lived in Denton for most of my life and have only recently begun to discover the number of activities available in the DFW area. My favorite place for a night out of eating, drinking, and fun is Grandscape in The Colony. There are various options for food and drinks, ranging from bars to sit-down restaurants, shopping venues, an indoor karting place, and a Ferris Wheel. I recommend hiking and a picnic at The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve or the North Shore Trail near Grapevine Lake for something more outdoorsy and the perfect weekend activity. Both these locations provide beautiful and peaceful scenery throughout all the seasons and are great places to relax with friends and family.

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?
The people in my life that deserve a huge shoutout are my family and closest friends. My family has given me all the support and love I need to take risks in life and pursue my dreams. My closest friends are the ones who pushed me to create my photography business and expand beyond taking photos for the family. Without their support and constant nudging to take this leap, I would not be where I am today.

Website: https://janvipatelphotography.mypixieset.com/

Instagram: @janvipatelphotography

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janvi-k-patel/

Facebook: Janvi Patel Photography

Other: Email: janvipatelphotography@gmail.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.