Meet Martha Montelongo | Teacher & Photographer

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

Hi Martha, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work-life balance has changed a lot over the years. As a teacher, a mom, and a photographer, I often juggle multiple responsibilities at once, and there have definitely been times when it felt overwhelming. Early on, I struggled to find a rhythm, and I sometimes felt like I was falling short in one area or another. Over time, I’ve learned to prioritize what matters most in each season of life and to give myself grace when everything doesn’t fit perfectly. While balancing everything can still be challenging, I now approach it with more intention and see balance not as a perfect equation but as an ongoing process.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a teacher, a mom, and a photographer, and each of these roles has shaped who I am. What makes me unique is my ability to balance my passions while staying grounded in my faith. I started photography because of my sons; they are my inspiration and the reason I wanted to capture life’s special moments.

Reaching this point in my career hasn’t always been easy. Balancing teaching, motherhood, and photography has required patience, perseverance, and trusting God’s timing. Along the way, I’ve learned to prioritize, ask for support, and give myself grace when things don’t go perfectly.

I am proud to combine my love for education with my creative passions. I want people to know that my story is about faith, family, and following your passions. With dedication, support from loved ones, and God’s guidance, anything is possible.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit DFW, I’d make sure we had the perfect mix of exploring and relaxing. We’d start in Fort Worth at the Stockyards for the cattle drive, shops, and some classic BBQ, then spend some evenings at home cooking, laughing, and just enjoying each other. In Dallas, we’d grab brunch at The Rustic, stroll through Klyde Warren Park, and maybe check out the Arboretum or Perot Museum. We’d spend a day in Grapevine wandering downtown and another at White Rock Lake walking or biking. Evenings could include the Bishop Arts District for murals, shops, and casual dining. We’d also squeeze in a fun day at the Fort Worth Zoo or Six Flags, but with plenty of downtime at home to bond and make memories. By the end of the week, we’d get the best of DFW’s food, culture, outdoors, and fun without feeling rushed.

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?
I want to give a big shout out to God for guiding me and giving me strength every day. I’m so grateful for my family and my husband for their unwavering support, my coworkers who encourage me, and my friends who have cheered me on. Most of all, my sons are my inspiration and the reason I started photography in the first place. They motivate me to chase my passion and capture life’s special moments.

Image Credits
Martha Montelongo Photography