Meet Melanie Chaponan | Photographer

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

Hi Melanie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Ever since I can remember I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, couple that with my passion for photography, it seemed as a no brainer to start my own business. Although starting your own business does come with its own set of challenges, it’s very fulfilling to pursue my passion, under my own terms. I am fortunate that my business is currently thriving, which motivates me to continue working even harder to expand my business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I guess that you can say that my business started from my desire to follow my curiosity for capturing beautiful moments and also from a little bit of serendipity. I felt inexplicably drawn to the art of photography and just decided to dive into my passion with the same work ethic that I approach other areas of my life. I think this is what sets me apart from others. I will not stop until I capture the perfect moment! Also, getting to know my clients is something that I value because I get some insight into what is important to them. I want to be able to tell their story through my photos.

I am most proud of the recognition that some of my work has received. This just fuels my passion for photography even further. However, I also make sure to remind myself that the road has not been easy. For example, I have had to build my clientele and make sure I can turn in every gallery in a timely manner all while having a full-time job and also going to school to become a therapist.

Photography has always been a passion of mine and anything worth your time requires you to give so much. Photography is no exception! I constantly pour everything I have into this beautiful and complex art. I make it a habit to tell myself that I need to keep going and not give up especially when I have so much more learn!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have been waiting to do this! True story: I have a list of 112 restaurants/places to visit on Google Maps. First off, we would do breakfast or brunch at San Martin Bakery off of McKinney. Another excellent option would be The Henry in Harwood District. Lunch would be amazing at La Ventana off of Cedar Springs, all the vibes and margaritas! Dinner would be at Te Deseo or Yardbird. Some awesome bars we could go to would be Wonderbar/77 Degrees, Frida’s Social Club, Playground Bar, or Happiest Hour! You also can’t forget the classic Dallas icons such as the State Fair (when it’s in town) and of course catching a Cowboys or Rangers game! Last but not least, Texas Live and PBR are great options, too.

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 would have to credit my mom for planting the see of me starting my photography journey. She gifted my first camera to me and little did I know that this gift would propel my passion for photography even further.

Website: https://melchaponanphotography.mypixieset.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/melchaponanphotography?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melchaponanphotographyy?mibextid=LQQJ4d