Meet Melanie Lara | Photographer

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

Hi Melanie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I would say that there was definitely lots of thought in starting my photography business. For years I had been photographing my children and had taken several classes and workshops to improve my skills but the thought of owning my own business never crossed my mind. I was strictly a hobbyist photographer and that was more than okay with me, Documenting my kids growing up was rewarding but I kept getting requests to book sessions. How scary, right?! At first, I would say no, then I would take one here and there for free (or extremely low priced). Honestly, I didn’t think my work was good enough to charge much. But to my surprise, I was getting more and more requests and seeing more and more interest. It was then that I decided to take the plunge and pursue photography as a business. I mean, why not me? I haven’t looked back! For those on the fence, take the plunge!! It will be worth it!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My day job is a Executive Assistant for an apparel brand and I love it! One of the reasons I think I am able to have a such a good work/photography journey is pretty simple, I think. Being an Executive Assistant for me is pretty analytical and very driven by calendars and schedules and planning which I enjoy but photography lets me be super creative. I feel like I get the best of both worlds!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Definitely, without a doubt, I would take them to the Near Southside area here in Fort Worth. South Main has the best bars, restaurants and shops. Nickel City is my favorite bar in that area followed closely by the Bearded Lady and Pouring Glory. There are so many fabulous restaurants, I think I would recommend Paco’s, Salsa Limon or Tinie’s. I love Mexican food if you can’t tell. For non-Mexican food, I may go to Panther City BBQ or Wishbone and Flynt. Morgan Mercantile is the most badass little boutique shop with all of the coolest apparel and Fort Worth items. A definite must go!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First off, I would credit my amazing family for the incredible support I have received along the way. I work full time as an Executive Assistant in the day so photography has taken me away from my family many evenings and weekends and I have always received nothing but encouragement. I think that makes the journey and experience so much easier/better. In the photography world, I would credit a website called Click Community (formerly Clickin’ Moms). I attended a workshop of theirs in Seattle and truly believe it was one of the most positive workshops I have experienced, Being surrounded by creatives was just what I needed and helped me tremendously. They also have a website that has so many helpful tutorials and classes that I don’t know if I would be where I am without them.

Instagram: melanielaraphoto (also mblara is my 365 project page)

Facebook: melanielaraphotography