Meet Noelia Gaytan | Full time student athlete, substitute teacher, mom, and photography business owner

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

Hi Noelia, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
2 years ago I would’ve never thought I would be were I was. I was in college and worrying only about school and dance. Now I’m a full time student, athlete, mom, employer, and photographer. My schedule is always full but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Having the greatest support system allows 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.
My name is Noelia Gaytan and I’m a full time student athlete, substitute teacher, new mom, and business owner. I began JND Photography at the busiest time of my life and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I live for the busy schedules and being on top my toes (literally). I believe that nothing worth having comes easy and all things are possible if you work hard enough. If I knew what my life would be like 2 years, even a year ago, I wouldn’t believe it. But here I am juggling a busy schedule and loving every aspect of it. It wasn’t always easy, handling life and a newborn has been the toughest and most rewarding thing in life. Most nights include doing homework, laundry, nursing my baby, a photoshoot or editing photos, and remembering to eat dinner. In the midst of raising a life, I’m able to do things that I love. That’s why I don’t feel like I’m overloading myself because I love what I do.

All my life, I’ve been behind or in-front of the camera. Being a dancer, I’ve gotten used to having my picture made. Whether it’s headshots, action-shots, or performances I’ve heard “3, 2, 1” several times. My love for photography started at the age of 12 when I got a small pink canon digital camera for Christmas. My senior year I became a senior representative for MSM Photography and I absolutely loved what she did. I will always remember all the laughs, themed photoshoots, and amazing pictures. Mary is one of my biggest inspirations and I can’t wait to build my business so I can have senior reps one day. Being on the other side of photography is so different but so exciting. Especially when you get amazing feedback from clients. I know how special pictures can be, so I make sure I deliver those great memories.

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?
If a friend visited TX for a week, I would take her to downtown Fort Worth near 7th street. This place is known for the outgoing ambiance and is near the Kimball Art Museum. Some of my favorite places near this area is the Trinity Irish Pub, Velvet Taco, Chuy’s, Sushi Axiom, and Blue Sushi. They have incredible food, drinks, and customer service. Although Fort Worth is known for the Stockyards, 7th street is just as iconic. It has many photo opportunities and the view at all these places are great. Some great locations are parking garages in downtown, Trinity Park, Inspiration Alley, and the West 7th Street Bridge. This location has an infinite amount of great places.

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 wouldn’t be where I am without the support of my family, friends, dance coaches, and my son. They are my motivation and the reason I am able to do what I do. This past year I’ve seen the phrase “it takes a village” unfold right in front of me. My newborn has the perfect village that loves him so dearly. Whenever I need to go to dance practice or take pictures of my clients, my in-laws or parents are always there to help in any way possible. When times get tough I know these special people in my life will always have my back and keep me going.

Instagram: JNDPhotography

Image Credits
MSM Photography Madeline Annika Photography