We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Luz Maria Castillo-barba. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Luz Maria below.
Hi Luz Maria, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding my purpose in life came when I picked up my camera—it became my form of self-expression. When I first started photography, I was drawn to creating different worlds through my photos. I really got into conceptual photography, using it as a way to express my fears and emotions. What fueled me even more was the incredible support I received from my friends and family. Seeing their reactions to my work gave me the confidence to keep going. I realized that photography wasn’t just about capturing images; it was about documenting the feelings and stories of others. That realization gave me a sense of purpose, and it’s what keeps me focused and passionate about my photography today.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I always get a little nervous talking about myself, but here goes! Hello, my name is Luz Castillo-Barba, and I’m an LA-based Latina photographer. I picked up a camera at a young age, but it wasn’t until high school that I really started to focus on it. My older brother was the one who bought me my first Canon Rebel for college, and that’s where my photography journey began!
What keeps me going in this field is my deep passion for the art of photography and the way I pour my heart into every shot. I approach photography as a way to connect, share emotions, and tell stories. I have two accounts to showcase different aspects of my work: “Amor.Eternox” is dedicated to my elopements, engagements, and family lifestyle shoots, while my main account, “lucyographer,” is a blend of my personal life and more of my creative, artistic projects.
For me, photography isn’t just about capturing images—it’s about telling a story, capturing a feeling, and creating something that holds meaning. I truly believe that every image I create, whether it’s a creative shoot or an elopement, is an extension of myself. This deep connection to my work is what allows me to bring a unique perspective to each project I take on. Every shot is personal, and I hope it speaks to others in a way that feels authentic and true to who I am as an artist.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say there are three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, self-confidence, and creativity. These have not only shaped my growth as a photographer, but also my personal development.
Resilience – The ability to keep going, even when things don’t go as planned, has been crucial. There were many moments when I doubted myself or faced setbacks whether it was struggling to get clients or dealing with imposter syndrome. But being resilient meant pushing through those moments, learning from them, and using them to fuel my growth.
To anyone who is starting just know when things get tough, don’t give up. Keep shooting, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every failure is an opportunity to grow, and the more you push through those challenges, the more you’ll strengthen your skills and mindset.
Self-confidence – For a long time, I struggled with undervaluing myself. I would lower my rates to make myself more accessible, or second-guess my skills. But over time, I learned that confidence in your work is key. Knowing your worth and standing by it is essential for your growth, both personally and professionally. If you don’t believe in your own value, it’s hard for others to believe in it too.
Don’t sell yourself short. Know that your work is meaningful and valuable. Take time to understand your strengths, and trust that people who love your work will respect your rates. Confidence doesn’t come overnight, but it’s something you build by learning to appreciate your own unique perspective and talents.
Creativity – Photography, at its core, is a creative art. The more I allowed myself to explore different styles, concepts, and ways of seeing the world, the more I developed my own voice as an artist. Creativity has been my biggest driver. Whether I’m shooting a wedding or a conceptual piece, the creativity I pour into every project is what makes it feel personal and unique.
Stay curious and never stop experimenting. Explore new ideas, challenge yourself with different concepts, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Inspiration can come from anywhere, so let your creativity flow and don’t be afraid to take risks. The more you explore and play with your craft, the more you’ll find your own artistic style.
For anyone early in their journey, my advice is simple: stay committed, trust yourself, and keep pushing your creative boundaries. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with resilience, confidence, and a commitment to creativity, you’ll get there. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and challenge you, and keep learning—because this industry is always evolving, and so will you.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was give me the freedom and unwavering support to follow my passions, even when it seemed uncertain or unconventional. They both left Mexico at a young age to come to America with nothing and worked incredibly hard to build a better life for my brothers and I. Despite the challenges they faced, they never once discouraged me from pursuing something outside the typical “safe” career path.
When I told them I wanted to be an artist and pursue photography, I was nervous—especially knowing all the sacrifices they’d made. But instead of pushing me toward a more “practical” career, they embraced my dreams wholeheartedly. They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders from the very beginning, always believing in my potential, even when I didn’t fully believe in myself. Their constant support gave me the confidence to take risks and chase my creative passions. It’s that foundation of love and encouragement that has fueled my journey, and even though photography isn’t yet my full-time career, my parents continue to push me to take the leap and make it my main focus.
To this day, they proudly share my work with their friends and family, and that means the world to me. It’s not just the support they’ve given, but the belief they instilled in me—that I could carve my own path and create something meaningful, even when it wasn’t the easiest or most conventional route. Their faith in me is something I carry with me every day.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @lucyographer or @Amor.eternox
Image Credits
Luz Castillo Barba
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
