We recently connected with Stephany Hernandez Monarres and have shared our conversation below.
Stephany , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
I discovered the power of optimism early in life, especially when faced with challenging circumstances. I grew up in Torreón, a city in Mexico where economic opportunities were often limited, and it became clear to me that if I wanted to change my situation and achieve something more, I couldn’t rely on anyone else, I had to do it on my own. It was during these formative years that optimism became one of my most valuable tools. It wasn’t just about maintaining a positive attitude, it was about finding hope and strength in the face of adversity, and using that to fuel my pursuit of goals and dreams.
In a city where the odds often felt stacked against me, there were many moments when the road ahead seemed insurmountable. There were days when failure felt inevitable, and the weight of uncertainty threatened to hold me back. But through it all, I learned that optimism wasn’t about ignoring the difficulties; it was about choosing to believe in the possibility of success, even when things weren’t going my way. I learned that keeping a positive mindset didn’t make challenges disappear, but it did make them easier to navigate and more manageable.
Keeping that hopeful outlook, especially during tough times, became essential to my survival—both personally and professionally. In many ways, I had no other option but to keep moving forward, despite the odds. And though it wasn’t always easy to smile or stay positive when everything seemed stacked against me, doing so made the journey a bit smoother. Optimism gave me the energy to push past obstacles and reminded me that there was always a chance for things to get better.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a photographer specializing in newborn, maternity, and portrait photography. My love for photography began in my teenage years when I was working as a waitress. I vividly remember always carrying my film camera with me, even on the busiest days, capturing small, beautiful moments, whether it was the fresh fruit on the kitchen counter or glasses lined up on a shelf. Even back then, I understood the power of photography to freeze time and preserve memories. I’ve always believed that every moment counts and deserves to be captured forever.
It wasn’t until 2016, however, that I decided to take my first formal photography course. The course was basic, but it opened my eyes to the magic of photography, especially when I learned how to use my digital camera in manual mode. That was a turning point for me, and I knew I had found my calling.
In 2017, I moved to the United States, and it was here that I discovered newborn photography through a friend who invited me to assist with a photoshoot. The experience was transformative. I felt an immediate connection to the delicate nature of newborn photography, the opportunity to capture such precious and fleeting moments was something that truly resonated with me. After that, I sought out professional training and had the privilege of studying with renowned newborn photographer Ana Brandt in New York City.
Right now, I’m in an exciting phase of expansion, where I’m dedicating a lot of my time to experimenting with new ideas and styles. I’m constantly looking for ways to innovate and push my creative boundaries. What excites me most about my work is how deeply personal it is. I am very open-minded when it comes to listening to my clients’ visions, and I love creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for them. Whether it’s capturing the glow of a mother-to-be or the first moments of a newborn’s life, I see it as an honor to tell each family’s story through my lens.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I believe the three most important qualities that have shaped my path are compassion, inquisitiveness, and persistence.
Compassion: In my work as a photographer, connecting with my clients on a personal level has been crucial. Compassion allows me to understand their emotions and capture moments that are truly meaningful. It also helps me create a safe, comfortable environment, which is vital in my line of work, especially when photographing vulnerable moments like maternity or newborn sessions.
Inquisitiveness: Photography is an ever-evolving field, and I’ve always been driven by a desire to learn and experiment. Being inquisitive pushes me to explore new techniques, styles, and ideas. It encourages me to never settle, to always ask questions, and to approach my work with a sense of curiosity. This mindset has helped me grow not only as a photographer but as a creative individual.
Persistence: The road to where I am today wasn’t always smooth. There were moments of doubt and failure, but persistence was key. It’s important to keep going, even when the journey feels challenging. The ability to persevere through setbacks and to stay committed to your craft is what ultimately leads to growth and success.
My advice for those just starting out is this: Whatever you do, do it with passion and love. Immerse yourself in your craft and learn as much as you can about it. Don’t be afraid of fear, it’s natural, and it can even be a sign that you’re on the right path. Do it with the fear, and let it drive you forward. And most importantly, always stay curious and brave. Keep pushing the boundaries of what you know and never be afraid to fail, because each mistake brings you closer to where you want to be.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, my first instinct is to stop what I’m doing and give myself a moment to breathe. I’ll usually take a walk to clear my mind, or sometimes I’ll play calming music or meditate. These practices help me center myself and regain focus. After that break, I come back to the task at hand with a fresh perspective. It’s amazing how taking a step away can make everything feel clearer and more manageable, and I’m often able to find a solution or approach things from a new angle.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @stephany.hernandez27
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