Meet Ana Pape

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ana Pape a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ana, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

Creativity ebbs and flows just like most things in life. When I’m in a slump, I like to scroll through Instagram or Pinterest or try a new bake from someone whose photos I really admire which usually sparks a fresh idea or a new way to approach something. Sometimes, it helps to step outside and go for a walk. Spending time outside and watching how the light filters through leaves or reflects off water always reminds me why I love creating in the first place.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a food photographer and recipe developer based in Houston, TX. I run Just a Bit More Cinnamon, where I capture and create cozy, inviting food imagery for brands and small businesses.

There’s something really special about collaborating with food brands that are passionate about what they make. I enjoy translating that passion into images that make people want to gather, cook, or gift something delicious.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I’d say the three qualities that shaped my journey the most were a strong work ethic, perseverance, and a commitment to continual learning. Building a creative business takes time and patience, but investing in yourself and in the vision you have for your future is one of the best things you can do. And don’t be afraid to take the shot, even when an opportunity feels slightly out of reach. You never know what doors might open unless you try.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

One book that’s played an important role in my development is Playing Big by Tara Mohr. It was recommended to me years ago by my life coach, and one of the most impactful takeaways was her discussion of the two different Hebrew words for fear found in the Bible: pachad and yirah.

Pachad is the irrational fear of imagined worst-case scenarios, while yirah is the feeling that arises when we step into a larger space than we’re used to, which can be exciting and a little intimidating. Learning to distinguish between the two completely shifted how I think about fear and growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.justabitmorecinnamon.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justabitmorecinnamon/