Meet Henry Anleu

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

Henry , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I didn’t find my purpose in a moment — I found it through the process. For a long time, I was just surviving, dealing with depression at a young age, not really living with intention. But photography became my way out — a way to process pain, capture beauty, and connect with something deeper. Over time, I realized it wasn’t just about taking pictures — it was about telling stories that mattered. My purpose became clear when I saw how my work could inspire, heal, and elevate others. Faith played a huge role too — I had to believe that my past wasn’t a limitation but a setup for something bigger. My purpose is rooted in using my vision to serve, uplift, and leave a legacy that outlives me.

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’m a portrait and fashion photographer, and the founder of StreetDreamz Photography LLC. My work focuses on capturing powerful, emotional moments—whether it’s a maternity shoot, an engagement session, or fashion editorials. What makes my brand different is the soul behind every frame. I don’t just snap photos—I document legacy, emotion, and energy. I work with both everyday people and high-profile creatives, always aiming to make each client feel seen, confident, and unforgettable in front of the lens.

What excites me most is seeing how a single image can shift someone’s confidence, change how they see themselves, or inspire them to chase their own vision. Photography has become my ministry in a way—bridging creativity, storytelling, and faith.

Right now, I’m expanding in a few directions. I’m currently working on my book, called Shot by Faith: From Lowriders to Legacy, a photography memoir that tells my raw story—from struggle to creative breakthrough. I’m also building a faceless YouTube channel to teach others about photography and lighting techniques in a modern, accessible way. Eventually, my goal is to open my own studio space in LA—a creative hub for photography, storytelling, and mentorship.

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?

The three most impactful qualities in my journey have been discipline, vision, and storytelling.

Discipline kept me consistent when things were quiet. Vision gave me direction when I couldn’t see results yet. And storytelling helped me build a brand that connects on a deeper level.

My advice? Show up daily, even when no one’s watching. Stay focused on your long-term vision. And learn how to make people feel something with your work. That’s how you stand out and build something real.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

For sure — I’m always down to connect with other creatives. Whether you’re a model, stylist, designer, or just someone with a dope vision, I’m all about collaborating on projects that have purpose and real energy behind them.

I’m especially interested in working with people who care about culture, and legacy. If you vibe with that, let’s link.

Hit me up on IG @streetdreamzphotography_llc or through my site streetdreamzphotographyllc.com. I’m always open to building with good people.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Anastasia K.
Robert Z.
Jessica R.
Carly M.
Dipti
Jenya

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