Meet Krystal

We were lucky to catch up with Krystal recently and have shared our conversation below.

Krystal, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

When I reflect on my confidence and self-esteem, I recognize that much of it was shaped during my upbringing. As a child, I was incredibly outgoing, always eager to be involved in everything and anything that caught my interest. Whether it was school plays, sports, or neighborhood projects, I thrived in social settings and loved the attention. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve become more introspective and reserved.

Despite this shift, there’s one thing that has remained constant throughout: my deep-rooted passion for photography. When I’m behind the camera, all my anxieties and insecurities seem to fade away. I’m fully in my element, focused on capturing moments that will last a lifetime for my clients. The responsibility of preserving memories pushes me to give my best effort every single time. Confidence, in these moments, flows naturally because I’m doing what I love and know I can do well.

However, I’m also realistic about my limitations. I don’t pretend to know everything, but I’m always willing to learn. If something new comes up during a shoot, whether it’s a tricky technique or equipment challenge, I’ll try until I get it right—not just for me, but for my client’s satisfaction. This mindset has taught me that confidence is not about knowing everything but about the willingness to try, learn, and grow from each experience.

And when things don’t go according to plan? I own it with a sense of humor. For example, if I forget to charge a camera battery, I always carry a backup—because things happen. I make light of the situation by joking about how, “I’ve definitely done this before,” which helps ease any tension and reminds me (and my clients) that mistakes don’t define my abilities. It’s how I handle them that matters.

At the end of the day, I believe that true confidence comes from within. But it’s also nurtured by the experiences and challenges we face, and the ability to keep moving forward despite setbacks. My upbringing taught me to embrace challenges, and photography has given me a platform where I can continue building my self-esteem, one shot at a time.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Hi there! My name is Krystal, and I’m the heart behind Ruby Rose Photography, a photography brand rooted in capturing raw emotion and preserving life’s most meaningful moments. I started this journey as a tribute to my late mother, whose memory continues to inspire the way I see and freeze time through my lens.

What makes Ruby Rose Photography special is that it’s not just about creating beautiful images—it’s about telling a story, your story. Whether it’s a milestone celebration, a quiet candid moment, or the joy of pet companionship, I focus on making each session feel personal, warm, and unforgettable. I believe photography should be accessible to everyone, which is why I proudly offer affordable session options without compromising quality or care.

Something new and exciting: I’ve recently expanded my offerings to include pet photography and end-of-life tribute sessions, which have become some of the most heartfelt work I’ve done. I’m also booking graduation and summer mini sessions now, and I’m always up for creative challenges and custom shoots!

I’d love for you to follow along or reach out if you’re ready to document a chapter of your story. Let’s create something timeless together.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been empathy, adaptability, and a deep commitment to storytelling.

Empathy has shaped the way I connect with clients. Understanding people’s emotions and what moments matter to them allows me to capture photos that feel deeply personal and authentic. For those just starting out, I recommend actively listening to your clients—get to know their stories and what they value. That emotional connection will come through in your work.
Adaptability has been key, especially in photography where lighting, weather, or even moods can change in an instant. Being able to pivot and stay calm under pressure is something I learned through experience. My advice? Embrace the unexpected. Practice in different environments, try new styles, and don’t be afraid to mess up. That’s how growth happens.
Commitment to storytelling is what gives my work purpose. I’m not just taking pictures—I’m preserving moments. Invest time in understanding composition, lighting, and how to capture a feeling rather than just a scene. Study other storytellers—not just photographers—and think about how you can evoke emotion through your own lens.
For anyone just beginning: trust your instincts, lead with heart, and know that every session, every client, and every mistake is part of building your craft and your confidence.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instill a strong sense of determination and belief in myself. My mom was always the one encouraging my sibling and me to chase our dreams, reminding us that while there would be obstacles along the way, nothing was out of reach if we stayed focused. She was incredibly supportive—always in our corner, cheering us on no matter what. From her, I learned the value of staying driven, working hard, and never giving up on something that matters to you.

My dad also played a big role in shaping my mindset. He reinforced the idea that hard work and dedication eventually pay off, even if progress takes time. Together, their influence gave me both the heart and the hustle to pursue my passion and build something meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/rubyrosephotos21
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rubyrosephotos21

Image Credits

Norfolk Botanical Garden
Haunted Hunt Club Farm
Old Dominion University
Impact Church