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

Esther, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today.

Often, the greatest obstacles to achieving our dreams and goals are the fears and doubts we harbor within ourselves. In my early years as a photographer, these emotions played a significant role in shaping my journey. If I could travel back in time, I would undoubtedly make different decisions that might have accelerated my growth and taken me further along my path. My persistent fear of inadequacy is one aspect I wish I could change. As a photographer, I was presented with countless opportunities each day to capture the world around me. However, when fear and doubt set in, it felt as if a pause button had been pressed, leaving me frozen and engulfed in discouragement.

I believe I could have reached my current position more swiftly had I embraced self-belief earlier in my journey. Despite my struggles, I’ve come to understand that “We know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). While I may not have always had that in mind, it serves as a reminder of the greater purpose behind our experiences.
As I reflect on my early days in the industry, I recognize the importance of embracing experimentation. I would have allowed myself to explore new styles, subjects, and techniques without fear of judgment. In today’s digital age, platforms like YouTube offer invaluable resources for learning and growth, making it easier than ever to expand one’s skill set. Additionally, I would have prioritized mindfulness, focusing on the joy of photography rather than succumbing to comparisons with others. Mindfulness can foster an appreciation for one’s progress and creativity, free from self-criticism.

The fear of rejection, whether from clients, competitions, or audiences, can stifle creativity and deter risk-taking. Discouragement can arise from perceived failures, such as negative feedback or technical challenges, leading to a cycle of negativity that impedes growth. Ultimately, I have learned that “Fear is only as deep as the mind allows.” If you were to ask me what I would have done differently, my answer would be simple: I would have believed in myself. And to those reading this, I encourage you to do the same.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Esther Ramirez, and I am the Owner and Founder of Captured with Grace Photography. From a young age, I have had a passion for capturing moments through photography. In 2017, I joined my high school’s photography club, where I began to learn and practice, fostering an undeniable love for photographing everything I encountered. However, as I transitioned into adulthood, the demands of school and work overshadowed my passion, and I temporarily set my camera aside.
Years later, upon graduating high school, I rekindled my love for photography, recognizing the joy it once brought me. In 2021, I committed to pursue my gift seriously. I began serving in the photography ministry at my church, using it as a platform to practice and refine my skills. Through trial and error, I improved my craft and felt called to provide professional services to others, capturing their most significant moments.
Despite my enthusiasm, I struggled with self-doubt and insecurity. I frequently questioned my abilities and felt unprepared to offer my services, leading me to initially provide free photoshoots for friends and family. Over time, as I witnessed my growth and gained confidence, I learned a vital lesson: I did not need to compare myself to others.
If you are considering starting a business, I encourage you to believe in yourself and take that leap of faith. Throughout my photography journey, I have taken many steps of faith, and one of my proudest accomplishments is my perseverance, even when everything within me urged me to give up. I have been fortunate to have supportive individuals around me who believed in my vision.

What sets me apart in this industry is the grace of God that guides my work. From the outset of my business, I promised myself to deliver my best in every project, capturing special moments with kindness, dedication, and grace. While there are many photography businesses, my approach transcends merely treating clients as another job; I am invested in making your vision a reality and supporting you throughout the entire process.
In just one year of providing professional photography services, I have had the privilege of capturing numerous special occasions, including quinceañeras, graduations, baby showers, proms, headshots, and even a wedding in New York City. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me to be part of such significant moments in people’s lives.

Thank you for taking an interest in my story. I hope to have the blessing of working with you and your family one day. I promise to provide exceptional photography services and ensure that every occasion is memorable for years to come. God Bless you!

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Funding a business is a challenging endeavor that often requires hard work, sacrifice, and patience. The waiting can sometimes be the most difficult part. From a young age, I was inspired by a dream to capture people’s lives through my lens. However, achieving that dream was not always straightforward. During high school, I joined the photography club, but I lacked my own camera, which hindered my ability to practice and improve my skills. To address this, I took on a part-time job at a restaurant, diligently saving every dollar I earned over six months to purchase my first Canon camera. I remember counting each dollar, motivated by my passion for photography.
This experience taught me the value of hard work and perseverance in reaching my goals. The same principle applied when I sought to acquire additional lenses; I worked tirelessly to invest in better equipment. As I began receiving inquiries for various types of photoshoots, I realized my old camera required an upgrade. I conducted research on new equipment and committed to working twice as hard to invest in a new Canon camera and superior lens to meet the quality expectations of my clients.
A couple of years ago, on my birthday, my mother gifted me a new camera and lens—one of the most meaningful gifts I have ever received. I was taken aback, as I had not anticipated such a blessing, but I believe it was part of a larger plan. With this new equipment, I was able to provide the exceptional quality I desired for my clients and more. I can’t thank her enough for not only believing in my dreams but investing in them.

Throughout this journey, I have learned that faith plays a vital role in my endeavors. As stated in Psalm 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” While my journey is far from over, I am committed to continuing to fund my business with the belief that God will provide everything I need.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The primary goal driving my creative journey is to impact lives. Often, we encounter photographs that seem like mere images, but I strive for my work to evoke a sense of wonder at the blessings God has bestowed upon us. Whether it’s a family portrait or a candid moment, I want my clients to recognize the beauty in their lives. I aim to tell authentic stories through imagery that evoke emotion and foster connection, capturing the essence of fleeting moments and the beauty of everyday life. My vision is to create a visual narrative that not only preserves memories but also inspires others to appreciate the world around them and recognize the profound significance of the ordinary.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captured.withgrace/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Captured-with-Grace/61559053003347/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: Portfolio: https://capturedwithgrace.pic-time.com/client?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZl1oF19n9k1OyQwf-rT7HXDjLRAIjQNjkfxRD36bopH8SS7sZ7aqiCd8c_aem_RsHZ7C9t2roTydFFAhRd1Q

Image Credits

Captured with Grace Photography