We were lucky to catch up with Tiffany Melendez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Tiffany, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?
Let me take you back in time to how this all began. I’ve been experimenting with cameras since I was about eight years old. My parents owned a film camera that they used to capture our family memories, and I quickly fell in love with the idea of preserving those moments. Thanks to Christmas and birthday wish lists, I eventually started experimenting with digital cameras, and my passion grew from there.
At 17, I started my first job and began saving for my first “professional” camera: a DSLR. By the time I turned 18, I had enough saved to buy a used one I’d had my eye on. I was nervous but excited when I finally clicked “purchase.” I remember my mom being super excited for me. Who knew that moment would start a domino effect in my life?
I put effort into everything I do, always striving to be my best. That mindset pushed me to practice with my camera every day and everywhere I went. I’ve always been drawn to nature, so capturing landscapes came naturally to me.
While I was in college, I started sharing my photos on Instagram. One day, someone messaged me asking if I’d be open to photographing them. I remember second-guessing myself—those sneaky thoughts of “Am I good enough?” crept in. But I didn’t let that stop me. I said yes.
I didn’t really know how long a photoshoot should last, so we ended up shooting for about four hours that day—and I earned a solid $50. I was exhausted, but the happiness I felt was unmatched. I had officially made my first dollar doing something I loved. That moment showed me that I could gain real clients. It was never about the money—it was about the joy of being behind the camera and capturing something meaningful.
Tiffany, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Hi there! I’m Tiffany Melendez—your new photografriend. I used to label myself strictly as a “Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer,” but at this point in my journey, I simply like to call myself a photographer, a lover of life, and a girl obsessed with capturing beautiful moments and meaningful experiences.
I’m a full-time photographer for both my business and my marketing career. This has given me the opportunity to explore and capture a wide variety of genres, including food, architecture, portraits, cars, and events. In my personal business, I specialize in working with couples, families, and mothers—and I’m especially passionate about empowering individuals through what I call self-love sessions.
What sets me apart is that I don’t box myself in. I love being my complete self and encourage others to do the same during their time with me. I keep an open mind and heart when working with clients, and I love helping them bring their unique photo visions to life. My goal is to make people feel seen and celebrated.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for me has been showing up as my full, authentic self in everything I do. It’s like the quote says: “Be the energy you want to attract.” I only want to work with people who truly want to work with me—and that means being okay with not being everyone’s cup of tea. If someone doesn’t connect with my work, that’s totally fine. I believe what matters most is to keep creating and staying true to yourself.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
The year 2023 was the turning point—the year I officially transformed my “side hustle” into a full-time career. For years, I pursued traditional education, earning both a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity. Photography, at the time, felt like a passion that was too far-fetched to turn into a legitimate career. But somehow, it revealed itself to be my true purpose.
I’ve always believed in manifestation and the saying, “What’s meant to be will be,” and that’s exactly what unfolded for me.
I’m incredibly grateful to now call photography my everyday job and career. What I love most is how it constantly challenges me to grow creatively across various genres—from lifestyle and weddings to food, architecture, and beyond. Taking the leap into full-time photography has not only refined my skills but also helped me carve out a unique space in the market.
Key milestones in this journey have included seeing my work published in various magazine covers and marketing ads, building a consistent client base, investing in better equipment and education, and finally having the confidence to say, “This is what I do for a living.” Every step has been a building block toward where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tiffanymelendezphoto.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/tiffanymelendezphoto
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-melendez-mba/
Image Credits
Tiffany Melendez Photo LLC