Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yuka Schad. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Yuka, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had started sooner?

I started my photography business while I was studying graphic design in college, and working as a web designer at a local golf retailer. My job was pretty stable and comfortable so I was a little afraid to lose the safety blanket, but I do wish that I left earlier to dedicate all my time and energy into photography. Doing that would have advanced my skills and business faster, enabling me to become more successful leading up to today. There was financial risk in doing that, but looking back I think it may have been worth it.

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

I’m based in San Diego, California and am enamored with beautifully styled, light and airy images. Pictures that are both timeless and modern. Since 2015, I have specialized in one-of-a-kind art portrait photography to document family life, love, maternity, and newborn moments.

I was born and raised in Nagoya, Japan and started taking art classes when I was 2 years old. Later I studied commercial architecture design but then took a different path and began working in the fashion industry. When I was 25 years old, I moved from Japan to New York City to experience American art and fashion. I then ended up in San Diego where I worked with a web design team at a local golf company for 12 years.

I’m a loving wife to my husband Nathan and mother to a beautiful nearly-two year old girl Estelle, along with our precious doggies Melody and Indy. I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in my mid-thirties and my oncologist recommended a hysterectomy as soon as possible to avoid the risk of death. We still wanted a child at the time and tried multiple IVFs to no success, considering surrogacy as well. A few years later we decided to move on and travel the world, taking pictures of its beauty instead of becoming parents. Suddenly the miracle happened to us and I became pregnant naturally then eventually gave birth to our daughter!

After that experience, family photography became more meaningful to me than ever before, especially with maternity and newborn sessions. I connect so closely with each family and their bond among each other, sincerely appreciating the opportunity to capture their special moments. Using my creative skills and life experiences, it is incredibly fulfilling to deliver amazing images for my clients that will last forever.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

As I mentioned before, I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer when I was 37 years old. Before this diagnosis, I did not have any previous health issues. To have this type of cancer at such a young age was surprising and felt devastating. My life completely changed after that experience.

For the first couple weeks after learning about my diagnosis I was so worried and cried often, but soon thereafter I realized that everything is determined through my mind and will result in me being happy or sad. I decided to focus on and enjoy what I still am able to do in life rather than think about what I cannot do anymore. I think this mindset makes me a stronger and better person.

I underwent hysterectomy surgery when my baby was just 4 months old in 2021. Finally my endometrial cancer marathon was over. I cannot have another baby, but I am happy and thankful for everything that led up to this point after the battle. If you are diagnosed with or worried about having endometrial cancer, please reach out to me if you are open to talk about it. I am here for you!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I am very honored and beyond delighted when my photography lifts up a family’s spirits, especially when they may be going through a tough time. Photos are a beautiful reminder of happy occasions, to see a tiny and precious baby again or a touching moment between a couple, their relatives, or children. These instances will make people smile, cherishing the images every time they are viewed. I believe portrait photography is an investment in happiness, freezing a priceless moment in time that can be passed on to following generations and lasting forever.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yukaschaddesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yukaschadphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yukaschadphotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuka-schad-4679042b/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yukaphoto