We were lucky to catch up with Brenica De La Torre recently and have shared our conversation below.

Brenica, appreciate you joining us today. How do you feel about asking friends and family to support your business? What’s appropriate, what’s not? Where do you draw the line?

When I started my photography business in 2020, the world was in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. I had just made the difficult decision to step away from my career in teaching to prioritize time with my family, and launching a new business during such an uncertain time felt like a major leap of faith.

What began as a part time hobby quickly grew into a real business, thanks to the incredible support of my family and friends. They helped spread the word by sharing my Instagram, referring others, and even volunteering for early portfolio sessions. Their encouragement, trust, and willingness to invest in me gave me the foundation I needed to grow. I’m proud of how far it’s come since then.

Brenica, 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?

I’m a family and newborn photographer based in Northern Colorado. My love for photography began back in high school, where I took film classes, learned how to develop images in the darkroom, and received my first camera. Back then, I spent my time photographing friends and siblings.

In college, I experimented with wedding photography, charging very little and learning a lot in the process. I quickly realized that while weddings were a valuable learning experience, they didn’t ignite my creativity in the way that family photography did.

Photography took a backseat when I began my career as a first grade teacher. I poured my heart into the classroom, had amazing colleagues, and truly loved working with my students.

Everything changed in 2019 when I became a mother. My heart shifted in a big way. I wanted more time at home, but never imagined I could leave a job I loved. Then Covid hit. Suddenly, I was teaching virtually while also spending unexpected quality time with my daughter and husband. That season made it clear: I wanted to be present for my family. With encouragement from my husband, I began revisiting photography—this time, with the intention of building a business.

Starting Brenica Lynn Photography during such an uncertain time was a leap of faith. I dedicated myself to learning; enrolling in online courses, investing in mentorships, and practicing daily. I focused on mastering my camera, understanding light, refining my editing style, and gaining confidence behind the lens. Over the years, I’ve honed my voice as an artist and built deep, meaningful connections with the families I photograph.

I believe my teaching background has been a huge asset in my photography… it helps me connect with kids, make them feel comfortable, and create fun, relaxed sessions. I leave each shoot a little sweaty, but always with a full heart.

Today, I’m a mom to three and spend most of my days at home with them. Being able to craft a career that allows me to be present for my family while running a successful, passion-driven business has been one of the greatest gifts. Working primarily in the evenings during golden hour allows me to maintain balance and to do what I love, both as a mother and a photographer.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I’ve always prioritized authenticity in my business, and that includes how I approach social media. I made a conscious decision early on not to buy followers, which has meant slower growth but it’s been entirely organic and genuine. There was a time when I posted daily and was deeply tuned in to the algorithm, but over time I’ve found that social media can be one of the more draining aspects of my work.

These days, I post more sporadically and try to focus on sharing meaningful content over playing to trends. I know how important a strong online presence is, especially in a visual business like photography, so I’m currently considering outsourcing this part of my business to free up time and creative energy.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative, especially in family photography, is knowing that I’m preserving fleeting, meaningful moments that people will treasure for a lifetime. Kids grow, families change, and time moves quickly. Getting to pause those moments to create something tangible from a split second of connection, love, or laughter is incredibly fulfilling.

There’s something so special about hearing a client say, ‘This photo feels like us.’ It’s not just about pretty images; it’s about creating something lasting and real. That sense of purpose and emotional connection is what fills my creative cup and keeps me coming back with my camera, again and again. I truly love what I do!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.brenicalynnphotography.com
• Instagram: @brenicalynnphotography