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

Claudia, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

In photography, a photo is worth a thousand words. I believe everyone should have access to creating their memories, regardless of what they’re able to pay. About a year ago, a very close family friend’s father suffered a tragic accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. I’ve known this family for nearly 20 years, and our families are incredibly close, so I was devastated by the news.

After some time, their eldest daughter reached out, asking if I could take family photos to celebrate how far they had come and to create some new memories together. I was delighted to help and arranged to take the photos in their home to accommodate her father’s condition.

As I captured these moments, I created a fun environment, with everyone laughing, smiling, and eventually tearing up, grateful to share this moment with their father. It made me so thankful to be there, able to capture that for them. I was glad I could give them this gift, especially since, when I first started in photography, they were some of my biggest supporters. In that moment, I felt I was giving back something they needed, just as they had once done for me.

Claudia, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Claudia Chicas, and I am a Houston-based freelance photographer passionate about capturing the unique beauty and essence of every moment. My work ranges from dynamic event photography to intimate portrait sessions, and I strive to create images that tell compelling stories.

I began my photography journey in 2015, collaborating with my sister, who worked as a photographer for JC Penney Portraits. She taught me everything about photography behind the scenes, from posing techniques to understanding what worked best for clients. During my senior year of high school, I decided to take a photography class to expand my knowledge. Although my teacher didn’t believe I would win, I entered a district-wide photography contest—and ended up winning “Best in Show.”

From then on, my passion and love for photography only grew. I went on to college and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in photography and digital media from the University of Houston. With a keen eye for detail and a love for collaborating closely with clients, I aim to deliver high-quality, memorable photographs that truly reflect their vision. Whether you’re looking for vibrant event coverage or a personal photo shoot, I am dedicated to making every session a creative and enjoyable experience.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the chance to create meaningful connections and memories through my work. Every photo session I do is unique, capturing a moment that might otherwise be fleeting. There’s something incredibly special about seeing people’s faces light up when they see themselves and their loved ones portrayed in a way that feels real and beautiful.

I’m especially grateful for the times when I can give something truly personal—like the family photos I took for a close family friend after they went through a life-changing accident. Knowing I could help create lasting memories for them after such a difficult time was a profound reminder of why I do this work. Photography allows me to give people a way to hold onto their most cherished moments, and that’s deeply fulfilling.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, my goal as a photographer is to make the art of capturing memories accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget or circumstances, while also building a sustainable business. I want my work to be a source of connection and celebration, especially for people who may not always have the opportunity to create lasting memories through professional photography.

At the heart of my creative journey is a mission to capture genuine, meaningful moments that people can treasure for years. Whether it’s a joyful family gathering, a personal portrait session, or an important life event, I aim to tell my clients’ unique stories in a way that feels authentic and beautiful to them. Photography has the power to freeze time and preserve emotions, and I feel honored to share that gift with others as I build a business that reflects my values.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theboxed.myportfolio.com
• Instagram: thebox.ed

Image Credits

Claudia Chicas