We were lucky to catch up with Izabel Cortéz recently and have shared our conversation below.

Izabel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

I grew up in the era of America’s Next Top Model. I fell in love with creative shoots, especially during cycle 7- (the vaseline and black eyeliner shoot is iconic!) So I did what any other myspace-raged teenager did and begged my dad for a digital camera and photographed anything and everything. In 2014 I bought my very first canon dslr and kept practicing. It was the summer of 2017 that I picked a camera up again and had a friend model for me. By fall of 2019 I wanted to start family photography as a side hustle but the pandemic came and those plans were put on hold for a while. At the end of 2021 I turned to wedding photography by second shooting and eventually leading photography as well. Since then I have hosted my own styled shoots and have been able to add a more creative spin to my own sessions using some of the ANTM influence. I am primarily a wedding photographer and I offer lifestyle sessions as well.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a photographer who specializes in weddings that are timeless, warm and elevated. My approach is to have lots of open communication with my clients about their needs and throughout their wedding day. I offer a complimentary session for my couples to have as a practice session. My style is laid back and when it feels natural, I like to add an editorial flair to situations to create beautiful art.

My goal on wedding days is to document it as it unravels. I love when my couples are down to earth. I love when they have a good sense of fashion but most importantly when they are kind hearted and are family oriented.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

I think it’s important to remember that there is room for everybody in the wedding and photography industry. No two businesses are alike even if there are little similarities. I have a few close photographer friends who I can confide in and be real about where we are in business. Just like raising children, businesses take a village to nurture. Being encouraged and encouraging other business owners is crucial to staying afloat.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

My little side hustle has turned into a career for me. Not my first, as my marriage and motherhood come first. In a way I measure my “success” by crossing out a list of venues that I want to work at. Some of my milestones have been photographing couples who are now expecting children. That is something I am most proud of and keep looking forward to.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://izabelcortez.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izabelcortezphoto_/