We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mai Ly a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Mai, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Becoming a photographer has truly awakened the artistic side I’ve carried with me since I was young. Art has always been my world, from painting, drawing, airbrushing, and woodworking to sewing—you name it, I’m all in. But photography resonates on a different level; there’s magic in being able to freeze a moment in time or to create a fantasy from a single image. While I sometimes miss the structure and steady rhythm of the corporate world, taking the leap of faith to follow my dreams after having my daughter was the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s still surreal that I get to make a living doing something that brings me so much happiness

Mai, 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?

I’m Mai, a photographer based in Stockton, CA, with a deep passion for maternity and boudoir photography. Becoming a mother changed my life entirely—my daughter is my miracle baby, and through her, I discovered a love so profound that it continues to grow every day. This experience taught me the beauty of the bond between a mother and her child, and I strive to capture that pure, unconditional love in every maternity session. Every time I photograph a momma and her baby, it’s about honoring the journey, the love, and the strength that comes with motherhood.

When it comes to boudoir, I feel like a kid in a candy store! I get so excited, and I’m the ultimate hype woman for every woman who steps into my studio. Boudoir, to me, is more than just photos—it’s about embracing our strength, vulnerability, and unique beauty. The world can be tough, and life can be challenging, so I’ve created a safe space where women can just be themselves, let go of trauma, and embrace their inner “badass.” As a cancer survivor, I also feel a strong commitment to celebrating other survivors; they deserve to feel empowered, sexy, and celebrated just as much as anyone.

While I absolutely love photographing families and weddings, maternity and boudoir sessions hold a unique place in my heart. My goal is to create an environment where women feel celebrated, beautiful, and empowered—no matter what their journey has been. It’s my purpose and privilege to capture these moments and provide images that help my clients see their own beauty, strength, and worth.

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

The most rewarding part of my work is hearing clients tell me how much the photos mean to them and how they moved them to tears. It warms my heart to know I’ve played a role in their journey of self-love, healing, or motherhood

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to become one of the best boudoir photographers, known for capturing powerful, intimate, and empowering images that help women embrace their true beauty and confidence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://missmaiphotography.pixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missmaiphotography.com

Image Credits

@cristina_roberts_photography
@dreamcaptureweddingphoto
@glambrandphoto