We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Maya Yahfouf. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Maya below.

Maya, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of our favorite things to hear about is stories around the nicest thing someone has done for someone else – what’s the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

“Surround yourself with friends who would mention your name in a room full of opportunities.” A referral and a good review are the kindest things you can do for a business, especially a small one.
My customers have consistently shown great kindness towards me. Many of them have even evolved into cherished friends, and I feel fortunate to have witnessed the growth and transformation of their families. Participating in the celebration of their most intimate life milestones is truly a heartwarming experience. I cherish these relationships and celebrate these beautiful moments together—it’s a rare and precious bond to have in the business world.

Maya, 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 photograph relationships and give an experience of love, laughter and priceless memories.

I am a Portrait photographer commissioned for family, senior, maternity and newborn photoshoots. I offer studio and outdoor photography as I have a studio for newborn, maternity, cake smashes (first birthday), seasonal, and headshots and I work on location for family, seniors, and lifestyle headshots.

My body of work will outlive me into a family beyond me and it will mean to them more than anything they own; I preserve their Legacy!

I am unique in that I offer a wide variety of services tailored to each client. I have a studio filled with fun props and backdrops for newborn, maternity, first birthday cake smashes, seasonal sessions and headshots. I scout warm and bright locations for family and senior shoots, as well as lifestyle headshots.

I believe the client should enjoy every step of the photoshoot experience from the initial consultation and outfit planning, to choosing the location. I am available to answer questions every step of the way. The shoot itself is so much fun! It’s an enjoyable, unforgettable experience that concludes with clients selecting beautiful images to display in their homes! Most importantly, it’s about preserving their legacy for generations to come!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced me to close my studio for nearly two years. During this time, I had to rely on outdoor sessions while enduring the scorching Texas heat with my mask on. I set up my workspace in my driveway and consistently found ways to adapt. This period taught me valuable lessons in flexibility and tested my patience.

Fast forward to 2023, and artificial intelligence (AI) has entered the scene, making me not just a competitor with other photographers but with AI itself. I’m navigating these new challenges, just like everyone else in the industry. As I delve deeper into this AI-driven landscape, I’ve come to realize that the unique experience I create for my clients cannot be replicated by AI. It reaffirms the importance of the personal touch and human connection in my work.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Partnering with other creatives!
That would be the most effective, fun and satisfying way to grow in business.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.picturelegacy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/picture.legacy/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/picturelegacy

Image Credits
All Images are mine