We were lucky to catch up with Terez Balboa recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Terez thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Often outsiders look at a successful business and think it became a success overnight. Even media and especially movies love to gloss over nitty, gritty details that went into that middle phase of your business – after you started but before you got to where you are today. In our experience, overnight success is usually the result of years of hard work laying the foundation for success, but unfortunately, it’s exactly this part of the story that most of the media ignores. Can you talk to us about your scaling up story – what are some of the nitty, gritty details folks should know about?

I scaled up by staying consistent, learning what works, and building community. When the economy shifted, I realized my original audience’s spending habits changed, so I had to adjust. Instead of trying to reach everyone, I rebranded and started focusing on people who still valued investing in themselves — creatives, entrepreneurs, and small brands who wanted quality content and growth. That pivot helped me create experiences that actually connect people, build portfolios, and grow businesses. Once I found that balance, everything started scaling natural

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Terez Balboa, the founder and creative director of Balboa Unlimited, a creative community and photography brand based in Jacksonville, FL. I got into this industry originally just taking pictures for fun, but it evolved quickly once I realized how many people wanted a space to create, build their portfolio, and feel supported. What started as just me doing photoshoots turned into a full ecosystem where creatives can develop content, gain exposure, collaborate with others, and grow their brands.

I provide themed photoshoots, content campaigns, headshots, casting opportunities, branding sessions, networking events, and community-based experiences that make it easy for people whether they are models, artists, small business owners, or influencers to get professional-quality content without needing big budgets, a full team, or industry connections. I focus on direction, posing, styling guidance, and creative concepts so clients do not just get pictures, they leave with confidence, a plan, and content that actually elevates their brand.

A major problem I solve is accessibility. A lot of people want to market themselves or take their creativity seriously, but they do not know where to start, or they do not have resources. My shoots are affordable, organized, and built around collaboration and networking. People can join the community, show up, and immediately have something to post, ways to connect, and momentum to grow.

What sets me apart is the energy and the community. I am not just running photoshoots, I am creating a culture. People feel welcomed, seen, and supported, and that is why they return. It is a safe space to grow, try new things, and find a family of creatives who truly support each other.

I am most proud of how fast we have grown and the impact it has had. Seeing people book brand deals, build confidence, start modeling careers, launch businesses, or simply feel good about themselves because of the content we create means everything to me.

If there is one thing I want potential clients and followers to know, it is that Balboa Unlimited is more than photos. It is a platform, a community, and a lifestyle. We are building something that helps people step into their purpose, market themselves, and connect with others who share that drive. Whether you are new or experienced, you do not have to grow alone. This is where you come to create and get better.

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

A major time I had to pivot was when I realized that my original audience mostly wanted cute pictures every once in a while rather than long term brand building or consistent content. I began doing simple and affordable shoots for beginners, but as the community grew, the people booking me became more serious about their image, collaborations, and opportunities. They wanted direction, themes, structure, and content that helped them level up, not just photos.

Once I noticed that shift, I changed my entire business model. I moved away from simple one off shoots and focused on creating a full community of returning models, entrepreneurs, and creatives who want to grow. I raised prices, created organized campaigns, added branding opportunities, and built systems that allow people to network, learn, and market themselves through the content we create together.

That pivot transformed Balboa Unlimited from a photography service into a creative hub. People started coming to invest in themselves, connect with others, and develop real momentum for their personal or professional goals. The shift in audience is what helped the brand evolve into what it is toda

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

I keep in touch with clients by creating an ongoing relationship rather than a one time booking. I stay active through group chats, social media updates, direct messages, and community style events. I communicate consistently, share resources, introduce people to each other, and always make sure new clients feel welcomed and seen. People do not just come for photos. They come for the connection.

To build brand loyalty, I focus on creating a culture. I make sure every experience feels personal, organized, and uplifting. I ask clients about their goals, help them with posing, offer guidance on marketing, and give them chances to collaborate with other creatives. I also bring people back through themed campaigns, returning client events, exclusive opportunities, and spaces where they can grow their brand while having fun.

People stay loyal when they feel included, respected, and supported. I am intentional about remembering names, celebrating wins, reposting their content, and making sure they feel like part of the family. Balboa Unlimited is not just a service. It is a community and people want to return when they feel like they belong.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Balboaunlimited
• Facebook: Terez Balboa
• Twitter: Twerkforbalboa01
• Youtube: Socialwatchtv

Image Credits

BALBOA UNLIMITED MODELS