Meet Erika Huezo | Destination Wedding & Elopement Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Huezo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first decided I wanted to start a business I was just about to finish my last year of college. I knew that photography was something I wanted to do and wanted to take more seriously. I have always been super passionate about photography. I wanted to make it a career rather than just a hobby. At the time I was second shooting a ton of weddings before I decided to start taking solo weddings. The biggest thing for me was being able to have a job/career that allowed me to have a flexible schedule and travel. Traveling is super important to me and it’s something I have always wanted to do for myself apart from photography. So basically I wanted a career that allowed me to do both. I specialize in destination weddings and elopements now. This job and business have given me some of the most incredible opportunities and experiences that I honestly did not think would have been possible for me.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think what sets me apart from other photographers in the industry is that I truly do value my clients and their experience with me. Client communication is huge for me and I am always trying to develop my client experience. I am most proud of my progress. Looking back to where I was three years ago when I started this business to now is so rewarding. There were so many times I second guessed myself and asking myself if I made the right decision. Looking back I know that I did. I am most excited to see where this career will be three years from now. Getting to where I am now was not easy. It required a-lot of dedication and sacrifices. Missing out on family events, birthdays, nights out with friends, sometimes even holidays. I continued to push myself even when I wanted to give up. Something I always tell myself is that I’ve come this far.. why would I quit now? It took a lot of self coaching and realization of what I wanted for myself. Mindset is everything. I have learned so so much throughout the past three years of being a small business owner. One of the main things being to always stay true to yourself. If there is one thing that has helped me it’s staying true to who I am outside of photography. My clients know who I am. What I like, what I don’t like, my favorite things, my favorite places to travel, etc. There is a million wedding photographers out there, but I know I’m not going to be the one for everyone and that’s okay. I think showing your personality and being you truly helps attract those dream clients.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Even though I am always on the go West Virginia is my home base currently. West Virginia is very different from the west coast. Growing up there and traveling has allowed me to find some of the most epic hidden gems in the state. Hope you are up for some hiking! The state parks in WV are BEAUTIFUL. Especially in the fall time. If you haven’t tried a pepperoni roll before you will when you are here! I think what I love most about this state is it’s natural beauty. I am a huge outdoors person and this state has so many outdoor activities like white water rafting, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, etc.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents and my siblings. I would not be where I am today without them. They continue to support me and my career no matter what. My West Virginia Wedding Photographers (you know who you are) this is where I started my business and the community I have built here is unreal. These girls have become some of my best friends in and out of the wedding industry and I am forever grateful for them. My clients. For choosing me to capture such important events of their lives and trusting me to create something beautiful for them. Hope and Anna. My two best friends that I have known since kindergarten. These two are always there to boost me up when I feel down. They are always sharing and supporting my business. I love you all.

Website: https://erikahuezophotoandfilm.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikahuezophotoandfilm/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikahuezophoto

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ofybx87qsJrdHTyhv4lzw