Today we’d like to introduce you to Abby Dominguez
Hi Abby, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my photography journey in the most unexpected way. I always had a love for capturing moments, but it wasn’t until I started diving deep into photography that I realized it was my true calling. I threw myself into learning the technical side of things—manual settings, lighting, composition, and editing. The more I practiced, the more I fell in love with the process. I started taking photos of friends, family, and anyone who would let me, and from there, I began to realize that this could actually be more than just a hobby.
Eventually, I turned my passion into a business. I started working with clients, offering my services for everything from corporate events to weddings and lifestyle shoots. I also started creating content for websites, and this gave me a chance to refine my skills even more. As I took on more projects, I began to see the importance of clear and authentic communication with clients. That’s when I realized how much tone and language in emails could truly strengthen relationships, so I honed my style to reflect the professional yet warm vibe I wanted to convey.
One of the most transformative parts of my journey was attending Century College for photography. There, I met professors who completely shifted my mindset. They didn’t just teach me about camera settings—they pushed me to think about photography as a means of storytelling and creativity. Their mentorship helped me grow in ways I didn’t know were possible, teaching me to go beyond the basics and challenge my own perspective.
What’s been even more powerful is how photography has given me the courage to step into a new role and push past my natural shyness. It’s truly been a tool for personal and professional development, helping me grow more confident not just behind the lens, but in every aspect of my life.
Now, I’m running a photography business where I get to capture moments that feel authentic and true to each client. I’m constantly learning, growing, and feeling so grateful for where this journey has taken me. Every step has been a part of my evolution, and I can’t wait to see where it leads next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t been all smooth sailing. In fact, there were plenty of struggles that made me question everything along the way. The biggest one? Overcoming that initial fear of putting myself out there. I mean, I was shy, uncertain about my work, and wondering if anyone would actually want to hire me. There were so many nights I’d stare at my camera, doubting if I had what it took to make it in such a competitive field.
Then there was the challenge of balancing the art with the business. Photography is so much more than just clicking the shutter—it’s about managing clients, handling contracts, dealing with taxes, and, let’s be real, marketing yourself. I had to learn how to juggle it all, and trust me, there were times I felt completely overwhelmed by the “business” side of things.
And, oh, the comparison trap. It’s so easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing in the industry. There were moments I felt like I wasn’t “good enough,” like my work didn’t compare to others. But the truth is, that comparison only slowed me down. I had to get real with myself and remember that my journey was unique—my story was mine to tell, and so was my photography.
I also struggled with finding my voice when it came to communication. I wanted to come across as professional but still relatable, fun, and approachable. Finding that balance wasn’t easy, and there were plenty of trial and error moments before I found the tone that truly felt like me.
And let’s not forget the financial side of things. In the beginning, it was hard to figure out the pricing, managing income, and figuring out how to sustain the business long enough to see real growth. There were days I wasn’t sure if I’d make it. But I kept going, kept pushing through, because I believed in what I was building.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in maternity and newborn sessions, and let me tell you, these moments are so incredibly important. It’s truly an honor to work with women who want to beautifully capture this chapter in their life. Every session I do is completely customized to what the mom-to-be envisions for her special time. I take my time to really listen to each client, getting to know their preferences, style, and what they want to see reflected in their photos. I believe that it’s not just about taking photos—it’s about bringing their vision to life.
To make sure everything aligns with their preferences, we’ve built sets that cater to different styles and ideas, ensuring that each session is a reflection of the mother’s unique taste. Whether it’s soft, natural lighting or a more styled, elegant set, my goal is to create an experience that’s personal, meaningful, and truly special for the family.
I feel deeply proud of the connections I build with my clients, and being able to document such a precious time in their lives is something I’ll always cherish. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy and excitement on a mother’s face when she sees the final images of her journey into motherhood. It’s moments like these that make this work feel so fulfilling.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have so many people who have supported me along the way, and they’ve played a huge role in where I am today.
First, I have to give a huge shout-out to my professors at Century College. They really shaped my mindset and pushed me to be better. They didn’t just teach me the technical side of photography—they encouraged me to think beyond the camera and understand the deeper stories I could capture through my work. Their mentorship gave me the confidence to step into photography as a true profession.
I also have an amazing circle of friends and family who’ve been my cheerleaders from day one. From helping me build sets to supporting me during late nights of editing, they’ve always been there with words of encouragement when I needed them the most. I couldn’t have done it without their unwavering belief in me.
Clients play a huge part in my journey, too. Every mom-to-be and family that trusts me to capture these special moments is someone I consider a partner in my success. Their trust, feedback, and the stories they share with me are what keep me going and help me grow both professionally and personally.
Finally, there are teammates who’ve helped me behind the scenes—especially those who’ve assisted with photo shoots, offered feedback, and even helped with the business side of things. Their input has been invaluable, and I’m grateful for their partnership in making sure the business runs smoothly and that my clients are always taken care of.
Each of these people—whether they’ve been mentors, friends, clients, or teammates—has had an impact on my journey, and I owe so much of my success to their support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.abigaildominguez.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbydominguez.photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbbyDominguezPhotography/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-dominguez-7433a9197/
