Today we’d like to introduce you to Chontira (Feliz) Martin.
Hi Chontira (Feliz), thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always loved taking photos, but I never imagined photography would grow into such a meaningful part of my life. After having my son, something shifted—I wanted to capture every little moment, and that simple wish sparked a deeper passion within me.
Around that time, my close friend Teak from Grace Lens Photography moved to Colorado. She had always been our go-to photographer, there for every event and every milestone. Her move inspired me to step into my own creativity and explore photography more seriously.
I had a professional camera that my husband gifted me as a wedding present, but it sat untouched for years—until one day, I finally picked it up and started learning. Not long after, my sweet sister-in-law, Tara, asked me to photograph her family. She was the first person who believed in me and encouraged me to take photography to the next step. That support from family meant the world.
I later took a class recommended by Fabiana Santos, which helped me refine my style and gave me the confidence I needed to begin working with clients professionally. Looking back, every moment, every encouragement, and every practice session brought me right here—doing something I truly love.
From the very beginning, my husband has been my biggest cheerleader, supporting me every step of the way. With encouragement from friends, guidance from mentors, and countless hours of practice, what began as a small hobby gradually became something far more meaningful. Eventually, we took the leap and officially launched our photography company.
Today, photography is more than just a job—it’s pure joy. It allows me to connect with families, preserve meaningful moments, and create images that will be treasured for years to come. Capturing life’s authentic, emotional moments is what truly lights me up.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth journey. I faced a lot of learning curves, especially starting photography from zero while working full-time and caring for a baby. Time was limited, but I used every spare moment to learn. I took classes and completed a certification through the New York Institute of Photography to build a solid foundation. Balancing work, motherhood, and studying was difficult, but I kept going. I reminded myself that every bit of practice mattered, the more I did it, the more I grew, and I truly learned something new every day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a family and lifestyle photographer specializing in warm, natural, and emotional imagery. While families, children, and maternity sessions are at the heart of what I do, senior portraits have become one of my favorite and most meaningful parts of my work. I also photograph couples, elopements, portraits, and small events.
I love capturing every season of life, and I strive to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience so my clients feel comfortable, genuine, and fully themselves in front of the camera.
What sets my work apart is my patient, gentle approach and my ability to connect with people. I’m proud that my photography helps families and couples preserve meaningful moments they’ll treasure for years to come.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happiest is being with my family and friends. Spending time with the people I love keeps me grounded and brings me so much joy. I also love traveling, exploring new places, new cultures, and trying new foods always inspires me. One of the best parts is that my husband also loves photography, so I get to enjoy taking photos with him while we travel. I bring my camera everywhere I go, capturing moments of family, beautiful landscapes, little joys like new foods, and even the delicious meals we discover along the way. Photographing food, alongside people and places, adds another layer of creativity and fun to my work. These experiences, combined with the ability to preserve them through photography, truly make me happy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Felizcphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felizcphotography?igsh=Ym9uZmkwbjJsZ2sx&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19RBjZzGvk/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Professional Headshot photo by
Lauren “Lolly” Thomson, Lollypop Lenses.
