Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Hernandez
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am Monica Hernandez, a passionate photographer specializing in maternity, newborn, and family photography, based in the vibrant community of Southpoint, Durham. For the past 9 years I have resided in North Carolina with my husband and 3 young children. Originally from Cuba, I came to this amazing country at the young age of 13, I am fluent in both English and Spanish. After moving from New Jersey, where I spent over two decades, I transitioned from my first career as a NICU nurse—a role I embraced for 12 fulfilling years—into the world of photography, I’ve always found myself at the intersection of care and creativity.
My journey began in the bustling halls of a hospital, where I nurtured newborns with tenderness and medical precision. This experience not only deepened my love for infants but also honed my attention to detail—qualities that now illuminate my work as a photographer. In search of a career that offered flexibility for my growing family, I turned to my lifelong passion for art and my inherent love for babies. The result was Monica Bliss Photography, nestled in the heart of Southpoint, Durham. Here, I blend my medical background with my artistic flair to capture the fleeting, precious moments of maternity and newborn life. Each photograph I take is a celebration of new beginnings, crafted with love and a deep understanding of the tiny subjects I capture.
As my business evolved, I realized the natural progression to include maternity photography. Reflecting on my own experiences, where I felt most beautiful during pregnancy yet underserved by traditional photoshoots, I was inspired to create a style that not only empowers women but also showcases their inherent beauty. My goal is to immortalize pregnancy in its full glory, offering a style that resonates with the grace and strength of motherhood.
I now operate a full-service studio, where I offer not only maternity and newborn sessions but also family photography. My studio is a sanctuary for elegance and glamour, equipped with an extensive wardrobe featuring over 200 designer gowns to ensure every client feels like royalty. My approach is meticulously crafted around expert posing, guiding each woman to highlight her unique beauty and capturing every moment with precision.
My photography style is a blend of fine art and editorial, designed to produce images that are not just photos, but pieces of art ready for magazine features. This commitment to quality ensures that every image I create is something truly special, ready to be cherished and admired.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While I’ve achieved a rewarding level of success with my photography business, the journey hasn’t always been smooth. There were considerable challenges along the way, especially when starting out. My father was a self-taught wedding photographer in Cuba, and though I grew up around cameras, my own knowledge was quite basic when I decided to embark on this path. This meant many sleepless nights spent learning the art and science of photography from scratch.
The saturated market of photography was daunting at first. Establishing a unique brand and style in such a competitive field required not just skill but also a clear vision and immense dedication. I aspired to create a full-service experience where women could come in and entrust me with not just capturing their images but also styling and dressing them to reflect their beauty in the most artistic way possible.
This dream drove me to self-learn and persistently refine my craft, despite the steep learning curve and the initial struggle to differentiate myself. I am grateful for every step of that journey, as it shaped both my skills and my business philosophy. My focus on building genuine relationships has blessed me with a loyal client base that returns time and again, affirming that the hardships along the way were well worth the outcomes.
I’m endlessly thankful for the trust that my clients place in me, allowing me to not just capture, but also celebrate their special moments through my lens. Every relationship forged, every smile captured, is a testament to the love and hard work that defines my studio.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an artist deeply embedded in the world of maternity, newborn, and family photography, my work revolves around capturing the ephemeral beauty and raw emotion of life’s earliest stages. I am commited in creating elegant and glamorous portraits that celebrate motherhood and the innocence of newborns.
I am known for my unique approach to photography, which combines fine art with editorial styling. This distinctive blend ensures that each photo is not just a memory captured but an artistic expression of the moment. My clients appreciate the full-service experience I provide, which includes a carefully curated wardrobe featuring over 200 designer gowns for maternity sessions and young girls. This service ensures that every photoshoot is personalized and transformative, helping clients feel as beautiful as they look.
What sets me apart is my background as a NICU nurse, which endowed me with a profound understanding of and connection to newborns and their families. This experience guides my gentle approach during shoots, especially with newborns and young children, ensuring their comfort and safety while capturing stunning, intimate photos.
I am immensely proud to offer an inclusive service that welcomes women of all origins, races, shapes, and backgrounds. At my studio, we celebrate the unique beauty of every woman, embracing diversity and fostering an environment where all feel honored and beautiful.
I am most proud of how I’ve been able to blend my passion for art with my love for children and families. Building a business that allows me to use my creativity to make others feel seen and beautiful during such a significant time in their lives is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, I am deeply grateful for the relationships I have forged with my clients—many of whom return as their families grow. This loyalty and trust are what I cherish most and are a testament to the quality and care evident in every session.
Overall, my dedication to creating a seamless and luxurious experience, combined with my artistic vision and technical expertise, defines my work. It’s not just about taking photos; it’s about creating art that celebrates life.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Success is rarely a solo journey, and mine is no exception. Throughout my photography career, several key figures have played instrumental roles, each contributing in unique ways to the growth and success of my business.
Firstly, my father, a self-taught wedding photographer in Cuba, has been a foundational influence. His success and passion for photography not only inspired me from a young age but also instilled a deep appreciation for capturing life’s significant moments. Although my initial knowledge of camera operation was basic, reflecting on his achievements motivated me to diligently self-learn the intricacies of photography.
As a former NICU nurse, my colleagues and the families I served were also pivotal. Their encouragement during my transition from nursing to photography reassured me that I was on the right path. The skills and empathy developed during my nursing career have greatly enriched my approach to newborn photography, allowing me to handle each session with care and sensitivity.
My husband and children have been my steadfast cheerleaders. Their support and understanding have been crucial, especially as I navigated the early days of my business and sought a better work-life balance. Their belief in my vision has been a constant source of strength.
Additionally, I am indebted to my clients, who have entrusted me with capturing their most intimate family moments. Their loyalty and the relationships we have built are the backbone of my business. Many have become repeat clients and advocates for my work, helping to grow my client base through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Lastly, the local community in Southpoint, Durham, and the broader artistic community have been incredibly supportive. From fellow photographers to small business owners, the encouragement and opportunities for collaboration have helped me refine my craft and expand my business presence.
Each of these individuals and groups has contributed significantly to my journey, and for that, I am endlessly grateful. They have not just supported a business; they have nurtured an artist’s dream.
Pricing:
- Starting Prices: Our standard photography packages begin at $500, offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored to maternity, newborn, and family photography needs.
- Seasonal Specials: We frequently run special seasonal packages starting at $350, allowing new and existing clients to enjoy premium services at accessible rates.
- Referral Program: We value the power of word-of-mouth and show our appreciation through a referral thank you program, rewarding clients who help grow our community.
- Loyalty Incentives: For our returning clients, we offer a loyalty incentive program to thank them for their continued trust and to make their recurring sessions even more special.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.monicablissphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicablissphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monicablissphotography
