We recently had the chance to connect with Ivonne Elias and have shared our conversation below.
Ivonne , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What battle are you avoiding?
As a photographer, I try to avoid a few battles. I avoid comparing my work to others, because it steals the joy from my own vision. I avoid underpricing myself, even when it feels easier to say yes. I avoid letting burnout take over, even when the long hours tempt me to give in. And I avoid obsessing over gear or perfection, reminding myself that creativity matters more than equipment.
The truth is, avoiding these battles is its own kind of discipline it keeps me grounded in why I started this journey in the first place.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Ivonne — a Los Angeles-based photographer passionate about capturing the magic of life’s biggest moments. Through my lens, I focus on quinceañeras, portraits, and milestone celebrations, creating images that feel both personal and unforgettable. What makes my work special is the heart behind it: I don’t just take photos. I focus on delivering images that preserve my clients most important moments.
Right now, I’m working on expanding my portfolio to highlight the cultural struggles in my community and tell the stories of those communities I serve. For me, photography isn’t just about beautiful images—it’s about preserving legacy, pride, and love in every frame.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
When I reflect on the parts of me that have shaped my journey, I see how each has carried me to where I am today. My creativity has allowed me to express myself and connect deeply with others. My resilience has kept me moving through doubts, setbacks, and challenges that could have stopped me. My empathy lets me see beyond the surface, capturing emotions that truly matter. My discipline has transformed my passion into something sustainable, and my curiosity continues to push me to grow as both an artist and a person.
Even the harder parts the insecurities, the struggles have served a purpose. They’ve humbled me, taught me patience, and reminded me why I choose this path every day. Yet some parts have run their course: the self-doubt that once drove me, the fear of not being original, and the need to please everyone. These no longer serve me. It’s time to release them, making space for growth, creativity, and freedom.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There has been a lot of times I almost gave up. The doubts, the setbacks, the long hours all piled up to the point I questioned whether I was on the right path at all. I have felt exhausted, unsure, and there are times when I think that maybe my passion isn’t enough. But the joy of capturing a moment or a portrait is a constant reminder why I started, Those moments do not break me they remind me that all these feelings are part of the journey.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lies our industry tells itself:
You need expensive gear to make great work.
Social media equals success.
Clients always know what they want.
Saying yes to everything leads to growth.
You must be perfect to be taken seriously.
The truth? Creativity, guidance, boundaries, and courage matter far more than perfection or popularity.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m fully present in the moment, whether behind my camera or simply observing life around me. When I’m capturing a fleeting emotion, shaping a story in editing, or walking quietly through nature, time slows and the noise fades. Peace comes in those small, intentional moments when my mind, my heart, and my work are in harmony, and I can simply breathe, observe, and create without expectation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ivyninetphotography.com
- Instagram: @ivy_ninet
- Facebook: Ivonne Elias
- Youtube: @ivonneelias3373
- Other: Treads – ivy_ninet
Image Credits
Photo credits : Ivy Ninet Photography
