Reclaiming Joy, Creativity, and Control

Welcome Back

Hey there! I’m Christina, the one behind the camera at Beautifully You, and I just want to say… it feels so good to be back. If you’ve been following my journey, you know photography has always had my heart. And if you’re new here, welcome! I’m so glad you landed in my little creative corner of the internet. Whether you're here to book a session, browse through my photos, or simply get to know me better, I’m excited to have you along for this next chapter.

How It Started

I’ve loved photography since I was a kid. My family used to buy me those big multi-packs of disposable cameras because I’d go through them so fast. I wanted to capture everything. And every weekend, my family would take me to the print shop to have my photos developed. I didn’t know it at the time, but those afternoons together shaped so much of who I am now.

In 2018, I got my first real camera and decided to take things to the next level. I didn’t go to school for photography. I didn’t have a mentor or a big plan. I just…started. I’m pretty sure I had my first booked session that day I bought my camera! I taught myself by watching, learning, experimenting, and trusting my eye. And honestly? That’s what makes my work feel so personal. I shoot with intention and heart, not just by the book, and quite often I can be found breaking “traditional” photography rules. But that can stay just between us..lol

How It’s Going

Over the past few months, I made the intentional decision to step away from photography to focus my energy on the current political movement. To be present, to speak up, and to stand for what I believe in, and to stand for those who cannot stand for themselves. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was necessary. I poured myself into advocacy, community, and holding space for the things that matter, and I have found a tribe that I hold dear. They keep me grounded through these scary times as we fight fascism on the front lines. And while that work continues, I’ve also come to realize how important it is to let joy back in. Photography has always been one of the purest forms of joy for me. It grounds me, it inspires me, and it connects me to others in a way nothing else does. So now, I’m choosing to come back to create, to celebrate, and to bring a little light back into the world through my lens.

New Ventures

Another significant aspect of this journey has been breaking free from the constraints of the corporate system. I spent years trying to fit into spaces that weren’t made for me, showing up, working hard, and playing by the rules in environments that didn’t value my creativity, boundaries, or voice. Eventually, I realized I was shrinking myself just to survive in systems that were never built to let me thrive.

So in January…I left. I chose freedom. I stopped asking for a seat at the table and started creating my own. One rooted in helping others build lives and systems that actually support them, helping my community get connected to resources that they need, and helping to support deep climate initiatives, just to name a few of the projects I have been able to be a part of! It’s been a powerful shift. I’ve been able to pour my skills into something that uplifts others while giving me space to heal, grow, and lead in ways that feel aligned. Starting something from scratch reminded me who the hell I am. It taught me that I don’t have to choose between being creative and being in control. I can be both. And now, as I return to photography, I’m bringing all of that energy with me, clarity, confidence, and the kind of joy that only comes from doing things on YOUR terms.

I specialize in capturing genuine, bold moments that reflect exactly who you are, whether that’s a glowing portrait, a candid laugh, a once-in-a-lifetime moment, or a dope car that needs its moment in the spotlight. Every session is different, and that’s what I love about it. My goal is always to help you feel confident, comfortable, and seen.

What You’ll Find Here

This blog is a space where I’ll share more than just pictures. I’ll be posting:

Behind-the-scenes from my shoots
Tips to help you prep for your session
Personal stories from my photography journey
Things I’ve learned along the way
And probably some real talk too, because why not

I want this to feel like a place where you can come for inspiration, connection, and maybe even a little motivation if you’re chasing a dream of your own.

So Let’s Make Some Magic!

Thanks for being here and for riding with me as I jump back in. Whether you’ve been rocking with me since 2018 or you’re just discovering my work now, I appreciate you so much. I’m excited to share more, shoot more, and keep growing in this beautiful little world I get to create through my lens.

So yeah, babes… I’m back, I’m booked, and I’m ready. Let’s make something unforgettable together.