Today, we delve into the inspiring and remarkable journey of Monica Dominguez Carlson, a gifted photographer whose evolution has been a powerful story of growth, learning, and perseverance. Monica, an avid follower of the blog and an ongoing source of inspiration, represents the essence of dedication to both the craft of photography and personal growth. Her journey highlights the importance of self-reflection, the pursuit of knowledge, and, most importantly, the unwavering love for photography. Let’s take a closer look at how she arrived at where she is today, and the valuable lessons we can all take from her story.
Monica Dominguez Carlson’s Evolution in Photography: From Snapshot Moments to Fine Art
Monica Dominguez Carlson’s journey into photography is a story of gradual transformation. Unlike many professional photographers, Monica didn’t begin her career with an overwhelming passion for technical mastery or a fascination with the artistic side of the craft. Instead, her initial interest in photography was rooted in the simple desire to capture life's fleeting moments. Before she even owned a proper camera, Monica was using disposable cameras to document her daily life—an instinct to preserve memories rather than create art. Photography, for her, wasn’t about composition or technique but about recording experiences for the sake of nostalgia.
Monica's early foray into photography was much like that of many casual photographers, motivated primarily by a sense of memory-keeping. It wasn’t until after she had children that her relationship with photography began to evolve. In 2005, before becoming a mother, she and her husband purchased a point-and-shoot camera for their honeymoon—a decision that laid the groundwork for her eventual passion for the art. The camera wasn’t a tool for serious photography but rather a means to document experiences with family and friends. At that time, Monica’s understanding of photography was limited, and her approach was focused on recording her life rather than perfecting her technique.
The Frustration That Led to a New Path: Embracing the DSLR
The turning point in Monica’s journey came after the birth of her first child. While capturing photos of her growing family, Monica found herself increasingly frustrated by the blurry and poorly composed images she was getting. Despite owning a point-and-shoot camera, she struggled to capture clear, sharp images of her child—something every parent can relate to. It was in these moments of frustration that Monica realized she needed to take control of her photography. She wanted to create images that were more than just snapshots. She wanted to craft photos that told stories and captured moments with precision and beauty.
In search of better tools and greater control, Monica made the decision to invest in a DSLR camera. After speaking with a professional photographer friend, she purchased the Canon EOS Xsi and decided to dive into the world of manual settings. Along with the camera, she also picked up a copy of Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson, a book that would change her approach to photography forever. At the time, Monica didn’t fully comprehend the concept of shooting in manual mode, but she was eager to learn. Her curiosity and determination to improve her skills drove her to embark on a deeper journey into the technical and creative aspects of photography.
Overcoming the Initial Hurdles: Embracing Manual Mode
The transition to manual photography wasn’t immediate, and it took Monica about two years to fully embrace shooting in manual mode. It was a slow process that required consistent practice and a willingness to experiment. Initially, she felt overwhelmed by the complexities of manual settings, but with each image she captured, she gained a deeper understanding of how light, aperture, and shutter speed worked together to shape her photographs. The more she practiced, the more she discovered the power of creative control. No longer confined by the limitations of automatic modes, Monica started to experiment with different compositions, lighting setups, and exposure settings, which gave her a newfound sense of artistic freedom.
This period of self-learning marked a significant shift in Monica’s approach to photography. What started as a frustrating hobby turned into a passionate pursuit of knowledge. With each photo, Monica grew not just in skill but in confidence. By 2013, Monica’s photography began to take on a more polished, professional feel. She began paying closer attention to the nuances of light, composition, and storytelling. Editing became an essential part of her creative process, and she started using Photoshop Elements to refine her images further. Through this journey of trial and error, Monica realized that photography was no longer just a casual hobby—it had evolved into a meaningful form of artistic expression.
The Moment of Clarity: Defining Her Style
Monica’s journey took another major turn in 2015 when she enrolled in the Turning Lifestyle into Art class by Kate T. Parker. This class was a pivotal moment in Monica’s growth as a photographer, as it helped her define her personal style and vision. Before this, Monica had been exploring different techniques and styles without a clear understanding of what kind of photographer she truly wanted to be. The class helped her gain clarity, and she realized that she wanted to focus on documenting the authentic moments of her family’s life, capturing the joy and wonder of everyday experiences.
It was also during this period that Monica took another significant step in her development: she sought mentorship from photographer Melissa Gibson. These mentorship sessions were transformative, providing Monica not only with technical tips but also with the confidence to see her work in a new light. Melissa’s encouragement helped Monica realize her potential as a photographer and instilled a sense of self-assurance that would prove crucial as she moved forward in her career.
Overcoming Common Hurdles: Time, Family, and Consistency
As Monica continued her photographic journey, she encountered one of the most significant challenges faced by many aspiring photographers—time. Balancing the responsibilities of being a stay-at-home mom with the demands of photography was no easy task. Monica had three young children to care for, and her time for learning, shooting, and editing was limited. While shooting was often easy because she could involve her children in her creative process, finding time to sit down and edit her images was much more difficult.
Monica’s ability to work within these constraints is a testament to her perseverance and dedication to her craft. She learned to make the most of the few quiet hours when her children were at school or napping. During those precious moments, Monica would read photography books, practice editing, and refine her skills. While it was a constant challenge to find time for herself amidst the whirlwind of motherhood, Monica’s commitment to learning and growing in photography never wavered.
From Hobbyist to Professional: Starting Her Business
By the fall of 2016, Monica felt that she had reached a point in her photography where she was ready to turn her passion into a business. With her youngest child now in school part-time, she began to take the necessary steps to establish herself as a professional photographer. This marked another milestone in her journey—one that would bring her both personal fulfillment and professional success.
Monica’s first experience with a photography conference, Click Away, was pivotal in this transition. Attending the conference was an opportunity for Monica to invest in herself as a photographer and gain valuable insights from other professionals. It was also a rare opportunity to take time for herself, away from her children, and to immerse herself fully in the world of photography. After the conference, Monica’s confidence soared, and she took the bold step of applying to Click Pro, a professional photographer network. When she was accepted, it felt like a major achievement in her journey, solidifying her place in the professional photography world.
Balancing Family Life and Photography: Monica's Struggle to Find Time
For many photographers, especially those juggling multiple responsibilities, one of the biggest hurdles is carving out uninterrupted time to dedicate to the craft. This was especially true for Monica Dominguez Carlson, a mother of three young children. As a stay-at-home mom, her daily life was often a whirlwind of parenting tasks, household duties, and the constant demand for attention from her kids. Balancing these responsibilities while trying to nurture a passion for photography proved to be a significant challenge.
Monica’s passion for photography was ignited by her desire to document her children’s lives, but finding time to not only shoot but also learn and edit became an ongoing struggle. While shooting pictures of her family came naturally, sitting down to engage in the more technical aspects of photography—reading articles, books, and editing images—required a level of focus and concentration that was hard to come by with young children in the house. This difficulty was particularly felt when it came to editing photos, as the process is time-consuming and often requires hours of undivided attention.
Monica’s youngest child was particularly demanding, always requiring her attention and making it nearly impossible for Monica to sit at a desk for extended periods. The time she could allocate to editing was typically limited to nap times, school hours, or the rare quiet moments when her children were occupied. As many parents know, these windows of time are short and precious. However, Monica’s deep commitment to both motherhood and her photography journey pushed her to make the most of every available moment.
Despite the hurdles, Monica never lost sight of her goal to grow as a photographer. She realized that photography was more than just a hobby; it was a passion that fueled her creativity and served as an outlet for personal fulfillment. Even if her progress was slower than she would have liked, she knew that consistency and determination would lead her toward her goals. As a result, she adapted her routine and focused on maximizing the small blocks of time that were available to her.
Monica’s approach involved learning in bursts—taking small, manageable chunks of information at a time. Whether it was reading a chapter of a photography book during a break or watching a tutorial while cooking dinner, Monica made sure to keep her learning active, even when she couldn’t fully dedicate long hours. This strategy helped her continuously improve without feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood.
A Turning Point in Monica’s Creative Development
In 2015, Monica’s growth as a photographer took a significant leap forward when she enrolled in the Turning Lifestyle into Art class by renowned photographer Kate T. Parker. This class provided Monica with a transformative experience that helped her refine her approach to photography. Before the course, Monica was still grappling with defining her photography style and understanding how to elevate her work from simple snapshots to a cohesive and artistic narrative.
The course challenged Monica to think beyond technical settings and instead focus on creating compelling, story-driven images. It gave her the tools to see photography not just as a technical skill but as a visual language—a medium through which she could express the beauty and complexity of everyday life. The course deepened Monica’s appreciation for light, composition, and emotion, and it ignited a new passion within her.
In addition to the class, Monica’s mentorship with Melissa Gibson in 2015 played an equally significant role in shaping her creative journey. Mentorship is a powerful tool for any photographer, and Monica’s experience with Melissa allowed her to receive one-on-one feedback from a seasoned professional. As much as technical skills were important, Monica gained invaluable insights into the nuances of photography that could only be shared by someone who had walked the same path.
Melissa's mentorship also focused on building Monica's confidence as a photographer. While family and friends often offered encouragement, it was the validation from a respected professional that helped Monica realize her potential. This experience reaffirmed Monica’s belief that she wasn’t just another hobbyist; she was an artist capable of creating meaningful, impactful work. The mentorship was pivotal in helping Monica shift her mindset from merely taking pictures to creating art that told personal and authentic stories.
The Importance of Self-Confidence in Photography
One of the key takeaways from Monica’s experience was the value of self-confidence. Photography, as an art form, is often subjective, and many photographers struggle with doubts about their abilities. For Monica, the support from her mentorship program and the insights gained from the Turning Lifestyle into Art course allowed her to silence the inner critic that had sometimes held her back. By pushing through moments of uncertainty, she began to recognize the unique perspective she brought to her work.
Building confidence as a photographer isn’t always about perfecting technique; sometimes, it’s about embracing one’s creative voice. For Monica, this realization was liberating. She stopped comparing herself to other photographers and began to focus on what made her work stand out—her ability to capture the raw, honest moments of her children’s lives. This shift in perspective allowed her to trust her instincts and embrace her own artistic vision, resulting in a body of work that felt genuine and personal.
Through these experiences, Monica learned that photography is as much about finding your own voice as it is about mastering technical skills. She discovered that every photographer has their own unique story to tell, and that the key to successful photography is learning to see the world through your own lens. Monica’s journey demonstrates that confidence isn’t something that comes overnight but is instead built over time through learning, experience, and perseverance.
Juggling the Demands of Family and Photography
For many photographers, the struggle to balance family life with their creative passion is a familiar challenge. It’s easy to see how professional photographers—especially those with children—can feel torn between their family obligations and their desire to improve their craft. Monica's experience highlights how important it is to find creative solutions and prioritize effectively. While she had limited time for shooting and editing, she adapted by involving her children in the process whenever possible. By photographing her kids in everyday situations, she was able to practice her skills while still engaging with her family.
Monica’s journey is a reminder that photography doesn’t have to be confined to set hours or locations. The beauty of this art form lies in its ability to capture moments as they happen, often in the most unexpected places. Monica’s ability to balance her passion for photography with the demands of motherhood shows that with patience, creativity, and dedication, it is possible to achieve personal and professional growth—no matter how many responsibilities you have.
Finding Balance Through Time Management
Monica’s ability to balance her love for photography with her family life is a testament to her time-management skills. She recognized that her role as a mother didn’t diminish her ability to be a creative professional; it just required a different approach to time allocation. By utilizing small moments of downtime during her children’s naps or school hours, she maximized the time she had available to improve her skills.
Learning how to manage time effectively is crucial for anyone pursuing a creative career while balancing other responsibilities. Monica’s story offers valuable lessons on how to find moments of inspiration, even in the busiest of days. Whether it's through a 10-minute break to read a photography book or spending a quiet afternoon editing, every bit of time dedicated to learning brings growth. It is this commitment to using whatever time is available that helped Monica continue improving and honing her craft, despite the many challenges of motherhood.
The Advice That Revolutionized Monica's Photography
One pivotal moment in Monica Dominguez Carlson's photography journey came from a simple yet transformative piece of advice: "Get back!" This simple phrase, offered by a mentor or fellow photographer early in her career, had an outsized impact on her approach to composition. At the time, Monica often found herself too focused on her subjects, cropping tightly and unintentionally cutting off limbs or creating awkward compositions that didn’t do justice to the beauty she intended to capture.
The concept of "getting back" was not just about stepping away physically but also about adjusting her mindset. By zooming out and leaving more space around her subjects, Monica learned to create more balanced, harmonious images that had room to breathe. This allowed her to tell a fuller story through her photographs—capturing not only the subject but also the context in which they existed. It brought a new depth to her photography, giving her images a more professional and polished look.
This piece of advice unlocked a greater understanding of the importance of composition in photography. It helped Monica realize that good framing isn’t just about focusing on the subject but also considering the surrounding elements that contribute to the narrative of the photo. As a result, she began paying more attention to the environment, lighting, and how the elements within the frame interacted with her subjects. This shift led to more dynamic images that felt less staged and more natural. The photographs became windows into real moments, reflecting not just the people but the world around them.
By stepping back, Monica was able to elevate the impact of her images, which ultimately transformed her approach to photography. Her work became more intentional and thoughtful, showcasing not just the people she was photographing but the emotions, surroundings, and stories tied to each frame. Over time, the "get back" mantra became a foundation for her creative practice, reminding her to allow space and context to enrich her photographs.
Monica’s Distinct Photography Style
Monica's photography style is often described as playful, authentic, and whimsical—qualities that are evident in every image she creates. Her ability to capture her children’s personalities in the most genuine, unfiltered moments has made her work resonate with others. Unlike many staged or posed portraits, Monica's photos evoke a sense of natural curiosity and innocence, often revealing the raw wonder of childhood. Whether her kids are laughing, exploring, or simply immersed in the everyday wonders of life, Monica's photographs capture those fleeting moments of discovery that define childhood.
Her work transcends mere documentation; it becomes a reflection of how life feels—unpredictable, joyful, and constantly unfolding. Each image reflects her passion for showing the unspoken magic that exists in the mundane, such as the sparkle in a child’s eyes when they’re caught in a moment of play or the quiet wonder of a child lost in thought. Monica’s photographic approach focuses on capturing these spontaneous, genuine emotions and expressions, which make her work so uniquely heartfelt.
Monica’s style has evolved through the years, but one constant has been her emphasis on authenticity. Whether photographing her children or working with clients, she strives to preserve the essence of the moment. She believes in the power of simplicity and aims to bring out the most meaningful aspects of her subjects, whether that’s through light, composition, or their natural environment. There’s a soft, almost nostalgic quality to Monica’s images that transports the viewer back to simpler times, making her photography not only a tool for documentation but also a form of storytelling that resonates deeply with her audience.
This natural style has become Monica's signature, and it's what sets her apart from many other photographers. Her ability to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia through her photographs has made her work beloved by many. It’s a delicate balance—capturing both the playfulness of her subjects and the depth of their emotions—making each photograph a small, timeless treasure.
The Equipment Monica Relies On
Having the right tools to execute her vision is key to Monica’s success as a photographer. Monica shoots with a Canon 6D, a full-frame camera known for its excellent performance in low light and its ability to deliver high-quality, sharp images. For Monica, this camera is a versatile and reliable tool that meets her needs as a creative professional, whether she's shooting portraits or environmental scenes.
One of Monica's favorite lenses is the Sigma Art 35mm, which she praises for its ability to produce stunning images with minimal distortion. This lens is perfect for capturing both intimate, close-up portraits and wider environmental shots. It has become an indispensable tool in Monica's kit, allowing her to create depth and focus while keeping the scene visually appealing. The 35mm lens also offers great versatility, making it ideal for capturing moments of natural interaction between her children or other subjects.
In addition to the Sigma Art 35mm, Monica also owns the Sigma Art 24mm, a wide-angle lens that allows her to capture sweeping, expansive shots. This lens is perfect for showcasing larger environments and wide-open spaces while still maintaining high levels of detail. When working in crowded or busy settings, such as outdoor events or family gatherings, the 24mm lens allows Monica to encompass more of the scene, giving a broader perspective of the moment.
More recently, Monica has added the Canon 100mm f/2.0 lens to her gear collection, a lens particularly suited for capturing action shots. This lens is great for photographing her kids during sporting events, where fast movement and quick reflexes are crucial for getting the perfect shot. While she hasn’t yet fully incorporated the 100mm lens into her everyday workflow, she’s excited about the possibilities it presents for shooting with more detail and precision, especially when focusing on subjects at a distance.
While these are the core lenses in Monica’s kit, her approach to photography has never been about the gear alone. Monica firmly believes that the most important aspect of photography is not the equipment you use but the way you approach the world around you. The lens is just one tool in capturing what she sees and feels through her creative vision. With these tools, Monica has developed a workflow that balances technical expertise with an intuitive approach to photography, allowing her to deliver images that are both emotionally compelling and visually striking.
Monica's Creative Process: A Constant Search for Inspiration
Monica’s creativity is always fueled by the world around her. Whether she's at home with her kids, out in nature, or traveling to new places, Monica is constantly looking for ways to translate her surroundings into art. Photography is, to her, a way of expressing how she sees the world, and she doesn’t limit herself to specific subjects or styles. Inspiration is everywhere—from the smallest details in her children’s faces to the light and shadows found in everyday life. Monica’s camera is always within arm's reach, ready to capture whatever sparks her imagination.
One of the most profound sources of inspiration for Monica is the everyday moments she shares with her children. Observing their wonder as they interact with the world around them allows Monica to preserve the innocence and joy that is often fleeting in childhood. She has an innate ability to translate those moments into powerful images that feel both timeless and contemporary.
Beyond her immediate family, Monica finds inspiration in the work of other photographers, art exhibitions, and nature. She enjoys exploring different photography techniques to expand her creative boundaries. From experimenting with multiple exposures to panning shots, Monica is always searching for new ways to push her photography to the next level. She believes that photography, like any art form, should never be stagnant but should constantly evolve and adapt.
Monica’s commitment to staying inspired and continuing to push her creative limits is evident in the variety and depth of her work. It’s this constant pursuit of innovation and improvement that has allowed her to build a career that reflects not only her technical prowess but her unwavering passion for the art of photography.
Staying Inspired and Maintaining Creativity
Monica’s creative process is all about constant exploration. She believes that inspiration can be found anywhere, and she always keeps her camera with her to capture the unexpected moments that present themselves. A perfect example of this is when Monica took her kids ice skating at a crowded rink. Rather than retreating from the chaos, she used the crowd to add depth and context to her images, experimenting with different angles and compositions.
Monica also enjoys challenging herself with new techniques, such as multiple exposure or panning, to keep her photography fresh and exciting. She feels that stepping outside her comfort zone and trying new things is key to staying creatively engaged.
Essential Advice for New Photographers
Monica’s most valuable advice for aspiring photographers is to avoid comparing yourself to others. In the digital age, it's easy to feel insecure when looking at the polished, high-end work of more experienced photographers. However, Monica emphasizes that photography is a personal journey, and comparing your work to others only slows down your progress. Instead, focus on your own growth, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate the small victories along the way.
Final Reflections on the Photography Journey
Monica’s story serves as a powerful reminder that growth is a gradual process that requires patience, practice, and a willingness to learn. Her journey reflects the importance of perseverance, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities like motherhood. By embracing photography as both a craft and a passion, Monica has achieved personal and professional milestones that were once only dreams.
Monica’s success is not just a result of her technical skill but of her dedication to learning and improving every single day. Her story proves that with time, effort, and a love for the art, you can overcome challenges and achieve your creative goals, no matter where you start.
The Power of Passion and Persistence in Photography
Monica Dominguez Carlson's journey from a casual snapshot taker to a professional photographer is a testament to the importance of continuous learning and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passion. Whether through mentorship, online courses, or self-exploration, Monica has used every opportunity to grow as an artist and a photographer. Her story encourages us all to embrace the journey, keep pushing our boundaries, and never give up on the creative process.
By following Monica’s approach—focusing on growth, staying curious, and embracing new challenges—you too can elevate your photography skills to new heights. The journey may take time, but the reward is always worth it.
Final Thoughts:
Monica Dominguez Carlson’s photography journey is not just an inspiring narrative of growth; it’s a profound reminder that success in any creative field doesn’t happen overnight. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence, patience, and an open mind. What stands out most in Monica’s evolution is her ability to balance the demands of motherhood while pursuing her passion for photography. With three children and the constant hustle of daily life, carving out time for personal growth and creative exploration was no small feat. Yet, she found ways to dedicate herself to the craft, learning from both her successes and setbacks.
Her willingness to embrace every phase of her journey, from being a casual snapshot taker to a DSLR enthusiast and finally a seasoned professional, speaks volumes about the importance of enjoying the process. Many new photographers get caught up in the pursuit of perfection or rush to attain a professional level, but Monica’s story reminds us that growth takes time. It’s not just about capturing the perfect shot, but about understanding the art, experimenting with new techniques, and, most importantly, appreciating how far you’ve come along the way.
Monica’s ability to keep evolving is something we can all take inspiration from. Whether it's seeking mentorship, attending workshops, or simply experimenting with new techniques, she continuously pushes herself to expand her creative boundaries. The fact that she still looks back at past work and remains open to revisiting lessons learned is a beautiful reminder that even the most experienced photographers are always learning.
Her advice to budding photographers to “not compare yourself to others” is invaluable. In an age where social media can easily lead to self-doubt, Monica’s experience reminds us that our unique path—our own personal journey—is what defines us. It's not about replicating someone else’s style, but about finding our own voice through the lens.
Lastly, Monica’s work embodies a timeless truth: photography is not just about technical expertise, but about capturing stories, emotions, and memories. The passion she pours into her family portraits, her attention to composition, and her pursuit of new techniques all contribute to the wonder that is her photography style. By following her example, we are reminded that true artistry is born from both dedication and the joy of the process.
Monica’s journey serves as a beautiful illustration that growth is not a race, but a continuous exploration. Whether you’re just beginning or have been shooting for years, take heart in knowing that every step—every photo, every mistake, and every breakthrough—is part of your unique creative evolution. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy the art of capturing the world through your own eyes.
