Today we’d like to introduce you to Stella Collazo.
Stella, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve loved photography for as long as I can remember. Even as a kid, I felt an instinctive pull to photograph the people and world around me—to notice the light, the fleeting moments, and the beauty others might overlook. People often told me I had a unique way of seeing things. I naturally knew how to capture candid moments, put people at ease, and reveal the emotions that make a photograph come alive. Family trips, ordinary days, and time spent with loved ones became my canvas. Photography wasn’t just something I did; it was the way I experienced life.
In my twenties, my love of photography led me into a different world—the nightlife of downtown Chicago. Without any formal training, I was hired to photograph the energy, excitement, and vibrant hues of the city. It was fast-paced and exciting, and it taught me how to tell a story in a a single frame, no matter the environment.
It wasn’t until I moved from Chicago to Tennessee that I picked up a camera again with a renewed sense of purpose. The slower pace, the natural beauty of Tennessee, and a shift in perspective inspired me to create something new. I decided to start my own photography business, focusing on families—documenting connection, love, and authenticity. There’s a certain magic in photographing a family—preserving moments they can return to years later, remembering not just how life looked, but how it felt.
As a family photographer, I have the opportunity to create a meaningful, positive experience for families—one that can leave a lasting impression. I strive to create beautiful images that allow both children and parents to see themselves in a positive light each day. My hope is that this work supports the well-being and happiness of the families I serve.
If I could leave you with one piece of encouragement, it would be this: to the women who’ve been told that their peak is behind them – it’s simply not true. Midlife is rich, powerful, and deeply beautiful. I, like many women in their forties and beyond, have found a creative awakening in this season of life – and I know you can too. It emerges when you remain open, curious, and brave enough to ask yourself a simple question: What makes my heart come alive? With age comes wisdom, and with wisdom comes a deeper trust in your intuition. So if you’re sitting on a vision or a dream and wondering if it’s too late, remember this: you’re not late at all. You’re right on time.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy process?
It hasn’t been an easy journey and I’ve definitely had moments of self-doubt. Since I don’t have formal training in photography—my degrees are actually in teaching—I sometimes catch myself wondering if I got everything right… Did I nail the camera settings? Was my aperture right for this lighting? Should my ISO have been higher? Could I have adjusted something differently for that action shot?
But I’ve come to realize those questions are part of the process. They don’t go away completely—but they’ve taught me to offer myself the reassurance, validation, and permission I once sought from others. That mindset has built a lot of resilience in me, and for that, I’m truly grateful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do and what’s been some of your favorite feedback from clients?
My favorite feedback from clients isn’t just that they love their photos—it’s when they say, “That was actually really fun!” or “You made us feel so comfortable!”
I truly believe the best photos don’t come from stiff posing or pressure to perform. They come from people being themselves and enjoying the moment. I love helping people feel confident in front of the camera—even those who say they’re “awkward” in photos.
Some of my absolute favorite compliments are when parents tell me their kids ask when they’ll get to see me again, or that the session felt like a chance to simply be together. An opportunity to slow down, enjoy their children and their partner, and appreciate the life they’ve worked so hard to build. Instead of feeling like a stressful obligation to be perfect, it becomes a genuinely fun and meaningful experience—one they look forward to doing again. 
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stellamariaphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1SgBpn5ksH/
