Today we’d like to introduce you to Fernando Balderas.
Hi Fernando, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story started when I was a young teenage kid with dreams of creating videos! I began my journey in film. I transitioned into photography as I entered my junior year of high school. I was just a kid who was a drummer, had a camera, a computer, and way too many ideas. By that time I was already covering events and taking portraits. I’ve always loved creating things, whether through photography, graphic design, or digital media.
As I got older, that hobby slowly turned into a career. I taught myself, made plenty of mistakes, kept learning, and eventually built Xclusive Portraits, where I now work with families, couples, graduates, weddings, and events. Everything really! It has opened lots of doors, and I am so blessed to meet the clients I have.
What started as a kid simply wanting to create has grown into a business and a career I’m genuinely proud of. I’m still learning every day, but I’m grateful that I get to do what I love while helping people preserve memories they can enjoy for years to come.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all! 😂I currently still run my business and work a FT job as a project manager for a signage company. Even while in college, while most went out to party, I was stuck inside editing photos! And I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. It’s definitely been a journey with plenty of ups and downs. One of the biggest challenges was learning how to run a business while also being the photographer, editor, marketer, designer, accountant, customer service department—and sometimes the IT guy when something breaks.
There were slow seasons, unexpected expenses, equipment and computer issues, and plenty of moments where I had to question what I was doing. I am my own biggest critic. But every challenge taught me something and pushed me to improve.
I think those struggles are a big part of why I’m here today. They taught me to stay flexible, keep learning, and never give up just because something doesn’t go according to plan.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a photographer and creative business owner specializing in portraits, families, seniors, maternity, couples, weddings, and event coverage. My goal is to create images that feel polished and professional while still capturing the personality and emotion of the people in front of my camera.
What I’m most proud of is the relationships I’ve built with my clients. I don’t want someone to feel like they’re just another appointment on my calendar. I work closely with each person to help with locations, outfits, posing, ideas, and even finding options that fit their budget.
I think what sets me apart is that I’m very hands-on. Photography for me doesn’t stop when I press the shutter. I’m involved in the editing, printing, design, and overall experience because I want the final product to be something my clients are genuinely proud of.
Most importantly, I want people to have fun. I take the photography seriously, but I don’t think the experience has to feel serious all the time. If I can make someone laugh, feel comfortable, and walk away with photos they’ll love for years, then I’ve done my job.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you don’t have to have everything figured out before you start. When I first started, I was learning as I went, making mistakes, trying again, and figuring out what worked.
I’ve also learned that success isn’t just about being talented—it’s about consistency, treating people well, and continuing to learn when things don’t go your way. There have definitely been moments when I wanted to throw my computer out the window. But every challenge taught me something that helped me grow.
Most importantly, I’ve learned to trust the process. What started as something I enjoyed as a kid has grown into something I’m proud to call my career, and I’m still just getting started.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://xclusiveportraits.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xclusiveportraits.tx
