Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Jones
Hi Monica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up just outside of Houston, in a tiny town called El Lago, right by NASA. After high school, I attended St. Edward’s University to study theatre and, like many with a flair for the dramatic and a dream, I moved to Los Angeles after graduation to chase the spotlight. My life revolved around stage, film, and commercial work.
A quick stint in Chicago eventually brought me back home to Texas, where my path shifted completely. I got into real estate, met my amazing husband, and together we moved to North Texas. That’s when my love for photography truly began. One Christmas, my husband gifted me a Canon Rebel, and what started as a tool for real estate photography quickly became a passion for so much more.
Over time, I found myself photographing families, actors, seniors, children, and just about anything that came my way. It took years of trial and error to find my unique style and refine my techniques, To this day, I’m always learning because there’s always room to grow.
Having my own family made photography so much more personal. When my baby girls came along, I saw life in a new way. I found myself drawn to documenting what I know best, beautifully imperfect chaos of family life.
Now, I feel like I have found my niche in capturing family journeys – from heartfelt family portraits to celebrating seniors and cherishing childhood moments. I also have a deep love for branding photography, helping individuals express their personality and bring their brand to life. And of course, I offer corporate headshots and event photography as well, because I truly enjoy connecting with people and telling their unique stories.
For the past 17 years, North Texas has become my home, and I’m so thankful for the amazing families and individuals who trust me to capture their special moments.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has been anything but an idyllic journey. I started off so cocky and sure of myself. Then, the more I learned, the more frightening it got. Even after years in this industry, I still wrestle with imposter syndrome. You know, that little voice that makes you question if you’re good enough. I have to constantly remind myself, ‘Comparison is the thief of joy.’ It’s easy to look at others in this competitive and often seasonal industry and feel like you’re falling short, but the only person I should be comparing myself to is who I was yesterday.
That being said, I’m a firm believer in community over competition. While I try to foster that mindset, I’ll admit I’m still hard on myself for the little things—an imperfect edit, a shot that could have been framed better, or even a slower booking season. It’s all part of the process, though. I’m learning to give myself grace and to focus on growth instead of perfection.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in family photography, capturing life through a personal lens shaped by my own experiences as a parent. My work also celebrates milestones and childhood moments, offering senior and childhood portraits that tell stories of growth and change. I’m passionate about branding photography, helping individuals express their personality and bring their personal brand to life. I also enjoy capturing professional headshots and events, telling the unique stories of my clients.
I am so proud of my photography career, not just for the joy it brings me, but for the happiness it brings to my clients. It’s an honor to provide them with tangible memories that they can be proud of and to show them the beauty in their lives.
What sets me apart is my ability to connect with clients on a personal level. My diverse experiences in various fields have allowed me to blend creativity, empathy, and technical skill in every session. My journey from theatre to photography has taught me the importance of storytelling, and I apply this to capture the essence of each individual and family I work with.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
My view on risk-taking is that it’s an essential ingredient for personal and professional growth. Starting my own photography business was a significant risk, as was investing in expensive equipment and renting studio spaces with no guaranteed clients. Each of these decisions required confidence in myself and my abilities. The rush from taking these risks is incredible, and the satisfaction that comes from a successful outcome, bringing joy to my clients, is beyond compare.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mojosphotos.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mojosphotos.tx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mojosphotos
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mojosphotos
Image Credits
Monica Jones – MoJo’s Photos
