Angelica is the owner and lead photographer of Pompy Portraits, a photobooth and photography business in Jacksonville, FL. What started as a creative way to pay for their wedding quickly turned into a full-fledged, successful biz. In 2019, Angelica left corporate America and pursued Pompy Portraits full-time—four months prior the goal she originally set. A true go-getter, she’s incredibly goal-driven and always strives to enhance her skills. She’s got big dreams—and having worked with her numerous times in the past—our team can confidently say she’ll continue to fulfill her plans and exceed her own expectations, every step of the way. 

The Basics:

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Current city: Jacksonville, FL
Alma mater: University of North Florida
Degree: B.S., Health Administration
Very first job: Working for Cady in high school
Hustle: Owner + Lead Photographer, Pompy Portraits

The Interests:

What’s your favorite way to start (or end) your weekend?
I love to enjoy a little charcuterie board and wine with my husband and friends on Sundays.

Dream concert to attend (past and present musicians)?
Drake (again!) I loved his show. It was great. After seeing him in person, I felt like we became friends (lol)

Favorite place you’ve traveled to and why?
Italy. The culture, food, and wine are all amazing. 

What’s your power outfit?
A blazer, some skinny jeans and heels.

What’s a must-have item in your camera bag?
A camera. Lol, but in all seriousness, my cell phone. I need it for music and in case of an emergency. 

The Hustle:

Tell us about your hustle, providing a summary of your roles and the work you do daily.
As owner and lead photographer at Pompy Portraits, I have about 4-5 shoots a week. I also manage our CRM and schedules for videography, as well as photo booths for events. Additionally, I manage our social media platforms, edit photos, order client products and communicate with clients via email. 

When did your passion for photography begin? At what point did you decide to turn it into a business?
My passion for photography started in high school when I worked as the yearbook historian. During my senior year, I started working at Cady Studios, a portrait photography company here in Jacksonville. My passion grew from there, and I had such a drive to teach myself tools and techniques on how to better my skills. With my first refund check in college, I purchased my very first big girl camera. In July 2016, my husband and I got engaged, and I had the idea of having a photo booth business to help pay for our wedding. Between then and February 2018, I put the camera down to focus all of my energy into the photo booth business and create a brand and name for ourselves in Jacksonville. In 2018, I re-branded my photography business and added the photo booth service to Pompy Portraits. After making that move, I kicked things into high gear by ordering more equipment, getting insured, and investing in education. In 2019, I set a goal to go full-time by 2020 with one year of my expenses saved aside just in case of an emergency. I am super goal-driven, so with that, I met my goal in July 2019. I then set a goal of going completely full-time, and on August 31, 2019, I left corporate America. I couldn't be happier!

What’s one of the best or most worthwhile investments you’ve made in your career?
Finding a mentor, and someone who understands me and my field of work. Learning from someone who has been in my shoes, that can guide me in times of need has been crucial for me.

What sets your photography apart from others in your industry?
My goal for my clients is to become their forever photographer, through every milestone in life. My energy and client experience sets me apart from others. My clients value tangible products to preserve their memories for generations to come, and we provide that for them.

How have your past professional and academic experiences and lessons prepared you for the work you do today? How have they not prepared you?
My 9-5 taught me a lot of skill sets that prepared me to be a business owner, including project management, how to work with others, professional development with emails and communication It also made me realize the value of referrals, and that people are willing to spend money on you if you provide an excellent customer experience. Although my 9-5 was in healthcare, the experiences I had and the people I met along the way have been key players in helping build the boss babe that I am today. I’m forever grateful.

What’s the gender ratio like in your industry? Do you see it evolving? Why or why not?
The photography industry is about 50/50. It used to be a male-dominated industry, but over time, I see it evolving to being primarily women-dominated. Women are collaborating and creating some killer ideas in the photography world that are making them trailblazers.

How has being a woman—and specifically, a WOC—impacted your professional experiences? What can we do to create more supportive and inclusive work environments in your industry?
Being a woman in the photography industry makes me feel empowered. I truly believe in the phrase “community over competition,” because there is enough out there for all of us to be great. However, I only know a handful of Latina photographers, and we aren’t recognized/supported by our peers enough. I love that BWH continues to highlight babes from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethics that are killing it in their industry. 

Do you hav any advice for fellow babes at the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey?
My approach to running and growing my business is through goal-setting, and giving it 110% of my energy. With that said, having days of rest is key. For all of my fellow babes just starting, be intentional with your time, because time is money, but money isn’t everything. Figure out the things that make you happy, and set your goals around those things.

What are some notable experiences you’ve had on the job?
Well, one time I showed up to the wrong venue for an event. Talk about STRESSED. Thank God I allow ample time for set-up! Also, I once called a client by the wrong name during their entire session, only for them to tell me at the end that they didn’t want to correct me because I sounded so confident. On a lighter note, I love when my photography bestie and I do the same mannerisms or say the same thing at the same time when we’re together. Never a dull moment!

Where do you find inspiration when you’re feeling “stuck” creatively?
I try to do one personal creative project each quarter to constantly challenge myself and try new things. I usually get inspiration from social media or Pinterest. 

What’s one thing you’re proud to have accomplished in your career thus far?
I’m proud of the name we have created for ourselves through networking for Pompy Portraits in the Jacksonville community, and for being recognized by others for our growth and success over the last few years.

Who are some women in your field that you look to for inspiration?
Sarah Hedden and Allie Miller are two women I look up to, and people I consider to be my mentors. They’ve always been there to answer my questions and have been supportive cheerleaders in my corner.

Career and/or life advice for other babes?
The sky's the limit. When you’re passionate about something, remember your “why,” and opportunities will fall in your lap. When they do, be strategic with your time and energy.

Connect with Angelica:

Pompy Portraits Instagram / Photo Booth Instagram / Website

This interview has been condensed and edited.

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