People often ask, “How do you do it all?” And truthfully, there are days when I ask myself the same question. Teaching kindergarten full-time, running a professional photography studio, and teaching adult photography classes in the evenings and on weekends… it’s a lot. But it’s also incredibly fulfilling—and beautifully intertwined.
A Day in the Life: From Crayons to Cameras
My mornings begin in a brightly colored kindergarten classroom. While the rest of the world is still sipping coffee, I’m tying shoes and teaching little ones how to read and write. Teaching kindergarten is not just a job—it’s a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and boundless energy. It also keeps me grounded. Kids see the world in such a pure and imaginative way, and that perspective constantly reminds me to slow down and notice the little things—something every great photographer should do.
By late-afternoon, when the classroom quiets and my teacher hat comes off, the second part of my day begins. I trade the lesson plans for memory cards, camera bags, and client prep. Studio R Photography comes to life in the evenings and weekends, whether I’m hosting a mini session, editing portraits, or brainstorming the next themed shoot. The shift from school to studio is hectic, but it gives me creative balance. One side of my world fuels the other.
Teaching Photography: The Joy of Adult Learning
I also teach photography classes for adults—many of whom are picking up a camera for the first time in years or are looking to finally understand all those mysterious buttons on their DSLR. I love watching the spark of understanding when a student finally “gets” aperture or captures that perfect shot using natural light. Sharing my passion for photography with others reminds me why I fell in love with this art in the first place.
These classes are more than just lessons—they’re a way to connect with people from all walks of life who, like me, are juggling busy schedules but still carve out time for creativity. Some are parents, some are retirees, and some are business owners. We’re all learning together, and that energy is contagious.
The Balancing Act: Chaos, Coffee, and Calendar Blocks
Balancing all of this doesn’t come easy. My calendar is color-coded and often looks like a game of Tetris. There are nights when I’m up late editing a gallery after lesson planning. There are weekends where I bounce from a morning photo session to an afternoon birthday party and then back home to prepare for Monday’s circle time.
But I’ve learned to embrace the chaos. I’ve learned when to say “yes,” and more importantly, when to say “not right now.” I’ve learned that balance doesn’t mean equal time for everything—it means giving each thing the attention it deserves in the moment.
Why I Keep Going
What keeps me going is the impact. Whether it’s seeing a five-year-old light up when they read a word for the first time, or hearing a photography student excitedly tell me about a shot they nailed on their own, or watching a client cry happy tears when they see their family portraits—I know I’m making a difference.
Photography is about preserving moments. Teaching is about shaping them. And in my life, those two passions are beautifully connected.
If you're juggling multiple roles or dreaming of pursuing a passion project while working full-time, just know—it’s possible. It won’t be perfect. It might be messy. But it will be worth it.
📸❤️🌻
