From Humble Beginnings to Soulful Portraits: My Why

I was ten years old when my family and I left Cuba, bringing only the clothes on our backs and a small bag filled with important documents—birth certificates, and a few precious photographs. To this day, those pictures are incredibly precious to me. It was because of my maternal grandmother that I have childhood pictures—she made sure to hire a photographer for every one of my birthdays. Thank you, Grandma. Now I understand why there is a period of my childhood that is undocumented. Once she passed away, I didn’t have my picture taken again until I arrived in the United States.

Among those cherished photographs, I have only a few with my grandmother, a woman who meant the world to me. Losing her was one of the most painful experiences of my life, and today, those photographs are my link to her memory, her love, and her legacy.

When we arrived in the United States, I knew my number one job was to do well in school so I could attend a good college and secure a stable career. After all, that was why my parents left everything behind—to give their children a better future. Excelling in school came naturally to me because I loved learning. I graduated at the top of my class, both in high school and college. Though it took time to learn English, by the time I graduated high school, I was fully prepared for college

I remember wanting to take a photography class in college, but I couldn’t afford a camera or the materials required for the course. Instead, I chose dance as my elective. At the time, I had no idea that photography would one day become my passion and career.

In 2017, 14 years later, with a bachelor's degree, a master’s, two certificates in translation, and two national interpreting certifications under my belt, I had my daughter. This new chapter in my life awakened something within me—a deep desire to pick up a camera again. I still didn’t own one, so I borrowed a camera from my sister-in-law. I wanted to capture my newborn’s milestones in the most artistic and beautiful way possible, so I took my first photography course designed to teach moms how to photograph their children. I was hooked. I wanted to learn more, to improve my skills, and to master the art of photography.

As my passion grew, I quickly outgrew the borrowed camera and began seeking more photography courses. I explored different genres, from kids and family photography to weddings. Then, one day, I discovered Sue Bryce and her educational platform, now known as The Portrait System. From the moment I watched her teachings, I was mesmerized. I resonated deeply with her words and her approach to photography. I felt the power of beautiful portraits, and I knew I had found my calling.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I immersed myself in Sue Bryce’s teachings. They became my lifeline, keeping me sane and focused. As a new mother, photography became my creative outlet. I spent countless hours learning about lighting, posing, and how to run a photography studio. As soon as it was safe to interact with others, I started photographing friends, neighbors, and anyone willing to step in front of my camera. I transformed my dining area into a home studio, determined to build my skills and pursue my newfound passion.

In 2021, I took a leap of faith and opened my first official studio in Florida. Three years later, just as I was gaining momentum, my family and I relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina. Now, I find myself in the first year of my second studio, filled with dreams and eager to meet and photograph the incredible women of this city. My goal is simple but profound: to empower my clients, to help them see themselves in a new light, and for those who own businesses, to help them show up authentically and grow.

One of the greatest highlights of my career has been meeting Sue Bryce in person. In 2022, I attended a workshop with her in Italy. In 2023, I had the honor of attending her final official The Portrait Masters Conference. In 2024, I completed her Personal Branding Course and met her at her beautiful studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. She has been an inspirational mentor, shaping my journey and reinforcing my mission.

Looking back, I see how every step of my journey—leaving Cuba, cherishing old photographs, pursuing education, overcoming financial limitations, rediscovering photography, and learning from the best—has led me to where I am today. Soulful Portraits by Mayeluz is more than a photography business; it is my way of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and helping others preserve their own legacies through powerful, meaningful portraits.

I am excited to continue this journey and capture the stories of the remarkable women I have yet to meet. Your image. Your soul. Your story.