Hi I'm , your Northern Maryland photographer
Lia
So nice to have you here!
I am originally from the beautiful country of Panama, where the spirit of its people is friendly, and fun, and where laughter is never in short supply.
I was blessed to grow up in a BIG, loving family that taught me to appreciate life and live every moment to the fullest possible. As one of four close-in-age children in my own household (I have two older brothers and a younger sister), our home was never calm or quiet. Extended family, school friends, neighbors, pets – it seemed like everyone converged on our house for a daily routine of music, dancing, singing, eating, and that ever-present laughter and love. When I think of my own best moments in life, these are the things that come to mind - all of these mean “family” to me. Even now after so many years in the US, I still carry this outgoing Panamanian spirit with me, whether I am with old friends or new.
One other thing that there was no shortage of in our household: photographs. Photographs mean “family”. That my clients trust me enough to take their photos is a tremendous honor and one that I don’t take lightly or for granted. Because maybe for you, photographs mean “family” as well.
I see myself as an energetic, happy, and approachable person who enjoys the simple moments in life. I enjoy being comfortable and relaxed with others, and as a photographer I recognize that the best images (and the most natural expressions) occur when people are comfortable and relaxed. As such, my goal is to create a joyful environment which will bring out your true personality. Please don’t be surprised if that Panamanian spirit overtakes me and I greet you with a hug…
Gathering everyone in an environment that is friendly, and fun, and where laughter is never in short supply - that's where it all begins.
LET’S GET THIS JOURNEY STARTED!
get to know me better...
A FEW FUN FACTS ABOUT ME
01
I have always enjoyed working with children. Even as a little girl, whenever anyone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I told them that I wanted to be a pre-school teacher. I have a degree in Early Childhood Education and have held nationally accredited professional child educator certifications, as well. I professionally cared for and taught infants, toddlers, and children up to 2-years old for over 10 years collectively. So, it should come as no surprise to anyone that I especially love working with children in my photography!
02
Although I don’t have children of my own, I have been blessed with the most wonderful kids in my life. Amongst them, I have five treasured nieces and nephews whom I love to spoil, and who even today still refer to me with their early childhood names of “Llalla” (pronounced “ya-ya”), “Gigi”, or “Lilly”. Additionally, I was very fortunate to become a nanny for a very special family when I first came to the US, eventually helping to raise three incredible children; although they have all grown up now, I am so fortunate to be considered an honorary family member.
03
When I finally decided that I wanted to become a photographer, I began attending photography classes at my local college. Attending my first student art exhibition, I was warmly greeted by friends and co-students and congratulated upon my arrival. A ribbon was hanging next to my submission – I had won the exhibition’s coveted President’s Award in my very first semester! I had no idea they even had awards! With all the talented work on display, it is still to this day a tremendous honor and cherished memory.
04
I used to be a highly competitive bowler and am listed in the high game registry in the US Bowling Hall of Fame. At my most competitive, I was bowling in four different leagues during the week and bowling in a travel league in tournaments on weekends. I once bowled a 299 game, but unfortunately, I was never able to achieve that coveted perfect 300 game. I was able to shoot an 813 series, though (my Hall of Fame series)!
SOME OF MY
favorite things are...
01
Panamanian food! Tamales, ceviche, arroz con pollo, empanadas, patacones…. oh my goodness, I’m hungry just writing that! Besides my family, Panamanian food is easily one of the things I miss the most.
02
I am a sweets lover! Chocolate for breakfast? Why not! If it was up to me, candy, chocolates, and ice cream would be my daily meals!
03
Puzzles! I absolutely love jigsaw puzzles; the old fashion box puzzle when on vacation, or on my iPad.
