Meet Heather Moreau | Lead Photographer & Professional Chaos Coordinator at Vallentyne Photography

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Moreau and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
How to Know Whether to Keep Going or Give Up: 20 Years in Business, Here’s What I’ve Learned

Running a business isn’t for the faint of heart. Some days, it fills you with purpose—you get to create something meaningful, build connections, and see the joy on people’s faces when they hold something truly special in their hands. Other days, you wonder if you should trade it all in for a job with steady hours and a guaranteed paycheck (or at least one that doesn’t involve emails asking if you can Photoshop out an ex-boyfriend and make everyone look ten years younger).

I’ve been a full-time photographer for 20 years—no side gigs, no backup plan, just a deep love for what I do and a determination to make it work. And I won’t lie, it hasn’t always been easy. Photography is a competitive industry, and when your business is built on providing a service, there are only so many hours in the day. Add in raising a family, and suddenly, those hours shrink even more. There have been moments of doubt—wondering if my work was good enough, if I could keep growing, if people would still see the value in what I create.

But here’s what I’ve learned: I keep going because this work matters. I’m not just taking pictures—I’m creating something that will be cherished long after today. I’ve had clients reach out years after a session to thank me for capturing the only photo they have of a grandparent. I’ve seen the way a printed portrait can bring tears to someone’s eyes because it reminds them of love, of connection, of a moment they never want to forget. And that? That is why I do this.

Being a small business owner in this community has given me more than just a career—it’s given me relationships, a sense of belonging, and the ability to give back. And even though the road hasn’t always been smooth, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Because at the end of the day, success isn’t about being the busiest, the biggest, or the most booked—it’s about knowing that what you create has meaning.

So if you’re ever wondering whether to keep going or to give up, here’s what I’d say: keep going if your heart is still in it. Keep going if what you do brings joy—to you and to others. Keep going if you know that one day, someone will look back at what you created and be grateful that you didn’t stop. Because the real measure of success isn’t in the numbers—it’s in the lives we touch along the way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Creating Art That Lasts: My Journey as a Photographer

Photography, for me, is so much more than just taking pictures—it’s about creating something lasting, something that will be treasured for generations. In a world where most photos live on a screen and get lost in the digital shuffle, I focus on turning fleeting moments into tangible art—wall portraits, albums, and prints that become part of a family’s history. I want my clients to walk past their photos every day, to feel the love in them, and to have something to hold onto as time moves forward.

What sets me apart? It’s not just my experience (though I’ve been a full-time photographer for 20 years—no side gigs, no plan B, just a deep love for what I do). It’s the way I work with families—with patience, humor, and a genuine desire to capture their real connections. I’m known for being the “kid whisperer,” the goofy song singer, the one who somehow gets even the most reluctant toddlers (or dads!) to have fun. But beyond the laughter, I focus on creating something meaningful. My clients often tell me that my work is one of the most valuable things they own, and that’s what drives me every day.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Photography is an incredibly competitive field, and being a solopreneur comes with its challenges—self-doubt, long hours, and the pressure of wearing every hat in the business. There were times I wondered if I was doing things right or if I could keep growing. But I’ve learned that community is everything. Surrounding myself with other talented, supportive photographers—especially the amazing women in the San Diego photography scene—has been a game-changer. And I wouldn’t be where I am without my incredible album, wall art, and print vendors, who help bring my vision to life with the highest quality craftsmanship.

If I want the world to know one thing about me and my brand, it’s this: I believe in the power of printed photographs. I believe in creating art that doesn’t just sit on a hard drive but becomes part of a family’s legacy. My work isn’t about trendy edits or fleeting moments of social media fame—it’s about real, timeless, heartfelt storytelling that will be cherished for years to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m a local, I would definitely be able to give lots of great recommendations! If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they got the full Oceanside & Carlsbad experience—a perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes, amazing food, and unforgettable adventures. Here’s how I’d plan it:

Day 1: Welcome to the Coast
Breakfast at Beach Break Café (Oceanside) – Because nothing says “Welcome to California” like their giant cinnamon rolls and epic huevos rancheros.
Explore Oceanside Pier & Strand Beach – A classic spot for walking, people-watching, and maybe spotting some dolphins.
Lunch at The Plot (Oceanside) – A must-visit for plant-based food lovers (or anyone who likes really good food).
Sunset at Oceanside Harbor – Grab a drink at Oceanside Broiler and watch the boats go by.

Day 2: Adventure & Views
Morning Surf Lesson or Bike Ride Along the Coast – Oceanside is a surf town, after all! If surfing’s not their thing, a ride down The Strand is just as fun.
Lunch at Campfire (Carlsbad) – Wood-fired everything and some of the best cocktails around.
Hike at Batiquitos Lagoon – Easy, beautiful, and the perfect way to walk off lunch.
Dinner at Jeune et Jolie (Carlsbad) – A splurge-worthy French-inspired meal. Chic, delicious, and totally worth it.

Day 3: Beach Day & Breweries
Breakfast at Café Topes (Carlsbad) – Their homemade cinnamon rolls? Life-changing.
Beach Day at South Ponto Beach – One of the best beaches in North County for a relaxing day in the sun.
Lunch & Beer Tasting at Bagby Beer (Oceanside) – Incredible brews, amazing burgers, and great ocean views.
Dinner at 333 Pacific (Oceanside) – Because nothing beats a seafood dinner with a sunset view.

Day 4: Day Trip to Encinitas & La Jolla
Morning Coffee at Lofty Coffee (Encinitas) – Start the day with a perfect cappuccino.
Explore the Meditation Gardens (Encinitas) – A peaceful hidden gem with stunning ocean views.
Lunch at The Taco Stand (Encinitas) – One of the best taco spots in all of San Diego County.
Kayaking at La Jolla Cove – Get up close with sea lions, caves, and crystal-clear water.
Dinner at Herb & Sea (Encinitas) – A must for coastal, fresh, and flavorful dining.

Day 5: A Little Bit of Everything
Morning at The Flower Fields (Spring Only, Carlsbad) – If it’s the right season, this is a must-see.
Brunch at The Naked Café (Carlsbad) – Healthy, delicious, and right near the lagoon.
Shopping at Carlsbad Village – Cute boutiques, local shops, and maybe some vintage finds.
Afternoon Wine Tasting at Carruth Cellars (Carlsbad) – Because beachside wine tasting is always a good idea.
Sunset at Terramar Beach (Carlsbad) – A hidden gem for watching the waves roll in.
Dinner at Vigilucci’s (Carlsbad) – Classic Italian with unbeatable ocean views.

Day 6: Relax & Recharge
Spa Day at Ocean Pearl Spa (Carlsbad) – Because vacation should have at least one day of pure relaxation.
Lunch at Shorehouse Kitchen (Carlsbad) – A local favorite with great outdoor seating.
Afternoon Exploring Oceanside’s Art Scene – Visit The Oceanside Museum of Art and check out the cool murals around town.
Final Dinner at Wrench & Rodent (Oceanside) – Some of the best sushi in North County, hands down.

Day 7: Last Beach Walk & Goodbyes
Coffee & Pastries at Revolution Roasters (Oceanside) – The perfect way to start a slow, final morning.
Walk Along Carlsbad State Beach – A beautiful, relaxing way to soak it all in before heading home.

Oceanside and Carlsbad have this perfect blend of laid-back surf culture, incredible food, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Whether you’re into adventure, food, or just soaking up the beach life, there’s truly something for everyone.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I couldn’t do what I do without the incredible community of San Diego women in photography. Being a solopreneur can be lonely at times, and having a group of supportive, talented, and generous peers makes all the difference. Whether it’s sharing knowledge, troubleshooting challenges, or simply reminding each other that we’re not alone in this journey, the support of fellow photographers has been invaluable. It’s a gift to be surrounded by women who uplift and inspire each other, and I’m beyond grateful for them.

I also want to give a huge thank you to my amazing album, wall art, and print vendors, who work tirelessly to ensure that the art I create is printed with the highest quality and care. The work I do doesn’t end when I press the shutter—it truly comes to life when it’s beautifully printed and displayed in a client’s home. I’m incredibly lucky to have vendors who share my commitment to excellence and help me deliver something truly special to the families I work with.

Success is never a solo effort, and I’m grateful every day for the people and businesses that make this journey possible.

Website: https://vallentynephotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vallentynephotography/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-moreau-9064ab8/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vallentynephotography/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/vallentyne-photography-oceanside

Image Credits
Vallentyne Photography