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

Hi Christel, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for your children?
My 3 children are my biggest inspirations, especially when it comes to photography. They teach me to always stop and smell the roses. The most important thing I have done as a parent is to make sure my kids know how much they are loved.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a lifestyle photographer that specializes in families, newborns and couples. There are so many talented photographers out there and each has their own unique style. I take pride in my casual and laid back style while striving to produce very natural and emotive images. My goal during every session is to make every client comfortable in front of my lens, have tons of fun and leave them feeling like they’ve gained a new friend. From the very beginning, I immersed myself in education and I’m constantly learning something new. The biggest lesson I have learned along the way is to focus on my own craft and growth and not compare myself to others. Without focus it’s easy to get intimidated and lose confidence. I hope to continue growing as a photographer and look forward to the wonderful people I meet along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Without a doubt, we would visit one of our local beaches to spend the day. Seaside Beach at low tide is magical with it’s beautiful tide pools. We would go for a hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve which is so beautiful and scenic. For breakfast or brunch, we would check out Shorehouse Kitchen or Cafe Topes in Carlsbad Village. For dinner and drinks, my favorite restaurants to visit are Campfire, 264 Fresco, Clara, Jeune et Jolie (all of which are also in the Village) or North Italia at One Paseo. For some retail therapy, we would go plant shopping at Landmark Plant Co in South Oceanside, check out the other hip shops around there, then grab a coffee at Revolution Roasters. For some live music, we would go to Belly Up to catch a cool reggae band. Lastly, we would end the trip with a relaxing visit to Lemongrass Spa in Encinitas.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to give a shoutout to my dear friend and mentor, Chris Nelson (an amazing photographer) who encouraged me to take a leap of faith and start a photography business. Another dear friend, Jean Quinn (a talented children’s clothing designer), gave me the opportunity to photograph my very first wedding last year. And of course, my beloved family and friends for their love, support and always believing in me from day one.

Website: www.christeltran.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/christel.tran.photo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christeltranphotography/