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

Hi Emily, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Taking pictures has always been something I’ve enjoyed doing. No matter where or on what I would take pictures of the sky, my family, friends, animals, myself, etc! It made me happy because I loved keeping all my memories by taking pictures. My sister is also a photographer I grew up watching her do what she does best. I learned everything I know from my older sister Marissa. She’s the one that inspired me to pursue my passion with photography. She was and still is my inspiration. The first time I actually started pursuing my photography career was when I got my camera last Christmas from my dad. I always wanted a camera but we lived a tough life so I just never had the money for one but my dad made it possible for me to spread my wings and do what I love most. When I opened my present and saw it was a camera I was so excited! The first thing I wanted to do was go out and take pictures. Which is what I did! My little brother got a new bike and I took some pictures of him riding it. First pictures I ever took on my camera. But then after that my opportunities grew more and more. I started going to car meets and taking pictures of cars. I was taking pictures and posting on my Instagram to try to get myself out there more. Temecula Car Community is a car group that I do photography for. They reached out to me one day for me to do photography for their page and of course I agreed! I was so excited when they reached out to me and they saw my potential in my photos and how much effort I put into them. They gave me the motivation I needed to keep doing what I’m doing and become greater at it. They support me every step of the way. I love my community that I am a part of and I wouldn’t change it for anything. I’ve met some really amazing people out of it. Slowly but surely I what to grow more and more everyday and put smiles on people’s faces with my photography.

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 lost my mother from leukemia when I was 14. It was one of the toughest times I ever had to go through. Especially at such a young age. I went weeks crying, not eating much, not doing good in school, so many other things. It all just happened so fast I didn’t think I could recover. If it wasn’t for the support of the people I had around me I wouldn’t be here today. I’m so thankful to all of you. It was not easy to get where I am today. It still is a challenge everyday but you have to keep pushing no matter what comes in your way. Even if life isn’t in your favor right now and your struggling never give up. Take time, give yourself a few days then get yourself back into a mindset where you can motivate yourself to be great. I’ve learned about so much over the years it’s crazy but one thing I do know for sure is that never let anyone stop you from making your dreams a reality. I learned that the hard way but life is not easy sometimes and honestly there will always be hard things in life that you have to deal with or go through but you can never give up. Time is precious. Have fun with what you do and never take anything for granted just live your life to the fullest!!!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take a trip to oceanside beach it’s just so beautiful out there. We would definitely go to in n out to eat. Their burgers, fries and shakes there are always so good especially their lemonade. Then after we eat we would go to the pier and walk around for a bit. I love taking pictures while being on the pier it’s such a pretty view. Then when it starts getting dark it’s nice to sit on the beach next to the bomb fire and hangout.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My sister Marissa is my main support system. She’s always been there through everything that’s happened in our life. No matter what she never leaves my side and continues pushing me to become great. I love her so much and I’m so grateful for everything she has done for me. Without her I don’t know where I’d be. Thank you sis <3
Another shoutout goes to my boyfriend Ricky. He has been another big support system of mine. Me and him have had a rough time for the past two years. When I first met him I was a girl that was in a lot of pain but never knew why. My whole body was shutting down on me and I always had to take ibuprofen just to be able to walk. He stuck by my side everyday helping me when I didn’t feel okay. He took me everywhere I need to go so I can figure out what was wrong. Turns out that whole time I had spondylosis arthritis. Which is arthritis in your spine. He stayed all the way through me getting better and I am so thankful for everything he has done for me. He is my motivation, safe place, and just my everything honestly. I love you baby <3
Shoutout to all my friends and family that have stuck around through everything I love you guys so so much as well! Thank you!!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emz_photography05?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566201510918&mibextid=JRoKGi

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lifewithemily05?si=djXmlED5TKAZIQjd

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.