Meet Josie Ruiz | Founder of Aurastry | Aura Photographer & Reader

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

Hi Josie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Aurastry was born from my two greatest passions in life, spirituality and photography. For over seven years, I’ve run an online metaphysical shop, guided by a lifelong passion for spiritual wellness. I’ve dedicated myself to helping others through crystal healing, astrology, and energy work. At the same time, photography has been a part of my soul for as long as I can remember. I studied Art and Photography at California State University, Northridge, but my love for capturing moments started way back in elementary school. When I finally discovered aura photography, it felt like everything just clicked. It allowed me to merge my creative expression with my spiritual path, and offer something meaningful to others, something that reflects not just how they look, but who they are on an energetic level. Starting my aura photography business felt less like a start and more like a “finally”, because it was something I think deep down I had always longed for.

My background in photography allows me to bring care and intention to each image I take, while my experience in the healing space helps me interpret auras. Aurastry is more than a photo, it’s a moment of reflection, connection, and self-discovery. When I started my business, I wasn’t just interested in capturing a pretty photo. I knew that I wanted the experience to feel deeply personal and meaningful. My goal was for people to walk away feeling seen, uplifted, and maybe even a little more connected to themselves. From the beginning, this work has been just as fulfilling for me as I hope it is for my clients.

Starting out was a risk, especially since aura photography isn’t widely understood. But I trusted myself and followed a strong inner knowing that this was part of my path. Every decision I’ve made has been guided by a desire to create something supportive and authentic and I think that my clients can feel that.

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.
What excites me most about Aurastry is the incredible experiences I’ve had and the amazing people I’ve met along the way. Every new connection energizes me and fills me with anticipation for the future and all the incredible individuals I’ve yet to meet.

What’s surprised me most is how emotional and intimate these sessions can be. I’ve laughed and cried with clients, and I genuinely care about their stories and healing journeys. It’s not something people always expect, but I’m deeply invested in each person I work with.

I want people to know that this isn’t just a photo op, it’s an experience designed to help people feel seen. I take time to make sure every client feels comfortable, grounded, and empowered throughout the process. From setting the vibe when they step in, to explaining their aura colors in a way that’s affirming and insightful, my goal is always to create a memorable and healing encounter.

Nothing worth pursuing is ever easy, and I’ve definitely faced challenges along the way. What’s helped me overcome those obstacles is the incredible support of my community, my village, my family, and those who believe in me. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that no one builds their dreams alone. Without that support system, the journey would be so much harder, if not impossible. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about individual effort, it’s about the people who lift you up and walk alongside you.

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.
If my best friend were visiting me in the Valley for a week, I’d want them to experience the mix of hidden gems, comfort food, and low-key fun that makes this area feel like home. I’d start by grabbing boba at my favorite tea house in Northridge “Boba Tea House”. Then we’d go thrift and vintage shopping in North Hollywood’s Art District as well as Magnolia street in Burbank; there are some great curated shops and you never know what you’ll find.

We’d definitely hit up some of the amazing taco trucks and street vendors throughout the Valley there’s honestly no better way to taste the local flavor. I’d also take them on a hike or around Lake Balboa for some nature, followed by a relaxing evening at a cozy neighborhood spot like a local diner or a family-owned sushi place. The goal would be to show them the real Valley that is so community-focused, chill, and full of character.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my family. Without their support, Aurastry wouldn’t exist today.

To my husband, Cristian, who supports every idea I have, from the smallest spark to the wildest of dreams. To my brother and sister-in-law, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help bring my creative projects to life. To my aunt Aurelia, who I can always count on without question. And to my niece Aliah, who often gives up her weekends to travel with me and take auras all over.

And most of all, to my mom, who taught me the value of hard work and putting my heart into everything I do. She believed in my vision from day one, even when others didn’t. I know that aura photography is an unconventional path, especially as a first-generation Latina, but her unwavering support has been the foundation of this journey.

I also want to shout out my incredible community of healers, artists, and entrepreneurs who continue to inspire me every single day. So many of them have opened their spaces, studios, and their hearts to me, inviting me to bring aura photography into their unique spaces. Without their generosity and trust, I wouldn’t have been able to create so many meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences. Their kindness and openness have made this journey possible and have enriched my work in ways I never could have imagined.

Lastly, thank you to all my amazing clients who trust me to capture and share their unique energies through aura photography. Your openness and courage inspire me every day, and it’s an honor to be part of your healing and self-discovery journey.

Website: https://www.aurastry.com/aura-photography

Instagram: @aurastry.photo

Other: TikTok: @aurastry.photo

Image Credits
Cristian Camilo Ruiz