Conversations with Paola Tello

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paola Tello

Hi Paola, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Panama, where my love for photography started at a young age. I’ve always been drawn to capturing the beauty in small, everyday details—whether it was the vibrant colors of nature or the textures of everyday objects. Photography was my way of seeing the world differently.

In 2019, I moved to Kansas City, excited to start a new chapter in my life. While photography was always my passion, it wasn’t until 2021 that I decided to turn it into something more. Taking that leap wasn’t easy—I was juggling a lot, but I knew I had to follow my passion and make it work.

When cannabis legalization passed in Missouri, I saw an opportunity to bring my skills into a new and growing industry. I started working with cannabis brands and quickly discovered my love for macro photography. There’s something magical about being able to see the details that the naked eye can’t—the trichomes, textures, and colors that make each strain unique. It’s like uncovering a hidden world, and I knew right away that this was the niche I wanted to specialize in.

I absolutely love my job and wouldn’t change it for anything. My favorite part is watching the final product come to life after hours of shooting and editing. Seeing how all the little details come together to create something beautiful and impactful is incredibly rewarding.

Now, as a cannabis photographer in Missouri and Kansas City, I get to work with amazing brands and dispensaries to create images that not only showcase their products but also tell a story. Whether I’m working with a cannabis marketing agency or a small local business, my goal is to help them stand out through creative and impactful product photography.

This journey has been incredible. It’s taught me to trust my instincts, embrace challenges, and take pride in helping elevate the cannabis industry. I’m grateful to be doing what I love and to be part of such an exciting and growing community.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When it comes to cannabis photography, one of the biggest struggles is the lack of resources available online. Because it’s such a niche industry within the world of photography—and because cannabis isn’t legal in every state—there’s very little information to learn from.

Unlike other areas of photography, where you can easily find tutorials, guides, or even communities to share tips and techniques, cannabis photography often requires figuring things out on your own. This was especially challenging when I started specializing in macro photography.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in cannabis photography, with a strong focus on macro photography, which allows me to capture the intricate details of cannabis products. As a cannabis photographer in Missouri and Kansas City, I work with dispensaries and cannabis marketing agencies to create impactful product photography that helps brands stand out. Whether it’s the shimmering trichomes of a flower or the texture of a concentrate, my goal is to showcase the artistry and craftsmanship behind every product.

What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come in carving out a space for myself in this niche industry. Cannabis photography is still a relatively new field, and being able to contribute to its growth—especially in Missouri—feels incredibly rewarding.

What sets me apart is my dedication to detail and storytelling. Macro photography has become my signature because it allows me to reveal what the naked eye can’t see—transforming cannabis products into something artistic and captivating.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cannashotskc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cannashotskc/