Today we’d like to introduce you to Yaneth Gonzalez.
Hi Yaneth, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m 37 years old. I was born in El Salvador and came to the USA at the age of six years old. I grew up in the Midtown Area of Kansas City, Mo. My atmosphere and my environment wasn’t too pleasant growing up. As a child, my escape was dancing Jazz, Tap and Ballet. My dream was to become a dance choreographer for music entertainment artists. I love to feel the music and the melody flowing through me when I dance. But God had other plans in mind for me. At the age of 15, I got pregnant and gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. My daughter, Jasmine Gonzalez, she changed my life for the better. Having a child as a teen was difficult at times but growing up, I was taught to not fear any obstacles that comes your way. You work hard to provide for your family and never give up on your dreams. In high school, I was really getting into photography. We had a photo lab darkroom and my first picture I develop was my daughter’s 1st birthday. I just fell in love. I have a very successful career and I’ve been with the company for 16 years. But my passion for photography wasn’t going anywhere so instead of complaining, I purchase a camera and my first model was my best friend Heather Keenoy. We both had a passion of the 1940’s PinUp and Greaser Era. We became more creative together by picking at each other’s brain and coming up with photoshoot. I noticed I became obsessed and passionate for photography. I decided to follow my heart and start capturing moments for people ever since. My photography business is called “Xoxygimagekc” you can find me on Instagram and Facebook.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
At the age of six years old, my world was not like any average six years old. I grew up inside a house that was built with scrap sheets of aluminum rooftops and walls in El Salvador. My mom had to leave me when I was only six months old because she couldn’t take me where she was going. My mother had to swim the river to get to the US. My mom grew up fearless, brave, strong, courageous. If it wasn’t for my mother, I wouldn’t be here today. As I grew older, I was surrounded a lot with domestic violence and abuse. Life was tough but I managed to survive and I’m grateful everyday.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a photographer and fitness influencers and I’m also a promoting model. I’m known for my very bright and creative urban photography. I enjoy the smiles I leave on my clients. I like to make people feel comfortable and catch good vibes. Im very calm, mellow to work with. I’m also affordable, my prices ranges from $45 to $150 and I’m flexible as well.
Also, I’m currently educating myself to become a music manager. Famous Von is the current artist I’m helping promote. Please check him out on IG/TikTok: nodayzoff_von YouTube: Famous Von @nodayzoff. Von has a very inspiring story to tell and his music is very creative and straight to the point about life struggles and how to get above them.
I’ve network with many talented people but I would like to name a few that has help me in many ways with my passion.
Ethan Dalton( IG: @zeroera86) the Creative Art Director for @CleverFools streetwear merch. Ethan creativity is mind blowing. He has created several master pieces for @CleverFools which is own by Alex Trinkle.
CEO of www.ReneeLarouge.com Dionne Holts. Her handmade visuals and fashion pieces are out of this world. She was recently premier in Kansas City The Pitch for “ The W. 18th St. Fashion Show” in June.
Please check out these talented friends of mine!
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Staying Consistent and dedicated. Building a great rapport with your clients to create word of mouth. I also enjoy doing free sessions once a month because I enjoy giving back and that’s also how I build and network with others.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Xoxygimagekc
- Facebook: Xox yg amor
Image Credits
Ethan Dalton, Dionne Renee, Famous Von, Phillip Ransburg, Israel Naor, Kevin Dean, Domm D Brown, Heather Keenoy