Meet Andy Contreras | Photographer & Small Business Owner

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

Hi Andy, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Deciding whether to keep going or give up is one of the toughest calls to make, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. I’ve faced this dilemma many times, and it’s never easy. While we’re often being told to “never give up,” the reality is that sometimes stepping away is the healthiest choice.

Before making any decision, it’s crucial to give your all. Pour everything into your project so that, whatever the outcome, you know you did your best. However, if you find that your efforts are draining more from you than they’re giving back, whether that’s in terms of energy, happiness, or mental well-being—it’s worth pausing to reassess.

I believe that much like in relationships, if it’s consistently depleting you and affecting your well-being, it might be time not to “give up” in the traditional sense, but to move forward in a different direction. Sometimes, letting go is a necessary step toward growth and new opportunities.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From the moment I first held a camera, I felt an undeniable pull toward capturing the beauty I saw in the world around me. It was the begining of my profound connection to creativity.

Throughout my career I worked alongside many talented photographers in various industries, such as commercial, fashion and architecture photography. This, along with my Fine Art Photography studies is what truly transformed my perspective and what has been instrumental in shaping the way I approach my work today.

One of the defining aspects of my company, Photo Booth Boutique, is our commitment to designing and creating unique photo booths. We currently have ten modern and vintage style photo booths, with more in development. This is what sets us apart from others in the industry. I firmly believe that there is beauty in standing out, being different, offering more, and it’s this philosophy that has guided me to create more than just a photo booth, but an artpiece.

Although it’s this design process that truly invigorates me, the journey hasn’t been easy. The biggest challenge for me has been embracing the idea of “almost perfect.” As a creator, it’s tempting to strive for perfection, but I’ve learned that bringing a creation to life, even with its imperfections, is far more rewarding than letting it remain just an idea.

What I want the world to know about Photo Booth Boutique is that every detail, every revision, and every creative idea that goes into our booths is done with the goal of making your event extraordinary. Our photo booths are designed to blend seamlessly into your décor, as if every single detail was accounted for—because it was.

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.
This one is easy, the beach! It’s my absolute favorite thing to do in life, to be surrounded by the vast beauty of the unknown – the beach. We can tan and soak in the sun during the day and enjoy a beautiful walk or bike ride at night. Hang out in our hammocks at Crandon Park and take a tour of the Lighthouse in Key Biscayne.

Another favorite destination for me would be Brickell. The views, the vibes and all the food options are fabulous. I’m a big fan of small, casual style restaurants therefore SoCal, Moxies and North Italia are a must. And of course we must take a walk down the streets of Wynwood, have brunch in Coconut Grove and dinner in the Gables.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are countless people that in even the smallest way have impacted my growth along the way, which all deserve a shoutout. My family, former and current employees, and supportive communities, each continue to play a special role in my story.

First and foremost, I want to give a special shoutout to my son. He’s been my rock, my advisor, and my confidant. Despite his young age, his strong sense of logic and ability to stay neutral have made him the perfect partner in every sense. His presence has provided the foundation I need to keep moving forward.

I also want to express my deep gratitude to all the incredible people who have worked for me, both in the past and present. It’s nearly impossible to grow alone, and without their dedication and hard work, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Lastly, I owe a lot to the supportive groups and forums filled with like-minded individuals who freely share their experiences without bias. In particular, being a member of Professional Photographers of America (PPA) has been invaluable in my career. Through their workshops and conferences, I’ve learned more than I ever did in six years of traditional education. Their community has been a cornerstone of my professional development, and I can’t say enough good things about the impact they’ve had on my career.

Success is rarely a solo journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the people and resources that have guided me along the way.

Website: https://www.photoboothboutique.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miamiphotoboothboutique/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-contreras-5a6a0625/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miamiphotoboothboutique

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PhotoBoothBoutiqueMiami

Image Credits
Headshot Photography by Erica Melissa
Event Photography by Studio Andy