Meet Maybeline Despagne | Photographer

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

Hi Maybeline, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I did not originally set out to pursue a creative career. Photography entered my life as a passion before it became my profession. At the time, I was already running a business, but I found myself increasingly drawn to the creative process, experimenting with lighting, concepts, and storytelling through images. What started as curiosity gradually became something I could not ignore.

I was fascinated by the idea that a simple concept could be transformed into something visually powerful. Photography gave me a way to express ideas, emotions, and stories that words sometimes cannot capture. The more I practiced and experimented, the more I realized that creativity was something I wanted to explore seriously.

Over time, that passion grew into a craft and eventually into a career. I realized that through photography, I could not only express my own creativity but also help others see themselves in a new light. Whether it is through portraits, conceptual shoots, or creative sets, I enjoy creating images that make people feel confident, inspired, or simply proud of the moment being captured.

In many ways, pursuing a creative career felt less like a decision and more like a natural evolution. The more I learned and created, the clearer it became that this was the path where my entrepreneurial spirit and my creativity could truly come together.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is centered around portrait photography with a strong emphasis on creativity and storytelling. I enjoy transforming simple ideas into visually striking images. Many of my shoots start with a concept that may seem ordinary, but through lighting, styling, and imagination, I turn it into something artistic and memorable. I have created shoots using materials such as newspapers, plastic, fabrics, and everyday objects because I believe creativity is not limited by resources. What sets my work apart is this willingness to experiment and push ideas beyond traditional portrait photography.

I did not originally start my career in the creative field. Before becoming a photographer, I was an entrepreneur running a shipping company to Haiti that I founded in 2009. Photography began as a passion and slowly grew into a serious craft. The more I practiced, experimented, and invested in learning, the more opportunities began to appear. Eventually, I opened Pix City Studio and transitioned into photography full time.

The journey was not easy. Building a career in a creative industry requires patience, resilience, and constant learning. There were moments of uncertainty, especially when transitioning from a stable business into a creative profession. Like many entrepreneurs and artists, I have also experienced slow seasons and unexpected challenges that forced me to rethink my strategies and adapt.

One example was when I noticed a decline in studio bookings and had to find new ways to connect with my audience. That challenge pushed me outside my comfort zone and led me to create a show called Kreyòl Kap Pale. Through interviews with Haitian celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers, the show quickly gained visibility and helped introduce my work to a wider audience. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more comfortable sharing my voice and story.

One of the biggest lessons I have learned along the way is the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Growth rarely happens in comfortable moments. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, adjust, and evolve.

What I want the world to know about my brand and my story is that creativity and determination can open doors you never expected. I am proud of the path I have taken, not because it was easy, but because it required courage, reinvention, and a deep belief in my craft. My goal is not only to create beautiful images but also to inspire others to embrace their creativity and keep moving forward, even when the path is uncertain.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love comedy, so if my best friend were visiting, I would definitely try to plan the trip around a night at the improv to catch a good comedian performing. There is nothing better than sharing a night full of laughter, and it is always a fun way to start the week.

If there was no show scheduled, we would probably head to Sawgrass Mills Mall. I enjoy taking visitors there because there is so much to do in one place. We would most likely have dinner at Texas de Brazil, which is always a great experience, and then either catch a movie or spend some time walking through the mall.

Since I am located in South Florida, I would also make sure to include some time outdoors. Depending on the season and the weather, we might spend a day at the beach or take one of the ferry rides along the water. South Florida has such beautiful scenery, and being near the ocean is always relaxing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a special shout-out to my husband. Throughout my entire career, he has been my biggest supporter and my greatest cheerleader. From the early days of my entrepreneurial journey to the different pivots and challenges along the way, he has always believed in me and encouraged me to keep going.

Building businesses and pursuing a creative career can come with many uncertainties, but having someone who constantly reminds you of your potential makes a huge difference. His support, patience, and encouragement have played an important role in helping me stay motivated and confident in the path I have chosen. I am truly grateful to have someone by my side who believes in my vision just as much as I do.

Website: https://www.maybelinephotography.com/

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

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

Other: https://www.pixcity.studio/

Image Credits
Maybeline Despagne