Michelle LaCruz
Michelle LaCruz (she/her) is a South Florida–based studio owner and commercial photographer with over 13 years of experience creating high-impact imagery for brands, agencies, and producers. She specializes in product, model, and B2B photography, bringing a distinctive blend of creativity, technical precision, and strategic insight to every project. Michelle is deeply involved in all aspects of the photography process, from conceptualization and creative direction to post-production, ensuring that every image she produces authentically represents her clients’ vision and objectives. Her disciplined, detail-oriented approach, combined with a talent for visual storytelling, allows her to deliver work that is both compelling and commercially effective.
Born and raised in Venezuela, Michelle relocated to the United States in 2019, where she initially focused on wedding and family photography before shifting her attention to product, model, and B2B commercial work. In January 2023, she launched her own photography studio in Boca Raton, successfully building a client-focused commercial photography practice that prioritizes collaboration, creativity, and results. Over the years, she has partnered with luxury, lifestyle, and consumer brands, helping them showcase their identity and engage audiences through photography that is both visually striking and strategically aligned.
What sets Michelle apart is her ability to combine an analytical systems-engineering background with her creative practice, allowing her to operate her studio as a disciplined, scalable business rather than a traditional freelance venture. She approaches each project with strategic planning, operational efficiency, and a commitment to excellence, ensuring consistent quality while meeting the unique needs of each client. Michelle’s professional ethos is rooted in collaboration, continuous learning, and delivering exceptional work that makes a measurable impact for the brands she serves, establishing her as a trusted and respected photographer in the South Florida creative community.
• Learning Canva
• Content Marketing: Social Media
• Learning Natural Light Portrait Photography
• Photoshop: Adding Style to a Studio Portrait
• Universidad de Oriente (VE) - BSSEBM
• Volunteer participant with United Way of Broward County
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to giving 100% effort in everything I do, building meaningful connections through networking, and serving as a dedicated mentor to others. Outside of work, I have a passion for crafting and enjoying the outdoors, which help me stay balanced and inspired.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stay focused on my goals and remember that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. It’s important to keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges, and to maintain determination and resilience along the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Encourages young people especially from Latin families to consider careers in the arts and shows that creative work can be profitable and professionally managed.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is expanding our reach to connect with more individuals who need support, ensuring they know we are here to help. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, and I am committed to maximizing our impact each day.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are a strong commitment to continuous learning, pursuing ongoing education, leading by example, and consistently delivering my best work. I strive to approach every challenge with curiosity and dedication, ensuring that my actions reflect integrity, professionalism, and a drive for excellence.