Meet Julie

dreamer /  artist / perfectionist / mother / baker 

I'm originally from Saigon, Vietnam but grew up in Upstate, NY. I come from a large family (6 sisters and 1 brother). Not only do I have 6 sisters but my parents decided to give all my sisters and I the same first name, “Mai”. Imagine how confusing that was for my friends! Growing up, I was “Mai number 7” up until I legally changed my name to Julie. I’ve always loved my birth name so decided I wanted my business to be Mai Photography. :)

I've always loved photography and never imagined it would be anything more than a hobby. I've been shooting with my SONY digital camera for years. One day my brother told me I should invest in a DSLR and I could borrow his lenses. Months later, I finally pulled the trigger and bought a camera. Unknowingly, my brother was no longer able to lend me his lenses due to financial issues. Imagine my face when I realized I had to spend even more money on a photography equipment when I already had one a point and shoot to being with. So I searched craigslist for an inexpensive lens with good reviews. That's when I met George Jweid. First thing that popped into my head was to ask George, "are you hiring?" It wouldn't hurt to ask...right? I got a "No" but George was willing to let me accompany him to one of his weddings. Determined to get a part time job that I'm passionate about...I told George "I am going to follow you until you hire me". Well, it worked! I now have my own business and get to create beautiful images for my clients. I love every second of it!  

I’m currently between NY and Northern VA and am happy to capture your special moments anywhere around the world! Ready to talk? Shoot me an email Julie@Mai-Photos.com, call or text me 315-372-1884!

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