Meet Chermetra Keys | The Female Shoota

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

Hi Chermetra, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
My work-life balance has shifted a lot over the years. In the beginning, I was saying yes to everything, every inquiry, every request, no matter the time or day. I thought that’s what I had to do to grow, but all it really did was burn me out. Now, I’ve created a consistent schedule where I shoot Tuesday through Saturday, and I take Sundays and Mondays completely off. Setting those boundaries has been a game-changer. It’s helped me protect my peace, be more present in my personal life, and actually enjoy the work I do even more.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Turning visions into timeless art is truly my gift. What sets me apart is my ability to blend different shooting and lighting styles to bring any vision to life. Over the years, I’ve studied and experimented with so many techniques that I’m now able to create a wide range of looks that feel both polished and deeply personal. Every session is custom, it’s not one-size-fits-all. My clients are like celebrities to me, and I aim to make each person feel seen, celebrated, and confident.

The story behind my brand is rooted in self-love, resilience, and building my own confidence through photography. I started behind the lens during one of the most confusing and challenging times of my life. I didn’t always know what I was doing, but I knew I had a purpose. Photography gave me that purpose and over time, it became a way to heal not just myself, but others, too.

This journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to overcome self-doubt, financial hurdles, and moments where I questioned if I was doing enough. But I’ve learned that when you lead with passion, set boundaries, and stay aligned with your purpose, everything begins to flow.

What I want the world to know is this: I’m not just capturing images, I’m changing lives, one session at a time. The Female Shoota is more than a brand, it’s a movement of empowerment, beauty, and real stories being told through my lens.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first stop would definitely be my studio, I’d want my best friend to see what I’ve built and really soak in the good energy of the space. It’s not just where I work, it’s where a lot of transformation happens, so it would mean a lot to share that with them.

After that, we’d head downtown to 4 Play for some good wings, fries, and music, can’t visit without getting a little taste of the culture and vibe of the city. These days I’m more of a homebody, so if I’m not in the studio, I’m either chilling at home or at one of my kids’ sports games. So of course, I’d have to take them to a game or two, my kids are a big part of my life, and I know they’d love the support.

From there, we’d just see where the week takes us. I’m real chill and lowkey these days, so I’d want to do something that involves self-care, maybe a spa day, sound bowl session, or just catching up over brunch somewhere relaxing. Nothing too crazy, just good energy, meaningful moments, and a few surprises along the way

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! My shoutout goes to my two kids, Jai’Dan and Jai’Monaie. They are my reason, my motivation, and my biggest why. Everything I’ve built, every risk I’ve taken, and every late night I’ve pushed through has been for them. I wanted to create a life that gave me the freedom and flexibility to truly show up for them, not just financially, but emotionally and physically. They’ve taught me strength, resilience, and purpose, and I’m forever grateful they’re part of this journey with me.

Website: https://thefemaleshoota.com

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

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

Image Credits
The Female Shoota