Meet Valerie Carpenter | Photographer & Small Business Owner

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

Hi Valerie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting Pride in Pixels was deeply personal and intentional. I’ve always been drawn to the power of photography to tell stories—especially the ones that often go unseen or underrepresented. I wanted to create a space where everyone could feel seen, celebrated, and safe in front of the camera. My business specializes in lifestyle photography that captures the unique, beautiful, adventurous, and timeless love of all people.
The name Pride in Pixels is a direct nod to my love and support for the LGBTQIA+ community, but my mission goes beyond that. I strive to make every session inclusive, welcoming, and affirming—whether you’re queer, straight, trans, nonbinary, or anywhere in between. Love is love, and every story deserves to be documented with care, artistry, and pride.
Starting my own business gave me the freedom to build something that reflects my values, my creativity, and my belief that representation matters. It’s not just about taking photos—it’s about creating moments that feel like home

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career as a photographer has been anything but linear—and I’m proud of that. I didn’t start out with a studio or a portfolio full of clients. I started with a camera, a deep love for storytelling, and a vision to create a space where everyone could feel seen. Pride in Pixels was born from that vision: a lifestyle photography company that celebrates the unique, beautiful, adventurous, and classic love of all people.
What sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity and inclusion. I don’t just take photos—I create experiences that feel safe, affirming, and joyful. Whether I’m capturing a queer couple’s engagement, a family’s quiet Sunday morning, or a solo portrait session of someone rediscovering their confidence, I approach each shoot with empathy, curiosity, and care.
Getting here wasn’t easy. Like many creatives, I’ve faced imposter syndrome, financial uncertainty, and the challenge of building a brand from scratch. But I overcame those hurdles by staying rooted in my “why”—the belief that representation matters, and that every person deserves to have their story told with dignity and artistry. I leaned on my community, invested in my growth, and learned to trust my voice.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It can be slow, intentional, and deeply personal. I want the world to know that Pride in Pixels isn’t just a business—it’s a love letter to every person who’s ever felt unseen. Through my lens, you are celebrated. You are enough. You are art.

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?
If my best friend came to visit Boulder for the weekend, I’d plan a trip that’s equal parts soulful, scenic, and delicious. Boulder is a place where nature meets creativity, and every corner has something worth exploring. Here’s our perfect weekend:

Day 1: Local Flavor & Mountain Views
Morning:
We’d start with breakfast at Lucile’s Creole Café, a cozy spot in a historic Victorian home serving beignets, cheesy grits, and chicory coffee. It’s the kind of place that feels like a warm hug.
Midday:
We’d stroll Pearl Street Mall, Boulder’s pedestrian-friendly downtown filled with quirky shops, street performers, and art galleries. We’d stop by Boulder Book Store and Neptune Mountaineering, then grab a light lunch at SALT The Bistro, known for its farm-to-table menu.
Afternoon:
We’d walk or bike the Boulder Creek Path, a scenic 5.5-mile trail perfect for a peaceful escape. If it’s warm, we’d dip our toes in the creek at Scott Carpenter Park or picnic in Central Park.
Evening:
Dinner would be at License No. 1, a speakeasy-style bar in the historic Hotel Boulderado. Think classic cocktails, velvet booths, and vintage vibes.

Day 2: Adventure & Artistry
Morning:
We’d hit the Boulder Farmers Market (open Saturdays), grab cold brew and fresh pastries, and stock up on picnic goodies.
Midday:
Next stop: Chautauqua Park for a hike in the Flatirons. Whether we choose an easy trail or something more challenging, the views are always worth it.
Afternoon:
After the hike, we’d unwind at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, a stunning Tajik-style building shipped piece-by-piece from Dushanbe and reassembled in Boulder. It’s a cultural gem with ornate details and delicious teas.
Evening:
Dinner would be at Post Brewing or Bohemian Biergarten—both offer hearty meals and local brews. Post Brewing’s fried chicken and green chili mac are legendary.
Nightcap:
We’d end the night with live music or a quiet drink back on Pearl Street, soaking in the energy of Boulder’s creative community.

Boulder is a place that invites you to slow down, connect, and celebrate the little things. It’s the perfect backdrop for friendship, photography, and finding joy in the everyday.

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?
There are so many people and communities who’ve helped shape Pride in Pixels into what it is today. First and foremost, I want to shout out the LGBTQIA+ community—not just for inspiring the name of my business, but for showing me what love, resilience, and authenticity truly look like. Every story I capture is a reflection of the courage and beauty I’ve witnessed in this community.
I also owe a huge thank you to my close friends and chosen family who believed in me before I believed in myself. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to take the leap into entrepreneurship and reminded me that my voice—and my lens—matter.
And finally, I want to recognize every client who’s trusted me to document their love, their milestones, and their everyday magic. Your vulnerability, joy, and uniqueness are the heartbeat of this business. You’ve helped me grow not just as a photographer, but as a person.
Pride in Pixels is a collective story, and I’m just one part of it. So this shoutout is for all of you.

Website: https://www.prideinpixels.com

Instagram: PrideInPixels