Thao (a.k.a. Claire) is a self-taught photographer and designer with training from the University of Texas at Arlington as well as Texas State University. She majored in Advertising with a concentration in Digital Media and two minors in Fashion Merchandising as well as Fine Arts and design.

Thao currently is a full-time mom to a toddler and the main illustrator for her own children’s book company called Galaxy Gals Studio. The company was founded in 2022 by Thao and her best friend/business partner, Ashley Chow, after discovering their common passion for writing and illustrating children’s books.

Aside from her day-to-day activities, she also works on numerous freelance projects ranging from illustrator, and graphic design, to product photography. Her combined talents in photography, design, and art give her versatility in her creative process which she values as her core strength.