We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kayla Disser. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kayla below.

Kayla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

Starting my photography business was a significant risk. Previously, I worked as a second-grade teacher, a career I had committed to and was still paying student loans for. I enjoyed the predictable cycle of the school year, with a stable salary, benefits, and a familiar community. Change has never been easy for me, but I realized I needed a more flexible career to prioritize my emotional and physical well-being.

The thought of starting over was overwhelming—both the unknown possibilities and the financial risk. After deep introspection, research, and exploration, I landed on photography. Creativity has always been a part of me; I’ve loved photography since childhood, owning countless cameras over the years. However, I had no experience with professional photography or running a business. I’ve never been one to jump without knowing exactly where I would land. I almost always have a thorough plan in place. However, despite my fears, I took the leap, embracing the challenge step by step. It was incredibly daunting at first, but I enjoyed hitting each milestone and reflecting on my progress.

Today, I have a small but fulfilling photography business with loyal clients who mean the world to me. My work allows me to capture meaningful memories, express my creativity, and enjoy the freedom of choice. Plus, I still get to work with children, which has been immensely rewarding. Taking this risk has been one of the best decisions of my life, and I hope to continue embracing new challenges with the same courage.

Kayla, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Kayla Disser, and I am a portrait, family, and small event photographer based in Pflugerville, TX. Before stepping into photography, I spent five years as a second-grade public school teacher. In 2023, I took a leap into the world of photography and entrepreneurship, turning my passion for capturing authentic moments into a full-time career.

I offer individual portrait sessions for children and adults, outdoor family sessions, and intimate event photography that highlights meaningful details and genuine interactions. My work is deeply rooted in storytelling—finding and preserving the “glimmers” of life that may seem small in the moment but grow in significance over time.

One of my specialties is working with children, embracing their unpredictability and unique personalities. I understand that kids aren’t always interested in the carefully planned sessions their parents envision. That’s why I let them take the lead in a way, ensuring they feel comfortable and engaged. I reassure parents that even when things don’t go as planned, we’ll still capture beautiful, authentic images that reflect their family’s true essence. Some of my favorite galleries come from sessions where parents thought nothing would turn out, only to be amazed by the outcome.

What sets me apart is my commitment to celebrating imperfection and realness. While we all hope for perfect photos, true beauty lies in genuine moments. My goal is to help my clients embrace the reality of their sessions, capturing joy, connection, and love—no matter what unfolds. I take pride in creating an experience that allows families to make memories, not just take pictures.

I want potential clients to know that when they work with me, they’re not just getting a photographer; they’re getting a dedicated partner in preserving their cherished moments. Whether it’s a milestone, a fleeting childhood expression, or the raw emotions of an intimate event, I am honored to document the moments that matter most.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The majority of my new clients come from existing clients. In the beginning, my focus was on getting the word out about who I am, what I offer, and showcasing my work. Everything changed when I booked my first paid session—a wonderful family celebrating their first child’s six-month milestone. The mother was someone I had met nearly a decade prior when we both worked in the same restaurant during college. From that moment, things began to evolve.

Over time, clients started returning for multiple sessions, and referrals became a steady stream of new business. What started as a small network has grown into a beautiful community of families that I’m incredibly grateful for. Initially, I was anxious about SEO, social media marketing, and business cards. While those elements are valuable and something I plan to refine, the heart and soul of my business has been word-of-mouth recommendations.

Additionally, wonderful opportunities have come from connecting with other creatives in my field. Rather than seeing them as competition, I view these relationships as meaningful collaborations. Some of my most rewarding projects have come from fellow photographers recommending me.

For me, success isn’t about booking every possible client or maximizing profit at all costs. The most meaningful projects come from genuine connections—where clients see me not just as a photographer but as someone who values their story. That’s why I cherish the clients who find me through personal recommendations. They come to me because someone they trust has experienced the care, creativity, and dedication I bring to every session.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the emotional fulfillment it brings. Too often, jobs drain us, leaving us resentful, pessimistic, and trapped in the cycle of hustle culture. Life begins to pass us by, and we lose the ability to truly enjoy it.

When I was teaching, I often came home physically and emotionally depleted. I was overstimulated and under-replenished, which manifested as irritability, social withdrawal, and even a sense of dread. My relationships suffered, and more importantly, my overall well-being declined. I struggled to dream, to hope, and to find purpose in my future. Teaching is an incredibly meaningful profession, but I was too drained to appreciate that reality. Most days, I couldn’t even feel the pride that every educator should carry.

I knew I didn’t want to feel that way for the rest of my career. I wanted to experience fulfillment, optimism, peace, and joy. I craved the rush that comes with completing a creative project or delivering a beautiful photo gallery. I wanted to feel inspired again.

Beyond creative fulfillment, the flexibility of being an entrepreneur has been a massive reward. Setting my own schedule, taking personal days without worry, and attending appointments without stress have been life-changing. Ultimately, I feel free again, and that freedom is something I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.discoverdiss.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discoverdissphoto/

Image Credits

Kayla Disser, DBA DiscoverDiss