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

Alright, Lauren thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Alright, let’s jump into one of the most exciting parts of starting a new venture – how did you get your first client who was not a friend or family?

I’ll never forget the day I earned my first dollar as a photographer. Not from a friend, not from a cousin getting married, not even a friend-of-a-friend. This was a real client who didn’t know me, didn’t owe me anything, and paid me because they believed in my work.

I’d been building my portfolio for months, shooting for free, begging people to let me photograph their engagements, their kids, their dogs, whatever I could. I had an Instagram feed that was starting to look cohesive and a website I’d tweaked a hundred times.

One night, I got an email through my website contact form.
Subject line: “Family photos — availability?”

I opened it. It was a mom looking to get fall family photos done. She said she’d found me through a Facebook group post I had commented on. She had reviewed my website and liked the “natural, relaxed feeling” in my work. I remember crafting the most thoughtful, slightly over-eager reply ever. I offered her a few dates, explained my process, and held my breath.

She booked.
She paid.
She showed up.

Was I nervous? Absolutely. I over-packed my gear bag, double-checked my memory cards three times, and scouted the location like it was a wedding venue. But when I sent her the gallery two weeks later, she replied within hours, thanking me for the beautiful photos.

That first client was proof that someone outside my circle saw value in what I created. That moment gave me the fuel to keep going when things got slow, when I doubted myself, when imposter syndrome crept in.

I think every photographer remembers that first client like a first love! It’s unforgettable.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Lauren Turney is a Houston-based photographer specializing in clean, bright, and true-to-color imagery that captures genuine emotion and connection. I offer a range of photography services, including weddings, micro-weddings, elopements, headshots, and portrait sessions, all delivered with a natural, airy style. I got into photography through a deep appreciation for storytelling and a desire to preserve meaningful moments with authenticity and care. What sets me apart is not just my consistent, polished aesthetic but also the thoughtful, client-first experience I provide, from inquiry to final gallery. My work helps people feel comfortable in front of the camera while creating timeless images they’ll treasure forever. I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the opportunity to document moments that truly matter. Above all, I want potential clients to know that I’m more than just a photographer. I’m a calm, creative presence who is fully invested in capturing memories with heart and intention.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been a combination of word-of-mouth referrals and consistently showing up online with intentionality. Happy clients sharing their experiences, whether through reviews, tagging me on social media, or simply recommending me to friends and family, have brought in some of my most aligned and loyal clients. At the same time, maintaining a clean, cohesive online presence through my website and Instagram has helped attract new clients who connect with my style and personality before we even speak. I’ve also found that being clear about what I offer, what to expect, and showcasing real client work (with testimonials, behind-the-scenes, and final galleries) helps build trust early on. It’s not about chasing every lead, it’s about creating a brand and client experience that naturally attracts the right people.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my audience on social media has been a slow, organic process rooted in consistency, authenticity, and connection. In the beginning, I wasn’t focused on numbers, I was focused on showing up with purpose. I shared my work regularly, even when I didn’t feel 100% ready or “perfect,” and I made a point to tell the stories behind the photos: what the moment meant, how the client felt, or why it mattered to me. I engaged with other local creatives, celebrated my clients, and treated my captions like conversations rather than sales pitches. Over time, that built trust. One post would get shared, one happy client would tag me, and suddenly a whole new audience would discover my work. My advice to anyone just starting out is this: don’t try to go viral, try to be valuable. Share your process, your personality, and your passion. Focus less on followers and more on connecting with the people who are already there. And most importantly, post even when you feel small, because your consistency is what will make you visible.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.laurenturneyphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenturneyphoto
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/laurenturneyphotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurenturneyphotography/

Image Credits

Lauren Turney Photography