We recently connected with Laurie of Lauren Elisabeth Photography and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Laurie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How has Covid changed your business model?
Prior to the pandemic, my focus was on photographing events. I specialized in large, multi-day events – such as conventions, corporate expos and retreats, and big family events. That all came to a screeching halt in March of 2020, which made me really rethink how I wanted to approach my business. I ended up changing the name of business (formerly Luxe Event Photography) to reflect my focus. I’ve shifted from primarily events to photographing portraits and fashion, and I’m even finding a small niche as a pet photographer. And frankly, I’m much happier doing it. Especially after the isolation of Covid lockdowns, it’s nice to be able to work with people in more personal situations. I feel like it’s bringing the human connection back to my work which creates a more creative environment for me.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’ve been a photographer for nearly all of my life. I started taking pictures in high school and really never stopped. My work varies from portraits to e-commerce and fashion to pet photography and small personal events. Every job is an opportunity to push myself creatively – whether that is with lighting or finding focus in the smaller details that are often overlooked. I want to create unique images for my clients that show the personality in their images.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
Referrals.
Recently, I did a session for a friend and the images from that session got me bookings for similar portrait sessions with new clients. I use social media, but I find it can be too unfocused and hit or miss these days. There’s too much out there and it can be overwhelming for potential clients to scroll through. But when you have someone you trust telling a new client “hey, this person is great” then I think it’s more likely you’ll to get the gig.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
There are actually two different parts of the process that I love the most. The first is the planning – working with other creatives to design and produce a shoot. I get a rush out of sessions when everyone is contributing and bouncing ideas off of each other. The other part is after it’s all done. Hearing the feedback from clients when they see the finished images. There’s nothing like getting that call or email telling you they love the results and knowing you helped to bring some beauty into someone else’s life.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://laurenelisabeth.net
- Instagram: @laurenelisabethphoto
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LaurenElisabethPhotography
- Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenelisabethphotography/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lauren-elisabeth-photography-los-angeles-3?osq=lauren+elisabeth+photography