Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lela Dishman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Lela, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

After four years of running my photography business, I felt a deep desire to have my own studio space. I had started my journey as an outdoor, natural light photographer, mainly working with families. Many clients would ask me to photograph their newborns—a task that was both exciting and intimidating. I dove into learning natural light newborn photography but quickly realized I preferred the consistency and control of studio lighting.

I invested in a strobe lighting kit, and soon my family’s living room was completely taken over by setups. The desire for a dedicated creative space grew stronger. I explored all kinds of ideas—from shed studios to shared spaces—but my budget for this next step was limited. I sought advice from creative communities, hoping for guidance, but received mixed responses. Many urged caution, emphasizing the financial weight of running a storefront.

Despite the doubts and risks, my heart’s desire won out. In 2019, I took the leap and opened my own storefront studio in downtown Monticello, Kentucky. It was a bold step, but it gave me the space to create freely, serve my clients more professionally, and grow my business in ways I had only dreamed of.

Lela, 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 Lela Dishman, I am the owner of Lela Dishman Portraits, based in Monticello, Kentucky. My journey into photography began with a passion for capturing authentic moments through images. Like many photographers, my love for the craft started with my own family—I found joy in photographing my growing children.

In early 2015, someone asked me to photograph their wedding, which inspired me to create a Facebook page to reach potential clients. My first paying clients were expecting parents seeking maternity portraits. Soon after, I was asked to photograph their newborn baby, which set me on a path of learning and growth that continues to this day.

Since then, I have had the honor of photographing countless families, documenting some of their most cherished moments. I’ve been privileged to share in new births, celebrate milestones, and create multi-generational family portraits—treasured keepsakes that families can pass down through the years. Every session is an opportunity to capture the beauty of life’s fleeting moments, and it’s a privilege to help families preserve memories they will hold dear forever.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

This is a very personal one for me because of my faith. As a believer, I strive to keep biblical principles at the center of both my life and my business. I’ve found that many simple yet profound lessons in leadership, integrity, and service can be drawn from scripture. For me, faith and truth have been the guiding factors in how I manage my business, make decisions, and interact with clients. They remind me to lead with honesty and to treat everyone with respect.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One year after opening my studio, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Like many small businesses, I was forced to temporarily close my doors, and the uncertainty was overwhelming.

However, I knew I had to adapt to survive. I quickly shifted to creative outdoor (and distanced) alternatives to continue serving my clients. It wasn’t easy—there were setbacks, financial strain, and moments of doubt—but the experience taught me to be resourceful, patient, and resilient.

By staying committed and finding new ways to connect with clients, I was able to not only sustain my business but come out stronger. That challenging period reinforced the importance of adaptability and perseverance in business and showed me that even in unexpected circumstances, creativity, determination, and faith can carry you through.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.leladishmanportraits.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leladishmanportraits/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leladishmanportraits/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lela-dishman-portraits-monticello?msockid=22b44cde0fb3612d0b8543a70e1b60f1

Image Credits

Photographer :Lela Dishman