We had the good fortune of connecting with Lesley Nelson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lesley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting in middle school with a trusty disposable camera (omg and that horrendous wait to get them developed!), then graduating to a hot pink digital Canon in highschool, I’ve always been the friend with the camera. When I graduated, I got a Best Buy credit card for the sole purpose of buying my first DSLR, a Canon Rebel (I had no patience or money to save ha!). Over the years, I’ve self-taught everything from camera settings to Lightroom presets, and I’m still learning all the time. I’m so thankful to have friends and family (including 2 cute models of my own) to allow me to capture important moments of their lives as I begin this journey of my photography business.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The world of photography/photographers can definitely feel overwhelming, especially in a society where social media and pictures are so prominent. I think instead of playing the comparison game, I really try to focus on how I can stand out, which I think is where my personality comes in. Being comfortable with a photographer is going to result in more candid, transparent photos, so my goal is to make anyone I photograph feel like I’m a friend, or even better, not even there! I’m still new to all of this, and to me that’s exciting! Seeing how my business will evolve, plus meeting new people and telling their stories through my photos is something I enjoy beyond words.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many fun areas in Houston! I love how each one is different, whether its Eado, the Heights, or Downtown, they all have such a different vibe. I think we would probably start exploring my side of town Garden Oaks/Oak Forest, and grab brunch and coffee at Sunday Press or Slowpokes then head to Walking Stick and Great Heights Brewery. Stomping Grounds is just down the street for the kids to burn some energy on the turf, dinner and drinks at LuLoo’s and a little sugar rush at Fat Cat ice cream. I recently went to the Toasted Coconut for brunch and it was so fun (hello specialty cocktails!), so I would definitely take them there and plan a day to explore Montrose. I wouldn’t want them to miss out on Rodeo Goat, Truckyard, 8th Wonder, or Nancy’s Hustle, so I’d make sure to have a day dedicated to my old stomping grounds of Eado. 

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom and husband are the first people that immediately come to mind. My mom is truly the strongest, kindest, most loyal person I’ve ever known. She has always been the one I call for a pep talk or honest opinion (or a glass of wine). And the fact she still loves me after my teenage years, shows just what an amazing human she really is!

And my husband has consistently supported and encouraged me through even my craziest ideas. When I told him I wanted to start building a business, on top of a full-time job and 2 kids, he asked why I didn’t do it sooner. He has constantly been my cheerleader and to feel that support has honestly been what has made me believe I can do this.

Website: https://lovelightphotography1175.pixieset.com/portfolio/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelightphotography_/

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