Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Shisler.
Hi Erika, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into photography began at the University of Michigan, where my first class—and the darkroom tucked in the basement of my dorm—completely pulled me in. I fell in love with the process: the quiet, the precision, the magic of watching an image appear.
After graduating, I moved to Santa Barbara, where I improvised darkrooms in apartment laundry rooms and bathrooms, determined to keep creating. That drive carried me through a four-month backpacking trip across Europe and eventually into a specialized photography program that deepened both my technical skills and artistic voice.
From there, I moved to Los Angeles and stepped into the world of commercial photography. In LA, I stepped into the world of commercial photography, assisting on major productions and working across fashion, advertising, and automotive campaigns. The hours were long and often relentless—but I thrived in that environment. I learned how to move fast, adapt quickly, and show up at a high level, day after day. At the same time, like many creatives, I had to push through the challenge of believing in my own work enough to promote it.
Along the way, I found myself in unforgettable moments—on set at Tom Petty’s home in Malibu, catching rebounds for Steph Curry during a commercial shoot, and working on one of David Bowie’s final music videos.
Later, I relocated to Dallas, where I continued shooting while also pursuing a lifelong goal: teaching. I earned my certification and spent five years teaching middle school in DISD, an experience that sharpened my ability to connect with people of all ages.
Today, I’m a full-time photographer based in Dallas, specializing in portraits of fashion models, children, and business professionals. My work is rooted not just in technical experience, but in a lifelong curiosity about people—their energy, their individuality, and the stories they carry.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
From carrying the weight of significant student loans to thriving through demanding production schedules and finding the confidence to promote my work, the challenges have shaped both my career and my voice.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a Dallas-based commercial and portrait photographer specializing in fashion, kids, and lifestyle imagery. My work spans everything from branding and headshots to environmental portraits and high school seniors, families and talent portfolios, allowing me to work with a wide range of clients and stories. I focus on creating work that feels both energetic and authentic—images that have a strong visual presence but still feel human and real. I’m comfortable working both on location and in the studio, creating a relaxed, easygoing experience for everyone involved.
I’m especially known for how I connect with people on set. Whether it’s experienced models, business professionals, or kids with big personalities, I’m able to create an environment where people feel comfortable, which translates directly into the final image.
What I’m most proud of is the range of my experience—from working on large-scale commercial productions in Los Angeles to building a career on my own terms in Dallas, and even stepping away to teach for five years. That path has shaped how I work: adaptable, grounded, and focused on people.
What sets me apart is a combination of high-level production experience and genuine connection. I understand how to operate on a professional set, move efficiently, and deliver strong results—but I also bring an energy that helps people relax and be themselves. That balance is where my best work comes from.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
There are so many people who have played a role in my path. My family deserves credit for not completely discouraging my artistic direction.
During photo school, I was fortunate to learn from professors and be surrounded by peers who pushed me to grow, refine my eye, and take my work seriously. That foundation carried into my time in Los Angeles, where a few incredible photographers I assisted under had a lasting impact. They showed me what it really means to operate at a high level—how to run a set, solve problems quickly, and stay focused under pressure.
Today, my biggest supporters are my husband and kids.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.erikaanne.com and www.erikashisler.com
- Instagram: @erikaannephoto
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-shisler-01365171/
