Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Lisi.
Hi Olivia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I first picked up a camera in 2021 at just 12 years old, I was trying something new without really knowing where it would go. At the time, it was more of a casual hobby, and I was figuring everything out on my own. A lot of my early work wasn’t great, and it took time to understand what I was doing, but I stuck with it because I enjoyed it.
When I turned 15, that’s when things started to shift. I decided to take photography more seriously, I created an Instagram for my work, upgraded my camera, and started putting myself out there. That’s also when I began getting paid for shoots, which made everything feel more real and pushed me to hold myself to a higher standard.
Since then, I’ve had the chance to work with clients like Arthrex, FC Dallas, Western Oregon University, and National Charity League. I’ve also done a variety of shoots including sports, branding, maternity, and weddings, which has helped me grow and become more versatile.
From that point on, photography became more than just something I liked doing. It became something I was committed to. I started to take pride in my work, challenge myself more, and really focus on improving. It hasn’t been a perfect process, but figuring things out step by step is what got me to where I am now.
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?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I started photography at 15, and being so young made me constantly compare myself to older, more experienced photographers. At times, people didn’t take me seriously or view me as professional, which was discouraging. I felt like I always had to prove myself, and even giving 100% didn’t feel like enough.
As I’ve gotten older and more serious about it, a different kind of challenge came up – balance. There have been months where I’ve had more sessions than days in the month, sometimes shooting 40 sessions in a short period of time. That means late nights editing, little sleep, and constantly trying to keep up. It gets overwhelming, and there are times where it’s hard to live a normal teenage life or slow down at all.
But I’ve started to realize that those moments are shaping me. They’re teaching me discipline, time management, and how much I actually care about what I’m doing. It’s stressful, but it also shows me how dedicated I am and pushes me to grow into the kind of photographer I want to be.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I do both sports and portrait photography. I started with sports, shooting games and action shots, then decided to try portraits, which is what really helped my business grow. Now I feel confident in both and enjoy being able to switch between fast-paced environments and more personal, one-on-one sessions.
I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown and the opportunities I’ve gotten at a young age, especially working with clients from major businesses/teams. Those experiences pushed me to take myself more seriously and improve my work.
What sets me apart is that I can do both styles well and focus on capturing real moments, not just posed or basic shots. Whether it’s a game or a portrait session, I try to make each photo feel genuine and tell a story. I also put a lot of pressure on myself to keep improving, which has helped me grow quickly.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’d say don’t wait until you feel ready, because you probably never will. Just start and figure it out as you go. I’m still learning every day, and that’s part of what makes it worth it. Being young in this space can feel intimidating, but it also pushes you to grow faster than you think you can.
Don’t doubt yourself or your ability. I used to compare myself a lot, but I had a moment where I thought, “If I’m so far behind, how am I the youngest photographer in the stadium?” That really changed my mindset. It made me realize I was exactly where I needed to be, and that growth looks different for everyone.
Pricing:
- Standard Portrait Session – 45-60 minutes | 1-3 outfits | $100
- Standard Event Package – 1 hour of coverage | $100
- Silver Sports Coverage – 1 game | up to 6 athletes | $125
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Olivialisiphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_.throughlivslens
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_.throughlivslens
