Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Lan.
Hi Stacy, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My journey as a photographer was inspired by my dad. He was a passionate hobbyist who loved taking photos for me and my friends. After he passed away, I looked at his collection of camera equipment and thought, “Why not give photography a shot?” So, I decided to pick up his treasured camera and lenses and see what I could do!
While I had dabbled in a few classes, it was the pandemic that provided the perfect time to delve deep into the technical intricacies of cameras—ISO, speed, aperture, and the nuances of different lenses. I watched a lot of online tutorials and practiced portrait photography with my husband, who was very supportive and a very patient model!
In 2021, I finally decided to start an Instagram account, initially offering free sessions to friends. Leveraging my background in PR and communications, I strategically built a client base, eventually securing my first paying client—and Stacy Lan Photography was born!
Since then, I’ve slowly grown my client base through referrals, social media, blogging, and other marketing tactics. I also gained exposure through article features, such as a proposal idea story on Brides of North Texas. Now, I’m consistently booking clients, and I can’t help but think of how proud my dad would be of me for carrying on his photography legacy.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Overall, building my business has been a surprisingly smoother journey than I expected. However, there were the typical growing pains in the early stages, where I grappled with refining my photography skills and gaining confidence behind the camera. This involved not just mastering the technical aspects but also understanding the art of posing and effectively engaging with clients. I wanted to learn how to best interact with them during a session to make them look and feel their best.
Beyond that, I also built up the business side of things, including setting up a website, finding the right CRM and photo gallery platforms, and deciding my pricing and packages for profitability. Additionally, I looked for ways to establish my brand and actively promote myself as a photographer. There was and is still a lot to learn as I evolve my business.
As I reflect back, I see how much growth I’ve experienced along this journey. For me, it’s all about enjoying the photography process, having fun with it, and focusing on learning something new every day!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Dallas portrait photographer who’s passionate about documenting beautiful, genuine, and vibrant moments that you will cherish forever. From capturing seniors who are graduating to those who are proposing to their significant other, I find so much joy in preserving celebratory memories.
I am incredibly thankful for the clients who entrust me to capture their milestones. It’s an honor to be part of these significant moments in their lives. Along the way, I’ve had the pleasure of making some amazing new friends who come back again and again for their photography needs!
Each session is also an opportunity for me to play with different lighting and angles to bring out the unique aspects of each shoot. Experimenting with composition and finding fun poses allow me to also add an extra layer of creativity to my work, ensuring that each photo is as distinctive as the moment it captures.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Anyone who is looking for a portrait photographer in the Dallas area can reach out through my contact info below to book a session or learn more about me and my services! You can also support me by following my Instagram page.
Contact Info:
- Email: stacylanphotography@gmail.com
- Website: www.stacylanphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/stacylanphotography
Image Credits
Stacy Lan Photography
