Life & Work with Leah Ellis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Ellis.

Leah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi, my name is Leah Ellis. I am the owner and only photographer of Leah Ellis Photography.

My story didn’t start like many others in this business. Actually not even a little bit. You see, I never pictured my life without a basketball or softball in my hand. That was until I got pregnant at 16 in 2012 with my son Bentley. With scholarships on the line, I decided I would be a mother first. I got homeschooled, I graduated, and I moved out. I was a mother first. I always will be. It is the most important role I will ever have.

Becoming a mother I found myself taking way more pictures than before. 46353797 of the same pose as my son B. It explains my habit of overshooting today. In 2016, I had my daughter Hadley when I got my first real camera, a Canon Rebel. I was constantly snapping pictures of them together in the yard or at the playground.

Fast forward to January 2018, I escaped an abusive marriage. I left many things behind that day, including my camera. To me, I had what mattered most. Safety for myself and my babies.

Today in 2022, I am married to my best friend Kyle Ellis who never stops supporting me and helps me chase my dreams. When I am not behind my camera, we are probably at a practice of some sort or game for Bentley and Hadley. With our little Riley Robert as my sidekick.

I am a very firm believer that our Lord entrusts each and every person with gifts and talents to use for his glory. My past and what has led me back to photography is me living that out in his name.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think the hardest struggle was tackling photography and immediately putting myself out there after not owning a camera for a few years. The photography industry is saturated with very talented photographers.

I am still perfecting my editing style as I am an up-and-coming photographer. My clients, my family, and my friends have been so supportive this far and pushing me to be my absolute best. It’s essential to have support when running a business.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a wedding and lifestyle photographer. I photograph seniors, families, couples, weddings, etc. My goal is that my images would reflect the depth of each person that steps in front of my lens – the deep joy, hardship, and love that has made them the person they are today. More than anything, I love the opportunity to be in their world for a moment. It truly is a privilege. I specialize in bringing a laidback and fun atmosphere to every shoot.

Your professional loud hype woman when needed. I’ve been known as the chaos coordinator. My relationships truly set me apart. People book with me because it’s me. I show up raw, real, and my authentic self. For that reason, I will forever be thankful to be let into their lives. To capture memories that mean the most to them, the moments they can feel years down the road.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/leahellisphotography