Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Wells.
Leslie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My passion for photography started at a very young age. When I was little, I remember looking through photo albums both at home and at my grandmother’s house. I liked the stories that came along with the photographs as I thumbed through them. They had a special place in my heart.
When my parents divorced, this was the one thing, that when divided, I could feel the heartache from. I’m not sure if it was the actual prints, or the memories I felt that pull from, either way, it was there. After that, I don’t remember very many photos for a year or two, could be because I was so young and just don’t remember them, or just that not many photos were taken. Then, it made it’s way back into my memories. When it did, I really enjoyed it.
It wasn’t like it is now, with a camera with us at all times on our phones. They came out on special occasions.
Looking back, I now realize that these moments and memories are what shaped my passion. What started this love and later lead me down this path as a photographer. That, and becoming a mother. I wanted to be the one to capture special times and memories for others to have, like I was doing for my own family.
Great, 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?
As with my life, I feel like my photography journey has had both smooth and bumpy roads. I have met so many wonderful families, that I now call friends. They have encouraged me along the way in so many different ways, I’m not even sure if some of them realize it or not.
Of course, there have been bumpy roads as well. When they come, as hard as it can sometimes be, I try to put my best foot forward and rely on colleagues and friends to get me through. I’m so thankful to have a group I feel like I can go to during these times. They continue to help me along this path.
Leslie Wells Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I began taking portraits of so many different groups, this included but definitely wasn’t limited to newborns, children, couples, families, engagements, mini sessions, a wedding here or there, etc. I had a hard time narrowing it down because I can be indecisive in general and I really enjoyed each of them for different reasons.
Today though, I feel as if my primary focus has evolved into specializing in children. I was a teacher formerly, so I have always loved working with them. Then once my own daughters came, of course, that passion for capturing them grew even further.
I feel like it can be difficult for me to set myself apart from other photographers, especially when everything has been done before and there are so many of us. I personally try to set myself apart by not only going to a variety of different locations, along with using simple props, but also by trying to capture true reactions. I like to get down to their level and play with the kids. I talk with them and want them to feel comfortable with me. I can always tell if I have inadvertently skipped this step. It really is an important one, letting them know that they are the reason I am there.
I think I tend to be known for my mini sessions. The themes vary from simple and elegant, in a peach orchard or lavender field, to a more complex set up involving using my props, adding beautiful flowers, and of course the occasional animal. They are quick and fun. Just about the right amount of time for a child’s attention span.
What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
My proudest moment in this career so far has been the journeys that I have documented for others. I have certain albums that I will look through and just smile. The moments and special occasions that I have captured for them, the memories that they will always have are now documented for them to share. It really is a great feeling knowing I did this for them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lesliewellsphotography.com
- Email: lesliewellsphotos@gmail.com
- Instagram: @LeslieWellsPhotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lesliewellsphotography
Image Credit:
Rachel Nix
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