Conversations with Leianna Boenke

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leianna Boenke.

Hi Leianna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in the metro-Atlanta, and my passion for people and culture led me to study Cultural Anthropology and Photojournalism at Portland State University. My education gave me the tools to not only document stories, but also to understand them in a deeper, more human way.

My photography career began somewhat unexpectedly. After becoming a mother, I purchased my first ‘professional grade’ camera and started sharing personal photos online. Soon after, friends and family began asking me to capture their family milestones. By 2013, I was photographing weddings, and over time what started as a side passion grew into a full-time career.

In 2021, I opened Rising Woman Boudoir, a studio designed to create a safe, empowering space for women to embrace their individuality and bodies exactly as they are. That work opened the door for me to collaborate with nonprofits and grassroots organizations, using my photography to amplify social and political issues and give voice to underrepresented communities, specifically women and the immigrant community.

Today, my focus is on the intersection of art and activism. I see photography as both a creative outlet and a tool for change—whether it’s celebrating personal milestones or shedding light on the struggles and resilience of marginalized groups. For me, the ultimate goal has always been to create meaningful work that inspires connection and makes an impact.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has definitely not been smooth. Early in my son’s life, I was a single mother working multiple jobs just to stay afloat. For the first several years of my photography career, I had very little time or energy to invest fully in my art. On top of that, I’ve endured domestic violence, periods of depression and anxiety, and my fair share of imposter syndrome. For a long time, I also fell into the trap of hustle culture—pushing myself to exhaustion, constantly comparing myself to other photographers, and feeling pressure to chase trends just to keep up.

Over time, I realized that way of working wasn’t sustainable and it wasn’t true to me. Now, I keep my blinders on and stay focused on my own path. I don’t compare myself to others or chase what’s popular—I stay rooted in my style and the values behind my work. I’ve also accepted that not every client is my client, and that’s okay. What matters most to me is providing a high-quality, meaningful service while protecting my dignity and integrity as an artist.

My personal experiences with domestic violence, depression, and anxiety have also shaped the heart of my work. They’ve put me in a position where I can connect with and support women who may be going through similar struggles. Creating a safe and empowering space, whether in my studio or through community work, feels like part of my purpose, and it’s one of the most meaningful aspects of what I do.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work lives at the intersection of artistry and advocacy. While I photograph a range of subjects, I’ve become most passionate about creating empowering portraits- particularly through my studio, Rising Woman Boudoir. It’s not just a place for photographs; it’s a space designed for women to show up as themselves, without apology, where they can shed toxic beliefs about themselves and embrace their self-love journey. For some clients, it’s a confidence-building experience, for others it’s healing, and I don’t take that lightly. Rising Woman represents all women- in all walks of life.

At the same time, my work extends outside the studio into the community. I’ve partnered with nonprofits and local organizations to document stories that raise awareness about social issues and highlight voices that are often overlooked. In both spaces (personal and political) I try to create images that hold meaning and tell the truth of someone’s experience.

What I’m most proud of is that my photography has impact beyond the surface. I want people to walk away from working with me not just with beautiful images, but with a renewed sense of self, dignity, and human connection. I think what sets me apart is that I’m not chasing the next trend or trying to be everything to everyone. My focus is on authenticity, intention, and creating work that matters.

How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t a finish line- it’s a practice. I don’t think there will ever be a moment where I declare, “I’ve made it.” Instead, I see success in the milestones and small victories along the way. It looks like creating meaningful work, providing my clients with an experience that makes them feel valued, and knowing that my art is making a difference in someone’s life.

I also define success by the freedom it allows me: the ability to create on my own terms, to slow down and enjoy mornings in my garden, to spend time with my family, and to pour into my community. Success, for me, is less about accolades and more about alignment. If I can say that I am staying true to my vision, my values, and my integrity as an artist- I will consider myself successful.

Pricing:

• Boudoir Portraits starting at $570
• Wedding Packages starting at $1800
• Lifestyle Portraits starting at $350
• Event Photography starting at $400

Contact Info:

• Website: risingwomanboudoir@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/risingwomanboudoir
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/risingwomanboudoir
• Other: https://leibphoto.com