Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Gibson
Hi Alyssa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My passion for photography began in high school, but I think the seed was planted much earlier. My grandmother, who passed away in 2022 after her battle with cancer, was the family’s unofficial photographer, always capturing memories at every event. I feel like my love for the camera stems from her in many ways. Back in high school, I was always recording moments with friends, making videos, and documenting our lives long before it was called “content creation.” I was known for having a camera in hand at school, and my friends loved the videos I made. Every year, I would beg my dad for a new camera, striving to get better and improve my craft.
Eventually, I expanded into YouTube, creating vlogs that captured the essence of my life and those around me. In 2021, a pivotal moment came when I did a spontaneous photo shoot with a friend in her bedroom. That experience made me realize just how much I loved capturing moments and telling stories through my lens. Later that year, I bought my first professional camera, a Canon 90D, and started photographing friends and family to refine my skills. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to building my brand and growing my photography business.
Today, my business is thriving and continues to grow. I have clients who book regularly and genuinely love my services, which motivates me to keep pushing my creative boundaries. I’m always surprising myself with my potential, and my photography has evolved from a beloved hobby into a serious, professional venture. What drives me is the belief that photos are timeless, even though people are not. It meant a lot to connect with my grandmother through our shared love of cameras and making memories. I want my photography to freeze moments that bring joy and create lasting memories. While I’ve also dabbled in videography, my true passion lies in capturing the genuine expressions of families, artists, and individuals, and helping businesses bring their visions to life. To hone my skills further, I even ventured into newborn photography at hospitals, embracing every opportunity to practice and grow.
I graduated high school in 2011, and since 2021, I’ve been nurturing my business with the hope that one day it will grow into a full-fledged studio and photography company. I’m proud of the brand I’ve built and excited for the opportunities ahead as I continue to turn moments into memories that last a lifetime.
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?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, and I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. One of the biggest struggles has been balancing my job and personal life while trying to build my photography business. There have been countless late nights editing photos even when I’m exhausted, and moments when inquiries don’t turn into bookings, which can be disheartening. The journey has been full of ups and downs, from staying motivated to consistently finding ways to improve my craft and better serve my clients.
One of the hardest parts is waking up every day and believing in myself, trusting that one day I’ll be the well-known photographer I dream of becoming. Running a business, especially one like photography, isn’t easy or cheap—it demands dedication, consistency, and resilience. It takes showing up for yourself every day, investing in your vision, and pushing through the doubt when the dream feels just out of reach. But I keep reminding myself that success is on its way, and with each new challenge, I grow stronger and more determined.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a dedicated photographer who specializes in portraits, maternity shoots, and event photography. Over the years, I’ve become known for capturing authentic moments and translating them into stunning images that tell a story. One of the things I’m most proud of is how much my skill has grown—from shooting simple moments with friends to executing creative visions that continue to surpass my own expectations.
What sets me apart from other photographers is my attention to detail and my unique perspective. I strive to see and capture moments differently than most, bringing a fresh approach that evokes emotion and tells a deeper story. I love the look of shock and happiness on my clients’ faces when they see their final images and realize I’ve exceeded their expectations. It’s those moments that drive me to keep creating and pushing the boundaries of my craft.
As for what I’m known for, I’d say it’s my ability to make people feel at ease in front of the camera, resulting in natural and genuine images. Clients often mention that they appreciate how I capture their true selves and deliver photos that tell a story they can cherish forever.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is that breaking away from societal norms and taking risks to pursue your dreams is not just necessary, but fulfilling. Sticking to a routine 9-5 job and following what others expect of you might feel safe, but betting on yourself and chasing what truly makes you feel alive is incomparable. Sometimes, it means making sacrifices like skipping a night out to afford a new lens or saving up for that strobe light. These choices might seem difficult in the moment, but they’re easier to make when you know you’re investing in your own growth and future.
I’ve learned that even when society or loved ones have their own vision of what you should do, it’s essential to stay true to yourself and your happiness. Making sacrifices and taking risks to build my brand and business has added so much value to my life. It’s this mindset that keeps me motivated and reminds me that investing in myself is always worth it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lyssalens.com
- Instagram: Lyssalens
Image Credits
All photos were shot and edited by the photographer Alyssa Gibson LyssaLens Photography
