Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Leist.
Hi Megan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I think I’ve always known the deep importance of a photograph. One day, it may be all we have left of the people we love most. That realization is what sparked my passion for photography early on. I started taking photos of friends back in 2013, just for fun at first, but I quickly fell in love with it and wanted to do more.
In 2020, I officially launched Whispering Hope Imagery with a focus on families and couples. I felt drawn to the emotional connections between people and wanted to tell their stories in an authentic, meaningful way — not just with posed portraits, but with images that feel alive and full of heart.
For the first couple of years, I ran my business part-time while still learning and growing. I’m mostly self-taught, but I did invest in mentorships early on to help sharpen my skills and better serve my clients. When I started booking out months in advance, I knew it was time to go full time, and I haven’t looked back.
Today, I specialize in storytelling sessions for families and couples, including weddings. My work is raw, real, and emotional with bright, bold, true-to-color editing. I’m full-time now and so grateful to be doing what I love — capturing the beautiful, fleeting moments that mean everything.
And now, as I prepare to become a mama myself, I’m even more connected to the moments I capture. I understand more than ever how important it is to freeze time — to hold onto the smiles, snuggles, and chaos that make life so beautiful.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road, but every bump has shaped who I am today, both as a person and a photographer.
For a long time, I struggled with comparison. I’d look around at other photographers in my area and constantly doubt myself. I didn’t have much confidence when I started, and to be honest, some of the people closest to me didn’t either. I’ve been told I wasn’t good at it, that I wouldn’t make a career out of it, and that I’d never succeed.
But jokes on them, because here I am. 😉
Thankfully, I also had people in my corner who did believe in me. And most importantly, I know that the Lord gave me this passion and dream for a reason. It wasn’t random, it was placed in my heart with purpose.
Something my husband told me once has stuck with me through all the hard moments:
“If you give up now, it’s a guarantee that it’ll never happen. But if you keep pushing and keep trying, you absolutely will succeed. Prove them wrong, baby.”
That’s what kept me going—and still does.
We’ve been impressed with Whispering Hope Imagery, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Whispering Hope Imagery is all about capturing real emotion, honest connection, and the stories that make life meaningful. I specialize in families, couples, and weddings — offering both full sessions and minis to fit different needs and seasons of life.
What sets my brand apart is the experience I give my clients. I guide you through every step of your session so you’re never left wondering what to do. My approach is relaxed, laid back, and focused on making you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Clients always tell me how at ease they felt and how much they appreciated the direction, the sneak peeks, and the fast turnaround time.
I’m not about stiff poses, I’m about moments that make you feel something. I want my work to bring people back to the little in-between moments: a laugh, a glance, a hug you didn’t realize you needed captured.
Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is having the confidence to go full time with this. It’s something I once doubted was even possible, and now I get to live it every day, telling beautiful, meaningful stories for people who trust me to preserve their memories.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
To collaborate, I’m open to styled shoots, brand partnerships, or creating custom projects that showcase bold, meaningful stories.
Supporting me can be as simple as sharing my work on social media, referring friends and family, or booking sessions when you’re ready to capture your special moments.
I’m passionate about creating lasting memories and would love to connect with anyone who values genuine storytelling through photography.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://whisperinghopeimagery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whisperinghopeimagery?igsh=d3ducjE2dnRicmU5
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/156MPHDwyZL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
