Today we’d like to introduce you to Lyndsey Sayles
Hi Lyndsey, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love for photography? Totally my dad’s fault! Ted Wright—photographer, artist, all-around creative genius—passed down his magic. As a kid, I’d watch him work his superpower: finding the perfect angle, setting the scene, guiding a model into a jaw-dropping pose, or using props to add that extra bit of magic. Honestly, it was like watching an artist paint with light.
Fast forward a bit, and surprise, surprise—I was the kid who *always* had a camera in hand. I started with those classic point-and-shoot film cameras (ah, the nostalgia!). There was just something about the thrill of capturing a moment that made my heart happy. Then came the game-changer—my boyfriend (now husband) gifted me my first DSLR, and BOOM! Obsession unlocked. No more waiting for film to develop; I could see my shots instantly! It was like discovering a whole new world, and I dove in headfirst.
My first models? My incredibly patient friends and family (seriously, bless them). They let me experiment, grow, and learn. And eventually, with a *gentle* push from my husband, I took the leap and started charging for sessions. They say the rest is history—haha!
For 13 amazing years, I built my photography business in Nashville, capturing weddings, families, and high school seniors. I thought Nashville would be home forever, but life had other plans. In 2023, we had the chance to move back to St. Louis where I grew up, all of my family is here, and we jumped at it. And honestly? BEST. DECISION. EVER. Even a year and a half later, I still find myself smiling at how right it feels to be back.
Now, I get to work with the most incredible couples as they plan their weddings. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a 300+ guest extravaganza, every wedding has its own unique magic. But the absolute best part? When couples truly *value* photography and the memories it creates. That’s when the magic really happens.
My secret superpower? Making people feel totally comfortable in front of the camera. A little direction, a few fun prompts, and before they know it, they’re laughing, being themselves, and completely forgetting the camera is even there. And that’s when the *real* moments happen—the ones that last a lifetime. 💛
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Haha, if the road were smooth, where’s the fun in that?
Running a business comes with its fair share of challenges—no matter how many years you’ve been at it. And let’s be real, it’s so easy to get distracted by everything happening in the world.
At first, my biggest hurdle was simply having the confidence to charge for my work. Then came the nerve-wracking step of raising my prices. I mean, if I could do this for free every day, I totally would… but, well, a girl’s got bills.
Next, I had to lock in my editing style—something consistent, so my clients knew exactly what to expect. And then there’s the ongoing beast: marketing. Starting a business is one thing, but getting your name out there? That can feel like swimming upstream in a rushing river. But you keep going. You make small gains, celebrate the wins (no matter how tiny), learn from the losses, and pivot when needed. That’s just part of the adventure. 😊
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a photographer specializing in capturing your memories to last a lifetime. While I work with a lot of couples planning their weddings, I love all areas of photography. If it’s your puppy, your high school senior, extended family, or a boudoir session… when you have a memory or event you’d like captured, I want to be the photographer you call.
My secret sauce is how I make my clients feel during their session. They relax quickly because I walk them through the process. I am the professional.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I am a very positive spirit who will always find the good/joy/light in a situation, even in the dark times. I know that those feelings are felt by those that work with me.
Pricing:
- My website has the most current pricing for collections.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lsaylesphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndseysaylesphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lyndseysaylesphotography/
