We’re looking forward to introducing you to Esther Lee. Check out our conversation below.
Esther, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Normal looks different depending on the day. Sometimes it’s matcha, emails, the gym, and catching up with friends before I dive into editing. Other days, it’s an airport run and a camera in my hand for a destination wedding.
Honestly, I kind of love organized chaos—it keeps life interesting!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Esther, a wedding and couples photographer based in St. Louis, though my camera often takes me to mountains, beaches, and beyond. My brand is all about balancing romantic storytelling with a sense of adventure.
I’m especially drawn to the in-between moments and the little details couples may miss in the moment but love reliving later. Recently I’ve added content creation alongside photography, because to me weddings aren’t only about the big polished moments but also the many unscripted ones that make the day unforgettable!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is my dad. He’s a jack of all trades and somehow a master of all. I’ve always struggled to pick just one path, but he showed me that if you love everything you do, you can do it all well. He’s a VP at a huge tech company, teaches at universities, makes and sells artwork, and is an amazing dad. I hope to do the same, running my photography business, building new projects, and being there for the people I love.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell myself that what you do and the thoughtful way you treat others matters more than you realize. I’ve had clients tell me they’ve never felt more confident and beautiful, that I captured the last photo they had with their grandpa, or that I inspired them to launch their own business.
At weddings, I often hear that seeing my reassuring smile throughout the day made them feel at ease. Experiencing this now has shown me how powerful small gestures can be, and I wish I could have known that I was already making a meaningful impact, even at a young age.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I love that social media lets clients get a feel for who I am and how I work. I want people to feel connected to their photographer, so I share talking videos, day-in-the-life clips, and behind-the-scenes moments. Not everything makes it online, but I try to keep it real. Since I started doing this, I’ve attracted clients who click with me, refer their friends, and best of all, laugh at my jokes (lol)!
I think any photographer who shows up authentically will naturally draw in the people who really enjoy working with them. 10/10 would recommend.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Oh yes, this is totally my thing. I have no shame in being a lover of life. When a client signs their wedding contract, I literally jump up and down. When I show up to shoot at a dream venue, I’m grinning from ear to ear. Life is too short not to celebrate your wins, big or small, and that’s exactly how I stay motivated and excited about the work I love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://estherlens.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/estherlens
Image Credits
Esther Lens Photography
