Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Godfredson
Hi Leah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Photography found me at a time when I least expected it. I was on maternity leave from my job as a nurse when I scheduled a photoshoot for my newborn daughter. During that session, I was completely captivated—not just by the beautiful images she created, but by the entire experience of storytelling through photography. Something clicked, and I knew I had to explore it further.
What started as curiosity quickly turned into a passion. I learned everything I could, from lighting and composition to posing and client experience. In the beginning, I photographed everything—weddings, families, seniors, even funerals. Over time, I refined my focus, and in 2014, I shifted to high school senior portraits. Later, when I was able to open my own studio, I expanded into professional headshots and branding photography, allowing me to combine creativity with helping entrepreneurs and professionals elevate their personal brand.
Today, I specialize in headshots and personal branding, with a commitment to helping people feel seen, confident, and proud of how they present themselves. I also continue to photograph high school seniors. My business has grown through word of mouth, community involvement, and a dedication to creating an experience that makes my clients feel at ease in front of the camera.
Beyond photography, I’m passionate about changing the way people see themselves in photos. I hear clients say they aren’t photogenic or that they’ll schedule a session when they lose weight or feel younger. I want to show them that they are worthy of being seen and celebrated exactly as they are.
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful every day that I get to do what I love while making a difference in how people see themselves.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building this business has been anything but a smooth road. As a mom of four, I had to balance growing my photography career while raising a family, often working late nights and early mornings to make it all work. I was determined to grow my business without going into debt, which meant being resourceful, learning as I went, and reinvesting every dollar wisely.
On top of that, I moved across the country and back, each time having to restart my business from the ground up—rebuilding my client base, making new connections, and reestablishing my reputation in a new market.
Beyond the creative side of photography, I had to teach myself everything from bookkeeping to marketing, sales, and customer service. None of it came naturally, but through persistence, trial and error, and a lot of hard work, I’ve been able to build a thriving business that I’m proud of. Every challenge along the way has made me a stronger entrepreneur and a better photographer.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a portrait photographer specializing in personal branding and high school senior portraits. My work is all about helping people feel confident in front of the camera and creating images that authentically represent who they are. I work with professionals—small business owners, realtors, executives—who need high-quality branding images to elevate their presence. I also love photographing high school seniors, capturing this milestone in a way that celebrates their unique personalities and achievements.
What sets me apart is my ability to put people at ease. So many clients come in feeling nervous or convinced they aren’t photogenic, but I guide them through every step—helping with wardrobe, posing, and expression—so they leave feeling empowered and loving their images. I also bring a deep understanding of personal branding to my work, ensuring my clients’ photos not only look great but also serve a purpose in representing their business and brand.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact my work has on people’s confidence. I love seeing a client’s reaction when they realize how great they can look in a photo. I also take pride in running a business that has grown through genuine relationships and community involvement. Photography isn’t just about taking pictures for me—it’s about telling stories, capturing milestones, and helping people see themselves in a new, positive way.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is connecting with people—whether it’s through my photography, my community involvement, or simply building relationships with those around me.
Beyond my business, I find joy in being involved in the San Antonio community. As an active member and a committee chairperson in my local chamber of commerce, I love supporting other small business owners. I’m also a member of the San Antonio Mastersingers and serve on the Board of Directors. Music has always been a passion of mine, and being part of this incredible choir allows me to contribute to the arts while connecting with others who share a love for music. I’m grateful to be able to give back in ways that help others grow.
This year is especially meaningful as I celebrate 20 years in business. Looking back at how far I’ve come—from starting as a new mom with a camera to building a full-time photography studio—fills me with pride and gratitude. I love what I do, and I’m motivated to keep growing, evolving, and making an impact in the lives of others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://leahgodfredson.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahgodfredsonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeahGodfredsonPhotography
- LinkedIn: http://LeahGodfredson.com
