Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Bennett.
Hi Alexis, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Hey there! I’m Alexis Bennett, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to Alexis Lecurgo Photography, located in Toledo, Ohio. For the past eight years, I’ve been living my dream as a portrait photographer. It all started back in high school when I fell head over heels for this incredible art form. Since then, I’ve honed my skills even further at Owens Community College, specializing in weddings, boudoir, couples, and family portraits. I’m proud to say that I’ve become quite the expert in working with natural and studio lighting, which has earned me some fantastic awards and features in top-notch magazines. This last summer (2023), I opened my very own studio in Downtown Toledo, and it has definitely been one of my favorite success stories!
But you know what really lights up my world? It’s connecting with my clients, sharing laughter, and building friendships that go beyond the photo sessions. I truly believe that these connections are the heart and soul of what I do. When we create those genuine bonds, magic happens in front of the camera, and that’s when the most beautiful and authentic moments are captured. My clients’ happiness means the world to me, and I’m committed to delivering their cherished memories with all the creativity and timeliness they deserve.
Each day is a new opportunity for me to pour my passion into my work, weaving stories through my lens that resonate with hearts and stand the test of time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting my own photography business hasn’t been smooth sailing. It’s been a rollercoaster ride with its fair share of ups and downs. Trying to turn photography into my full-time gig has been tough, especially because some months are busier than others. Spring through mid-November is our crazy season with weddings, family shoots, and outdoor sessions. But when winter rolls around, things slow down as everyone gears up for the holidays, the weather gets colder, and winter depression kicks in, which is a big thing for small business owners. That is the time you start to second guess if you should continue your business or go back to a 9-5, and it takes a big toll on your mental health. What I have learned throughout the slow season is to take that time to update your website, rebuild your portfolio with what you have taken this past year, and update your prices. Take the winter months as your behind-the-scenes months and perfect it for a great start to the new year. Possibly doing model calls to do creative and fun ideas that you found or stepping your foot into trying something new.
Another big hurdle was getting my name out to the Toledo area. I had to hustle on social media, join local groups, and rely on friends and family to spread the word about my work. Sharing yourself on your page along with any fun audios you find on TikTok or Instagram Reels that relates to your work. Being funny, sharing behind the scenes from a session, sharing what you’re doing daily on your stories, and just being you! I have found that showing your clients your personality is why my clients choose me for all of their photo needs. You create these friendships that you cherish so much, and when it comes to their session, it doesn’t feel like work at all! It feels like you are hanging out with your friends and taking STUNNING photographs. I am someone who boosts people up, giving compliments throughout their entire session, helps boost their self-esteem, and they start to let loose and feel fantastic. When my clients leave their session with me, I want them to continue to feel on top of the world. The world can be such a cruel and depressing place, and if I can give someone 1 hour of positivity and self-love. I will. My clients tell me they love how upbeat and encouraging I am during their sessions. They even call me “Toledo’s Best Hype Woman”!
Learning the ropes of photography has been a journey in itself. I’m always tweaking my editing style and trying out new camera gear. Working with Lightroom brushes and finding what you like best for your images. Watching YouTube videos on what settings you should work with, shooting during golden hour, learning poses and editing techniques. You are never “done” learning; there is always something new added to the photography industry and new ways to edit!
In this creative field, being true to yourself is key. I believe success comes from staying authentic and never giving up. By spreading positivity and supporting other artists, I hope to make a lasting impact in the photography world.
In a nutshell, making it as a photographer takes persistence, creativity, and staying true to who you are. NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAM!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a natural light portrait photographer, I specialize in a range of sessions, including weddings, engagements, couples, families, portraits, and boudoir photography. I have been asked, “If you had to choose only three session types, what would you choose?” Weddings undoubtedly take the top spot for me. From meeting the couple, learning about their ideas for their wedding day, photographing their engagement, and capturing their excitement and love. Texts back and forth of ideas, meeting for their final meeting to create their timeline and their wedding day. Watching their dreams become a reality is honestly so magical to witness! Plus, I get to be there for it all! There’s something truly magical about being a part of a couple’s journey. I cherish with each wedding I photograph. It’s a joyous experience that I’m grateful to share with my clients.
Boudoir photography holds a special place in my heart as well. In a world where self-confidence can often waver, I’m privileged to uplift individuals and help them see themselves in a new light. Guiding them through poses and showering them with compliments creates an empowering atmosphere where they can truly embrace their beauty. Hearing their expressions of amazement and newfound confidence fills me with immense joy and reinforces the importance of this work. It still amazes me that I get to give them that confidence, and that’s something I wouldn’t trade for the world!
Lastly, capturing the love shared between couples is a source of endless inspiration for me. Having married my middle school sweetheart, I deeply understand the bond between two people in love. The genuine connection, shared laughter, and tender moments between couples during our sessions are incredibly rewarding to witness and document. It’s a privilege to play a part in immortalizing their love story and preserving memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime.
What sets me apart is not only my technical skill and creativity but also my genuine passion for uplifting and celebrating each individual I have the pleasure of photographing. I strive to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for my clients, ensuring they feel valued, confident, and truly seen in front of my lens.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck, whether good or bad, has played a significant role in shaping my journey as a photographer and business owner. While I can’t say I’ve encountered much in the way of bad luck in my business endeavors, I have faced challenges in finding a balance between work and personal life. For me, my business isn’t just a job—it’s a passion that consumes much of my time and energy. Learning to switch off from work and prioritize social relationships has been a learning curve, but one I’m actively addressing.
On the flip side, good luck has undoubtedly smiled upon me by allowing me to live out my dream as a photographer. Capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments and sharing them with the world brings immeasurable joy and fulfillment. Last summer, I had the incredible opportunity to open my own studio and host an open house, complete with giveaways from amazing local businesses. Building connections with fellow entrepreneurs has been invaluable as we support and uplift one another in our respective endeavors.
Overall, while luck certainly plays a role in life and business, I believe that seizing opportunities and cultivating meaningful relationships are key factors in achieving success and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alexislecurgophotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexislecurgophotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexislecurgo.photography
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexislecurgophotography888/about?app=desktop
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@alexislecurgophoto
