Rising Stars: Meet Heidi Lyons

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heidi Lyons. 

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always had a love for photography and taking photos. I started getting more serious about my photography in 2009 when I took all the photography classes my OSU campus offered. I fell in love and got my first “real” camera in 2010. From there, my photography journey was just capturing as many moments of my kiddos and family as I could. I slowly started branching out and photographing my friends and their friends. In 2016 I photographed my first wedding! It was so nerve-wracking and exciting all at the same time. It was at this time I knew this was something I was passionate about and wanted to make a career out of it. I am so thankful for the friends and family around me throughout my entire photography career cheering me on and believing in me and supporting me! In 2017 I quit my banking career and really started to focus on my business. Over the years my photography business has been growing into what it is now. I love ALL forms of photography and portraits but I wouldn’t be telling the truth if I didn’t say Newborns have my heart. There is something so special about those first few days and weeks after a new baby is born, and love to capture those moments that people will cherish forever. 

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?
The biggest struggle I have faced throughout my photography career has definitely been during 2020. My business was just starting to really take off in the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020. So, to have all the momentum building and feel like it hit a brick wall felt really discouraging. I was able to do so many outdoor shoots in 2020 and that was what saved me! 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
There are so many talented photographers in my area, but not many newborn photographers. I think this is why I have been so successful in this area of my business. There are not many newborn photographers in this area that offer what I offer to my clients. When a client books me for a newborn session, we immediately start planning what their session will be like. They can be as involved in the planning process as they want or as little as they want. I have clients that will tell me “Do your thing!” and give me creative control and I have others that tell me their vision and I help bring that life. Each and ever session is unique to the baby and the family. Just like every baby is unique and special and so fun! 

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My biggest supporter has been my family, specifically my husband. He has encouraged me, pushed me, and always stood beside me. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it was not for him. I couldn’t go through this without giving credit to God. My faith is so important to me and I believe all blessings are from him. I feel so blessed to do what I do! 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.heidilyonsphotography.com
• Instagram: heidilyonsphotography
• Facebook: @HeidiLyonsPhoto