My Journey from Weddings to Empowering Women Through Photography
I’m Leon McDonald, and my journey as a photographer began over ten years ago with a focus on weddings. Capturing the candid moments and the in-between events was exhilarating. But what I cherished most were the portrait sessions with the bride and groom—those intimate moments filled with love and anticipation. However, time was always against me. Weddings are fast-paced, and capturing those Pinterest-worthy portraits in 30 minutes or less was a constant challenge.
Everything changed when I encountered a mentor whose portrait work was transformative. Her approach wasn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it was about connecting deeply with her subjects and telling their unique stories. Inspired by her, I transitioned from wedding photography to portrait photography. I shifted the focus of Janel Lee Photography with a mission to create a space where my clients could express themselves without the constraints of time and the rush of wedding schedules. This shift allowed me to focus on the essence of each person, capturing their true spirit through thoughtful, personalized sessions. My mission then became focused on Empowering women through photography.
Why I Focus on Photographing Women
Growing up, my mother was my greatest influence. As a single parent, she juggled countless responsibilities, showing strength, grace, and love every day. She rarely took time for herself, always putting the needs of her children first. Watching her selflessness and resilience shaped my understanding of the challenges many women face. It inspired me to create a space where women could feel valued, seen, and celebrated.
At Janel Lee Photography, my primary focus is on photographing women. This choice stems from a deep-seated desire to acknowledge and honor the strength, beauty, and resilience of women everywhere. Our sessions are more than just photoshoots; they are experiences designed to empower. The launch of our 40 Over 40 Project was a natural extension of this mission. This initiative celebrates women over the age of 40, showcasing their stories, achievements, and the beauty that only deepens with time. By highlighting these incredible women, I hope to inspire others to see the value in every stage of life and to challenge societal norms about aging.
The Power of a Portrait: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Every portrait session at Janel Lee Photography is designed to be more than just a photoshoot; it’s a journey of self-discovery. As a portrait photographer, I believe that each session holds the power to transform how women see themselves. My Cincinnati studio is a welcoming space where women can feel safe, comfortable, and celebrated. It’s a sanctuary where their true selves can shine.
The process begins with a personalized consultation, where we discuss everything from wardrobe choices to the emotions and stories my clients want to convey. This tailored approach ensures that every photograph captures not just a face but the essence of who that person is. For many women, the experience is transformative, allowing them to reconnect with their inner strength and beauty. The feedback I receive often includes stories of renewed confidence and self-worth, as women see themselves through a lens that celebrates their unique qualities.
Styling and Wardrobe: Crafting Your Visual Story
One of the unique aspects of a portrait session at Janel Lee Photography is the focus on styling and wardrobe. What you wear can significantly affect how you feel during your session, and our goal is to make sure every client feels their absolute best. During our pre-session consultation, we guide our clients in selecting outfits that not only flatter their bodies but also reflect their personalities. This might include elegant dresses, casual chic outfits, or pieces from our carefully curated studio closet.
The wardrobe selection is about more than just fashion; it’s about telling your story. By mixing and matching pieces, and perhaps incorporating favorite personal items, we create a look that is uniquely yours. This attention to detail ensures that when you see your photographs, you see yourself reflected in the best possible light, which reinforces your sense of self-worth and empowers you to embrace your authentic self.
Building Community by Empowering Women Through Portraits
At Janel Lee Photography, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting one another. Our 40 Over 40 Project is one of the ways we give back, focusing on celebrating women who have crossed the age of 40, a demographic often overlooked in the media. Through this project, we provide a platform for women to share their stories of strength, resilience, and success. The portraits we create aren’t just images; they are a celebration of life’s experiences, both the challenges and triumphs.
Each portrait session is a collaboration where the subject’s personal story is brought to the forefront. This approach not only creates beautiful images but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among our clients. We are proud to be a part of this supportive network and to use our work to uplift and empower the women of Cincinnati.
Wrapping it all up
In the end, my work as a portrait photographer is deeply rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to empower women through photography. Every session at Janel Lee Photography is more than just a chance to take a picture; it’s a chance to celebrate the unique strength and beauty of each individual. By capturing these stories through my lens, I hope to contribute to a broader conversation about the value and beauty of women at every stage of life.
To learn more about our 40 Over 40 Project, click here. I also spend a lot of time on Linkedin, so please click here to connect with me there! Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting the celebration of women’s stories through photography.
comments +