I have been living and working in Charleston for over two decades. My background in modeling, theatre and education have served me in making sessions fun and lighthearted. Clients feel relaxed and that translates to more meaningful photos. I am honored to be invited into your lives and families for very special moments and I do not take that lightly! I want your photos to be something you treasure always.
7 customer reviews
Conor Hull
Headshot Photographers
Lea responded promptly and professionally :)
Leonard
Excellent and very professional. The results were exactly what I wanted. I would refer her to others without hesitation.
Katrina Hardin
Portrait Photographers
Lea captured the perfect moments of our love story during our engagement shoot! She was exactly what we needed for a fair price! She even brought us champagne which was so sweet!! Highly recommend! More...
N Stringer
General Photography
Lea was fantastic! I needed a photographer asap because my original photographer had a family emergency. Lea was ready on the spot! She called and asked for my details and immediately understood what we were looking to do. She arrived that same day (early!) ready and with a bright smile and friendly attitude. We had 4 young children and she was patient with us while getting them dressed. She made us all feel extremely comfortable. I appreciated how she kept things moving with pose ideas and advice on where to take the pictures. Also, we received our edited pictures within a good time frame and they were beautiful!!! The entire family absolutely LOVES the moments she captured. They exceeded our expectations. 5 stars Lea! You were wonderful to work with, especially on such a short notice. Thank you!!! We definitely recommend her. More...
Ashley Gabrielson
General Photography
Lea was awesome to work with and got some great shots of our large family even though the wind wanted to battle us all! We highly recommend her for anyone!
Janet McMaster
Portrait Photographers
Lea made the whole process relaxing and fun, which showed in the resulting photos. Rather than looking stiff, I look relaxed and appear to be enjoying myself. A wonderful experience!
Reply from Lea Austen Photography
Thank you!! I loved meeting you and have now made a new friend
Joanne Fowler
General Photography
Lea responded to my online inquiry immediately. She was flexible on scheduling and very prompt for our session. She was so easy to work with and gave us great shots. I would definitely hire her again! More...
What’s the secret to taking a great photograph?
I believe this starts before the photos are even take. This starts from the first call. Understanding what the client wants and needs, choosing time and location and wardrobe. This is the foundation. After making a connection and getting to know each other, then the magic of the session can happen.
What questions might you ask a client when starting a new project?
Questions would include: Who would be in the session? What is the objective? When are photos needed? What is important to you (the client) when having photos taken?
What do you love most about your job?
I have been a professional photographer for over two decades. The joy I feel not only capturing moments in my clients lives, but also making new friends has been a highlight for me. I have the privilege of documenting a moment and I take that seriously even though we are laughing and having a good time.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I have always loved taking photos in Charleston. From the time I was a teenager coming here on vacation. Taking my camera and heading to the beach or downtown Charleston to capture whatever caught my eye. It seemed a natural transition for me as I moved here over twenty years ago from Virginia. With a background in theatre, modeling and a masters degree in education, all of my life's twists and turns only helped me in my photography career.
Why should our clients choose you?
If you choose to hire me you get a professional from start to finish. My name is on my work and that is important to me. I believe in serving at the highest level and want my clients to feel they are getting only "Ritz" or "Four Seasons" service.
Family and Children Photography
Intimate weddings
Elopements
Corporate and Headshots
