Meet Lana Davis |

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lana Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The decision to start my own business was a union of two passions that I had for quite some time. On one side, my love for cooking and the boundless creative opportunities it offers played a significant role. I found immense joy in crafting new dishes and experimenting with delightful twists, but often, these culinary creations would be forgotten if not documented. The realization that I wanted to preserve these recipes and capture their essence became an initial driving force behind my entrepreneurial journey.

Simultaneously, the COVID-19 pandemic presented a unique set of challenges. As a designer, my work was affected, and I found myself with additional time on my hands. It was during this period that I made a decision to enhance my photography skills, recognizing that as a designer, I often relied on stock imagery that didn’t always meet my needs. I yearned for the ability to create captivating images myself, and so I enrolled in a couple of food photography courses.

Little did I know that those courses would ignite a profound passion within me. I fell head over heels for the artistry of food photography, capturing the beauty of delectable dishes and visually expressing their culinary stories. It was in this fusion of photography and design that my business found its true essence.

Today, I am fortunate to combine my expertise in photography and design, bringing mouthwatering imagery and menus to life. Each photograph becomes a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the chefs, enabling me to marry my love for visual storytelling with the culinary world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The idea for my business emerged organically, sparked by a series of unexpected events and growing demand within my network. It all began when a friend approached me, seeking photographs for her home-made chocolate brand. Eager to support her venture, I enthusiastically took on the task and captured enticing images that showcased the delectable treats.

Word of mouth played a significant role in my business’s early stages. As my friend proudly displayed the photographs and shared them with others, I started receiving inquiries from individuals within my extended circle. Another friend, with a bakery of her own, expressed interest in having enticing images for her delectable creations.

To further share my work and connect with a broader audience, I began sharing the images on my Instagram account. The power of social media proved instrumental in attracting attention and generating interest. As I continued to post my work, showcasing the artistry and allure of various culinary creations, clients beyond my immediate network began reaching out, expressing their desire for photoshoots and visual content.

What started as a favor for a friend gradually blossomed into a genuine business opportunity. The increasing demand for my photography services and the positive feedback I received ignited the realization that I could turn my passion and talent into a thriving business.

Today, I am grateful for these early experiences and the natural progression that led me to establish my business. It serves as a testament to the power of personal connections, the influence of word-of-mouth referrals, and the impact of sharing one’s work through social media. These elements converged to lay the foundation for my business, and I continue to build upon that initial spark, expanding my clientele and immersing myself in the captivating world of food and beverage photography.

Its hard for me to say what sets me apart, but I believe that the most important factor behind the success of my brand is the unwavering focus on my clients and their unique needs. Understanding that every client is distinct and may have different preferences has been instrumental in building lasting relationships and achieving success.

Listening to my clients and delivering precisely what they ask for, even if their taste differs from mine, has been a guiding principle in my work. By putting their vision and desires at the forefront, I ensure that the end result aligns perfectly with their expectations. This client-centric approach fosters trust, satisfaction, and ultimately leads to positive referrals and repeat business.

Flexibility and adaptability are key in the creative industry. I take pride in my ability to work in various styles, allowing me to cater to a diverse range of client preferences. Whether it’s capturing the essence of a rustic aesthetic or designing sleek and modern visuals, I strive to meet and exceed my clients’ expectations by embracing versatility.

The most important lesson my business has taught me is the value of patience and consistency. In a modern world that often glorifies overnight success and rapid results, I have come to realize that sustainable growth and lasting achievements require a steadfast commitment to these principles.

Patience has been an invaluable virtue throughout my journey. It has taught me to embrace the ebb and flow of progress, understanding that success is not always immediate or linear. Building a successful business or career takes time, perseverance, and the ability to weather the inevitable challenges and setbacks that come along the way. By cultivating patience, I have learned to trust the process and remain steadfast in my pursuit of long-term goals.

Consistency is equally vital. It is the steady drumbeat that propels progress and breeds excellence. Consistency means showing up, day in and day out, and consistently delivering high-quality work, providing exceptional service, and upholding the values and standards that define my brand. It is through consistent efforts that trust is built, relationships are nurtured, and a solid reputation is forged. I have discovered that even small, incremental steps taken consistently over time can lead to remarkable outcomes.

Together, patience and consistency have taught me to embrace the journey and find fulfillment in the process itself. They have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of persistence, resilience, and the rewards that come from staying the course. By embodying these principles, I have witnessed the transformative impact they can have on both my business and personal growth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friends were visiting the area, I would ensure they have an unforgettable week filled with culinary delights and captivating experiences. As a food photographer and avid foodie, I would take them on a gastronomic journey through local restaurants, offering a diverse range of flavors and atmospheres.

We would start by indulging in well-established high-end restaurants, savoring exquisite dishes crafted by talented chefs. For a taste of fusion cuisine, I would recommend Peruvian Asian Cuisine, where we can even participate in a cooking class and learn the art of creating an authentic ceviche.

To soak up the local culture, we would explore Mizner Park, a vibrant destination offering a mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining. We could leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying live performances by talented local bands, and later settle at a trendy bar to unwind and engage in conversations with some locals.

As art enthusiasts, we would also make a stop at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, where we can immerse ourselves in captivating exhibits showcasing the works of renowned artists. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and creativity of the art world while engaging in thought-provoking conversations.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my amazing husband for his unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me. His constant presence by my side has been a source of strength and inspiration throughout my journey.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to Joanny Simon, an incredible author and educator. Her insightful YouTube videos played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue photography on a professional level. Her words of encouragement and bravery sparked a fire within me and gave me the confidence to explore my passion.

Both my husband and Jenny Simon deserve credit and recognition for their significant contributions to my story. Their support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my success and helping me reach where I am today. I am truly grateful for their influence and inspiration.

Website: https://www.lanadavisphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/lanadavis_photography/3145297709314045230/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lana-davis-photography-boca-raton-2

Image Credits
Lana Davis Photography Francesca Bliss Photography (images of me)