We had the good fortune of connecting with Lisa Kirkeberg and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lisa, why did you pursue a creative career?
I always dreamt of being a photographer. When I was in high school, I felt that I wanted to share the beauty that I saw with the world. During community college, I took every photography class available, and really fell in love with the craft. After receiving my associates degree, I decided to attend The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. I spent a lot of time re-learning the basics and felt that I could receive a more intensive education at The Art Institute of Atlanta where they offered a Bachelor’s degree in Photography. After I finished school I moved back to South Florida and began a long and arduous journey of trying to build a photography business. It was the most challenging endeavor I have ever endured. For about 15 years, I had to pay the bills working 1-2 other jobs because I didn’t quite understand the “business” side of things. When I finally stumbled upon a very passionate and creative business mentor, I finally got serious about creating a business where I could actually pay myself!
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am constantly learning from different creative mentors taking workshops in person and online. I’m always honing my craft and coming up with new artistic creations. I specialize in intimate in-studio maternity portraits and sensual boudoir photography.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
By far my favorite part of Miami is Wynwood. It’s a city that features amazing street art and murals from some of the best artists in the world. There are cool bars, shops, and little eateries all over. It’s hard for me to wrap my head around how the artists create the larger than life murals on the sides of the buildings.
Another young, hip area is downtown Brickell. The streets of Brickell are always packed due to all the luxury high rise buildings. You can find awesome art galleries, rooftop restaurants, and cool boutiques.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many amazing educators that have help me grow over the years. If I had to choose one person though, I would say that photographer and business mentor Sue Bryce helped light a fire in me to create a sustainable business where I could finally pay myself a livable wage.
Website: https://portraitsbylisaann.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southfloridaboudoirphotos/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portraitsbylisaann