We had the good fortune of connecting with Lisa White and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lisa, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
The pursuit of a creative career was really inevitable for me. I come from a family of artists and have been around art my whole life. My mom is a talented illustrator & painter, as well as my uncle! Creativity has come in all forms within my family, from music to crafts to culinary arts. So when I first discovered photography, I knew that was my medium of choice. Working within a creative field is so much more fulfilling for me. An obvious sign of this was a past job choice that didn’t include using any type of creativity. By nature, it was a corporate, “go by the script” type of position and I was there because it was a company I (still) have high respect for…but I was absolutely miserable. I tried for a long time, but I realized that position simply did not fit me. Some degree of creativity has to be part of my career for me to truly enjoy it. Work takes up a good portion of your time and life is short.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I primarily focus on commercial photography for luxury brands, but I also work with a variety of businesses for their photography needs, from ecommerce images to headshots. This year, I am most excited about some goals to really dive into my style of work. I have always had a keen eye for design and layout, so I am really looking to showcase that more within my work. In the near future, I want to offer a few more services that can help brands market their products such as graphic layouts and print advertising.
The path to be a full-time photographer wasn’t exactly easy, and I wouldn’t say it is now “easy” yet either. Anytime you decide to go out on your own and “be your own boss”, it requires a lot of self-discipline, fearlessness, and at some point, delegation in order to scale. For me, what has helped tremendously is recognizing the limits I have put on myself and why. The first step was reflection through self-examination to identify these patterns and strategize how I can change my habits. And for the things I can’t control? I bring that to God through honest prayer and surrender.
After that, the next part is jumping. Jumping into the action of how to get the result you want. These two steps really go hand in hand. If you do not observe yourself before you start jumping, you can really make some reckless and costly moves. But if you only reflect and never move, you will not reach your goals. That is just the reality of it.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh where do I start? If there was someone coming to visit for a week, these are the spots I would recommend as some “must-sees”:
Coffee stops that I cannot get enough of are Oakland Coffee & Juice Bar, Paris Morning Bakery and Cyth & Co. ( I actually showcase my favorite local coffeehouses on my hobby instagram @coffeeshopshowoff if you would like to see more reviews! )
Brunch spots would include Bulegreen Cafe Yard in Oakland Park, Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar in Fort Lauderdale, and Seeds Cafe in Royal Palm Beach!
A natural hidden gem would have to be Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (also known as John U Lloyd Park). There is a jetty all the way at the end of the park that is secluded and awesome to hang out with some friends.
A bakery not to miss is JW Pastry in Davie – absolutely worth stopping in for any of their baked goods!
Of course, the beach is a wonderful place to be, so I would recommend Landshark Bar & Grill on Hollywood beach for some drinks with the open sea air.
Lastly, my list of favorite spots for dinner starts with Phat Boy Sushi. I bring anyone coming to town to Phat Boy, hands down. Next, I would recommend Shooter’s Waterfront and Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely want to shoutout Jesus Christ for leading me to who and where I am today. The people, opportunities and passions He has placed in my life is beyond comprehension. My husband, for the encouragement, support and love he constantly pours out to me. My mom for always supporting me and being the best mother I could ever have. My beautiful family that have never stopped believing in me throughout the years, and finally, my amazing friends that have been a HUGE blessing in every season. Thank you.
Website: www.lisawhiteproduct.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhiteproduct/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhiteproduct
Other: www.theluxephotographer.com
Image Credits
Lisa White, Katherine Gregorio, Pilar Chaves, Valunthinee Phoung