Lisa Lent is a portrait photographer in the Central Coast region of NSW, capturing all from newborn babes to wedding parties.
Lisa shares the emotional spark that first began her journey at Lisa Lent Photography.

Lisa, what was the idea that first got the ball rolling?
I am one of these people that have always had a liking for photography but never in my wildest dreams thought I would make a career out of it. I left my full time reception job in 1998– and my husband bought me a gift. It was a little point and shoot camera. I started taking photos of literally everything and anything (ask my family). I entered a local competition and to my surprise came 2nd. I was so incredibly excited and started wondering what else I could learn and do.

I joined quite a few photography-related websites and practised and practised for years. I finally upgraded my camera and knew I wanted to work as a photographer.

At first, I photographed landscapes and sport, but they weren’t quite right for me. One day I was asked to photograph a wedding for someone. I captured this particular couple’s day and walked away from their reception crying like a baby. When I got home I said to my husband “That is it!” I knew without a shadow of a doubt that was my “calling” so to speak.

What got you excited enough about the idea to put it into motion?
Putting my idea into motion came from an unlikely source actually. I was contacted by a man called David Holmes (Dictate Australia) He asked if he could use a photo I had taken of Umina Beach, NSW. I noticed he also had a business selling domain names, and I asked if I could get a website address in exchange for the use of the photo. The rest is history!

Where did the name for your business spring from?
I toyed with the idea of using cute fun names but decided to stick with my real name as I think its more personal.

What sets Lisa Lent Photography apart?
I really like to get to know my clients on a personal level, whether it is becoming friends with them on Facebook or other means. I am 100% devoted to them, their upcoming special day or their family portrait. I base my business on not only the great photography but customer service is paramount.

What was the most difficult part in getting your business off the ground?
I would say learning about business in general and having marketing ideas that work.

Has any part of your business gone down a different path than you first anticipated?
Not really, my business is completely me. Quirky, fun and energetic!

What do you enjoy most about running your business?
Of course doing the actual photography part is most enjoyable but also I love the looks on my client’s faces when they see their images for the first time. If they cry that’s a great thing believe it or not.

There’s also been a lot of variety in my work, which I enjoy. Photographing a beautiful newborn baby one day and a large wedding the next! An interesting aspect has been photographing some well-known faces, such as Kasey Chambers, The Central Coast Mariners, Shannon Noll, Rick Price, Daryl Braithwaite, Marty Worrell, Marty Simpson, Paulini, Kate Derouge, Nathan Foley, and even Bob the Builder!

Do you belong to any networks that have helped you grow your business?
Networking has been fantastic for me, not only for business but for my confidence as a business woman. I have met so many wonderful people.  Twitter, CCBiz (central coast business) and Facebook have also been great for various reasons.

What are your future goals for Lisa Lent Photography?
To be a known name on the Central Coast, and also be to recognised as a photographer that is  passionate about what she does and what she captures.

I also at some point would love to get a proper office set up and have a team of workers from bookkeepers to graphic artists.

What advice would you give another woman wanting to start a business of her own?
Find something in your heart that you are truly in love with. You will know it when it happens, be prepared to be so excited that you cannot sleep. Go with your gut and follow your dreams.