Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Land.
Hi erica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my career as a lawyer while pursuing photography as a creative passion on the side. After the birth of my third child, I realized I wanted greater flexibility and more control over my work schedule so I could be fully present for my family. That decision led me to leave the practice of law, pursue additional professional photography training, and turn what I loved into a career.
I started by photographing children from my own children’s preschool community, and over time my business naturally expanded into many different areas of portrait photography, including professional and acting headshots, branding, family portraits, dancers, other sports, and even dogs (as pets!)
About six years ago, I took a step back to focus not only on photography, but on truly learning the business side of running a successful company. That shift transformed my business and allowed me to serve my clients at a much higher level while building a strong, profitable brand with the same professionalism and dedication I brought to my legal career.
What I love most is connecting with people and telling their stories through portraits. My work is not just about creating a beautiful image. It is about creating something meaningful and personal. Through pre-session consultations, I take the time to truly get to know each client so that every session reflects who they are and preserves their story in a lasting way through custom artwork, albums, and portraits for their home.
I have been honored to receive numerous photography awards and recognitions, all of which can be found on www.Erica Land Photography.com
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, and I think that is something many people can relate to. When I first started, I was passionate about photography and connecting with people, but the business side did not come naturally to me. I had to learn, often through trial and error, how to build a sustainable business while also raising a family and balancing all of the responsibilities that come with being both an artist and an entrepreneur.
One of my biggest challenges was that I care deeply about the people I photograph. My goal has always been to make every client feel confident, comfortable, and truly seen. Because of that, I sometimes put too much pressure on myself to make everyone happy all the time. Over the years, I have learned the importance of balance, boundaries, and trusting my experience while still leading with kindness and empathy.
There were moments of self doubt and moments where I questioned whether I could really turn my passion into a successful long term career. But those experiences ultimately shaped me into a better business owner and a better photographer. About six years ago, I made a conscious decision to truly study the business side of photography, and that changed everything for me. It allowed me to create a stronger business while also giving my clients a higher level of service and experience.
I think those challenges are actually part of what helps me connect so deeply with my clients today. Most people walk into a portrait session carrying insecurities, stress, or important life stories. Because I understand what it feels like to navigate challenges and growth myself, I am able to create an experience where people feel comfortable, valued, and genuinely confident in front of the camera.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am known for creating more than just beautiful portraits. My work is really about helping people feel confident, seen, and valued in a genuine and authentic way. Whether I am photographing a high school senior, a dancer, a family, a business owner building their brand, or a woman rediscovering herself in a new season of life, my goal is always the same: I want every person who steps in front of my camera to walk away feeling more confident than when they arrived.
Over the years, I have become known for creating a luxury, full service photography experience that is both elevated and deeply personal. I take the time to truly get to know my clients before ever picking up the camera so that their portraits reflect who they are on the inside, not just what they look like on the outside. Many people come to me feeling nervous or insecure about being photographed, and one of the most rewarding parts of what I do is watching that transformation happen during the experience. Hearing clients say they felt empowered, beautiful, or truly seen means more to me than anything else.
I am also very passionate about storytelling and creating projects with deeper meaning and impact. Through initiatives like Project Beauty and Fiercely Seen, I have focused on themes of confidence, authenticity, and redefining beauty beyond social media filters, unrealistic standards, or age expectations. One of the projects closest to my heart is Project Beauty, where teens are photographed without makeup or retouching to celebrate natural beauty and inner strength.
In addition to my portrait work, I lead a tween and teen ambassador team that combines photography, creativity, leadership, and community service. Through my nonprofit and ambassador programs, our team participates in charitable initiatives throughout the year, raising money and awareness for causes including childhood cancer, So What Else, and other organizations that support children and families in need. Each year, we also organize a fashion show fundraiser that has become an incredibly meaningful way to use creativity and connection to give back to the community.
What sets me apart is the connection I build with the people I photograph. I believe people always remember how you made them feel, and more than anything, I hope my work is known for making people feel truly seen, celebrated, and confident in who they are.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck has absolutely played a role in my life and business, both in beautiful ways and in challenging ones. Some of my biggest opportunities came through relationships, referrals, and genuine connections with people. A connection, meeting the right person at the right time, or someone sharing my work with a friend has often opened unexpected doors, and I feel incredibly grateful for those moments.
At the same time, I believe what many people call “luck” is often created through consistency, passion, resilience, and genuinely caring about people. Because I value collaboration and supporting other women in business, I also co-founded a networking group for women-owned luxury businesses. That experience has reinforced for me how powerful relationships and community can be, both personally and professionally.
I have spent years building meaningful relationships, creating experiences that truly impact people, and continuing to show up even during difficult seasons. That commitment has opened opportunities I never could have predicted.
Of course, there have also been moments that initially felt like bad luck or setbacks. But many of those experiences pushed me to grow stronger, learn important lessons, and evolve both personally and professionally.
So yes, luck has played a role, but I believe gratitude, hard work, perseverance, authenticity, and staying true to who you are matter even more.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ericalandphotography.com
- Instagram: @ericakeysland
- Facebook: ericalandphotography
