Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Czech.
Lisa, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been creative for basically my entire life but really started to take photography seriously in high school when I took a photography class. We worked with all sorts of media, and I spent so much of my free time in the darkroom developing film or in the computer lab exploring Photoshop. My photography teacher pushed us to create unique work, and he’s a big part of the reason I’m a photographer today.
I did study photography in college as well and photographed my friends and local bands as much as I could. My college advisor encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone, and although he eventually proved unsuccessful as I’ve returned to my roots in the music industry (it was meant to be!), stepping outside of the box is what gave me the courage to be in this business in the first place.
Has it been a smooth road?
Not at all! As a creative, you hope that you can just make good work and that’s enough. However, there’s so much more to it, and that’s where I’ve struggled.
I’ve actually experienced a fair amount of sexism, mostly in the music industry, making it difficult to be taken seriously with my music photography. It’s definitely disheartening to be turned down for jobs specifically because I’m female, or to be barraged with sexist questions while I’m doing my job in a green room or photo pit. It happens all the time, but thankfully I’ve been able to work with so many more artists who don’t have that mindset, and who respect me and appreciate my work. Finding those people has been key, and they’ve kept me motivated.
My advice for other women would be to just keep going. Don’t let the negativity cloud your judgment or get in the way of your goals. The road is long but it’s definitely worth it.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Lisa Czech Photography – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I started out photographing music and I think that’s what I’m most well known for. My photos have been printed on the pages of magazines, used as album covers and in album artwork, even plastered on a tour bus! I love being able to capture the vibrant energy in a room, but capturing the quiet moments has always intrigued me. When you think of music photography, people typically picture something loud and energetic – so those quick, quiet moments tend to be my favorites. As someone who loves music, it’s surreal to be so involved in the industry!
On the total other ends of the spectrum – I also enjoy creating branding photography for local businesses. In today’s social media-heavy world, visual content is SO important, and it’s rewarding to help businesses understand this. I work with so many different types of clients – auto repair shops, gyms, restaurants, other artists, etc. – and it’s truly a joy to create unique imagery for each one.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Networking is tough! I’m part of a photo collective called The Photo Ladies, a group made up solely of female photographers. I’ve not only been recommended for jobs by fellow members but have received endless support and advice as well. If you can find a similar group – join it!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lisaczech.com
- Phone: 617-249-3672
- Email: info@lisaczech.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/lisa_czech
- Facebook: facebook.com/lisaczechphotography
Image Credit:
Sarah Lynn Photography
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