Today we’d like to introduce you to Sontera Dresch.
Hi Sontera, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Like most photographers, I can’t remember I time I wasn’t playing around with my camera. From high school newspaper to the dark room in college and then eventually earning my BFA in photography from Sam Houston State University in 2009. I started out doing a bit of everything until I discovered boudoir and then made the decision to go all in on that genre! I photographed my first boudoir session in 2008 but have been shooting boudoir full time since 2013 – wow I can’t believe it’s been 13 years already!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I like to say that having a business is like raising a child. In the beginning, there are a lot of late nights with your new baby, but you’re fueled by this new love and obsession. Eventually, things calm down a bit but then those toddler years emerge, which keep you on your toes. Just when you think you’ve got it down and things are running smoothly, you enter the teenage years and you have to pivot your approach yet again.
Things are always evolving in our society and you have to be ready to pivot or you won’t keep up…from marketing trends and social media to generational changes. What I did 13 years ago won’t work today… even things I did 3 years ago won’t work anymore.
Personally, my life has also gone through some major changes, and as such, I’ve constantly had to change how I approach my business. When I started I was a newlywed with allllll the time in the world. Once I became a parent, I needed to outsource a few things to focus on my young babies.
Now divorced and raising two beautiful daughters on my own, I am proud to work so hard on a business I love and to show my children that mothers can be successful, complex and passionate.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Lighthouse Boudoir is a photography studio focused on the boudoir genre for women, couples, and maternity. My version of boudoir photography is artistic, timeless, and authentic. I believe that being seen in art is incredibly powerful.
Through my photography, I love to show that strength and vulnerability can coexist. We are all complex people, and I want the photos to reflect that. Some of my work is light and bright but I also love the dark and moody vibes too!
I am most proud of the environment I create for my clients, one where they can feel comfortable, trust the process, and truly be themselves. They don’t need any experience, that’s my job! This is a fully guided experience, allowing our clients to be comfortable enough to be vulnerable. (…and have a ton of fun the entire time!)
Our studio is located in North Houston and with 3+ sets it’s one of the largest studios in Houston. Many clients travel from all around Texas for their sessions so we offer same day reveal appointments which allows clients to view their photos right after the session!
Many of our clients book their boudoir session to celebrate an anniversary, wedding, birthday or just for fun! We offer stunning albums, prints and digital collections.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The biggest support honestly has come from former clients who I’ve stayed close with and become friends with over the years. As clients but also friends their feedback means the world to me. As well as my family who are always supportive and encouraging.
Pricing:
- Session fees range from $300-400
- *Photos purchased separately.
- Collections begin at $600, with most clients investing around $2,000.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lighthouseboudoir.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lighthouse_Boudoir/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LighthouseBoudoir/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonteraDresch
- Other: https://lighthouseboudoir.com/portfolio
