We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lydia Duerr. Check out our conversation below.
Lydia, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me is a mix of creative work, client communication, and running the business side of things. I usually start my mornings early on my small farm — taking care of my animals gives me a peaceful routine before diving into work.
Once I’m at my desk, I’ll check emails, review my client calendar, and handle any editing or gallery deliveries that are due. I spend a good amount of time communicating with clients- whether that’s confirming wedding timelines, sending sneak peeks, or coordinating with venues and my team of photographers and videographers.
On shoot days, I’m typically out on location photographing weddings, engagements, or horse sessions. Those days are high-energy, and I really love working with people and capturing genuine, natural moments.
Evenings often include editing, organizing content for social media, or planning upcoming projects. My days can be full, but I love the balance between the creative side of photography and the organization it takes to keep everything running smoothly.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Lydia, the owner and lead photographer of Lydia Anne Photography. I specialize in weddings and portrait photography, focusing on capturing genuine, storytelling moments with a mix of documentary and traditional styles. I lead a small team of photographers and videographers, and we work with couples throughout New York State and Florida, as well as destination weddings.
Along with photographing, I handle most of the business operations, including client communication, marketing, and creative direction. I really value building authentic relationships with my clients and creating a relaxed experience where they feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
Outside of work, I live on a small farm and enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking, skiing, and caring for my animals. That slower, nature-centered lifestyle influences my photography style, which is warm, grounded, and genuine.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I definitely learned how to work hard from my dad. He was an entrepreneur and built his own business as a carpet installer, so I grew up seeing firsthand what it takes to run something of your own. He was always up early, working long hours, and taking pride in what he did. Watching that taught me that success doesn’t just happen. You have to show up every day and put in the effort.
He also had a big influence on my creative side. My dad loved cameras and always brought his old Sony camcorder to my school events to record everything. He even collected vintage cameras, and I remember being fascinated by how they worked and what they could capture. That’s really where my interest in photography started.
So in a lot of ways, he shaped both my work ethic and my passion. From him, I learned the value of consistency, independence, and doing what you love. Those lessons have stuck with me as I’ve built my own photography business.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was definitely a point early on in my photography career when I almost gave up. The creative world can be really tough, especially when you’re just starting out. It’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly comparing yourself to other photographers, their work, their following, and their success. I remember feeling like I wasn’t good enough or that I’d never get to that level.
What helped me push through was stepping back and focusing on why I started in the first place. I reminded myself that my job isn’t to be like anyone else. It’s to create honest, meaningful work for my clients and to tell their stories in my own way. Once I stopped measuring my success against others and started appreciating my own growth, I found so much more fulfillment.
That experience really taught me resilience and perspective. The creative world will always have competition, but I’ve learned that the only person I need to outdo is the version of myself from yesterday.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think one of the biggest lies we tell ourselves as photographers is that once we’re “fully booked,” we’ll finally feel successful.
The truth? Hitting a certain number of weddings doesn’t automatically mean fulfillment.
Social media makes it look like everyone else is thriving, constantly shooting dream weddings, traveling, and booking non-stop. But behind the scenes, many of us are just trying to find balance, protect our creativity, and remember why we started.
Success doesn’t have to mean being booked every weekend. Sometimes it means having space to rest, to create, and to actually enjoy the art we worked so hard to build.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
There was a time I thought being busy meant I was successful. I said yes to every opportunity, booked every weekend, and pushed myself to the limit, all in the name of growth.
Over time, I realized that overworking came at a cost. I started to miss the little joys in life — mornings on the farm with my animals, being able to enjoy weekends, skiing trips, getaways and just taking a breath to enjoy the process of creating. I was so focused on the next wedding, the next client, or the next gallery that I forgot why I fell in love with photography in the first place.
Now, I make it a point to protect my off-hours and savor the creative journey. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about bookings or numbers. It’s about balance, fulfillment, and remembering to live the life I want to capture for others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lydiaannephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydiaannephotography/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lydiaannephotography/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lydiaannephotography
Image Credits
Hair @trulypamperedsalon
Make-up @erinhillmakeupartistry
Florals @blooms_bydoemadedesigns
Bridesmaid dresses @azazieofficial
Dress @justinalexander
