Today we’d like to introduce you to Lena Wagner.
Lena, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I first picked up a camera when I moved to LA. I had just finished my MA in translation in Germany and started working at a local LA translation company. I left behind a life that I was used to, along with family and friends that I still miss every day. Without them close by and looking at a completely new life, photography became a hobby – a new way of seeing things and connecting not only with my new home but with like-minded people. It was another reason to get out, explore the city and feel more at home, and eventually turned into a job.
Has it been a smooth road?
I didn’t grow up knowing what I wanted to do in life and I always admired people who were determined to thrive in a particular profession, but I always did something. And I think that’s the way to go for me – as long as I keep going, exploring options, and keeping an open mind as to what can possibly happen, I’ll be alright. I’ve received incredible support from friends and family – the girls I know that moved here from Germany all have their story and we try to encourage and stand up for each other. Most of us are still trying to find our way, which is scary and encouraging at the same time. There are always good and bad days, but it’s become very important to have a network of friends that you can rely on. Nothing is handed to anyone, however, there are actually good people out there who reach out and help selflessly, and I’m determined to pass on the help that has been given to me.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I actually work in sales at an office, something completely different than what I studied or what I’ve wanted to do, but I love my co-workers and I like the office environment. I studied to become a translator and still freelance, but not as much as I would like. Photography went from a hobby to a passion to gigs, and I’m hoping and working hard at moving this part of my life toward a career. I love learning new things (especially in photography) and collaborating with other photographers has honestly helped me the most. Their way of seeing things, suggestions for editing and simply sharing a passion has had a great impact on my work, and I hope it’s the same vice versa.
I’m proud of juggling all my endeavors and following most of my passions (not all at once – there is not enough time in the day). I’m also a licensed fitness instructor, but I’m terrified of teaching in front of a class – that is a goal I set for myself to accomplish this year (or a fear to conquer). What sets me apart is the passion I show for what I do. Although I do many things, it does not come at the expense of half-heartedness. I’ve always followed through on everything I do and am thus reliable and transparent. I don’t leave things unfinished and like to better myself at what I do so that I can help others do the same and contribute in the most efficient way possible.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
I prefer physical books over the digital version and very much enjoy fiction (I devour Stephen King). As for podcasts, I tend to stay on the true-crime side (Serial, Criminal, Sword & Scale). They’ve helped me not only in my translation work (as a non-native English speaker, listening to podcasts helps immensely, as does the reading), but also in my creative side in photography. I would love to translate fiction one day, and hopefully my knowledge of languages and terminology through reading and listening to podcasts will help. I also listen to German news & podcasts to stay in touch with my home country & native language. I do miss German TV – there should be an app for that.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/lenafound
Image Credit:
lenafound
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