Check Out Marisa Leigh’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marisa Leigh.

Marisa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? 
My career has given me the greatest gift of all: to see beauty in everything I encounter and to look deeper into the souls in front of me and spark the light inside of them. I truly believe women are the most interesting creatures in the world, and the untapped power I see in every woman that walks through my door absolutely astounds me. 

Who am I? Well, I’m an ambitious, often delightfully weird and curious girl. Ever since I can recall, I’ve been on a quest to decipher the enigma of my existence—unraveling the whys of my arrival, transforming traumas into triumphs, and daring to continuously edit my beliefs to propel myself beyond my current limitations. 

Since I was a teenager, photography has been an integral part of my life. It was during a period of pain and confusion in my life that I discovered the camera and in looking through the lens, a whole new world was revealed to me. I was no longer seeking for what was missing but for what was possible. I only wanted to find beauty in everything I saw. The camera triggered my heart and my unique journey of transformation. 

I have the privilege of guiding women to their most vulnerable state—yes, you guessed it—naked. But from there, I don’t just become their photographer; I become their biggest cheerleader. I coach and empower them to embrace the most confident version of themselves. Behind the camera, I serve as their trusted guide, creating a space for them to feel liberated, safe, and empowered to brave the beauty they’ve always possessed within. 

My camera, to me, is nothing short of a magical instrument, capturing the beauty I see instantaneously. The end product isn’t simply a piece of artwork; it’s a testament to a profound journey of spiritual transformation, not only for my clients but for myself as well. Each photo I capture offers a deeper insight into my own being, a self-portrait revealing the beauty within that I also seek to explore and embrace. It’s a journey of self-discovery through the lens, where every click brings me closer to understanding and celebrating my own inner beauty. 

My life’s purpose and daily mantra revolve around guiding others to grasp and embrace self-love. Ironically, it’s also my most formidable challenge. Yet, I firmly believe that our greatest struggles offer the most profound opportunities for growth, allowing us to lead others forward through shared experiences. 

The last 13 years as a boudoir photographer in the City of Angels have been one of the greatest gifts I could ever imagine. I strive to be a conduit of courage, an inspiration, and a guide in leading more women on the path of embodying their strength and beauty. 

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?
I left art school in Santa Barbara with a heart ablaze and a fierce determination, so I set my sights on Los Angeles to pursue my passion for photography. Failure was not an option – I was determined to make my mark in the world. As I embarked on my journey, I eagerly welcomed every chance that crossed my path, whether it was capturing headshots or family portraits or dashing to a different wedding every weekend. I was always striving to create art that would touch people’s souls. True to my being, I was a spermatic but nimble mountain goat; I leaped from rock to rock, soaking up every experience and honing my craft. Though I spent a few years in the commercial and advertising world, it was crystal clear to me that my true artistic calling was to create photographs that would endure the test of time and be cherished for generations to come. I longed to create something that would leave a lasting impression, just like my parents’ beloved wedding album. Despite the demands of my work, I never wavered in my pursuit of artistic excellence. 

But somehow my life had become a frenzied race, my spirit was running on empty. It was as if I had taken a wrong turn on my journey and stumbled into a dark ditch. The fearless girl I once knew was too busy trying to make ends meet and replaced by a shadow of her former self. I had lost my focus and my drive, and it was all too convenient to forget about my once-treasured dreams. 

It’s ok. We all fall down, and there was a lesson here for me to learn, as will be every time until I learn it. 

With a curious mind and an open heart, I started to challenge everything I thought I knew. I probed deeper, searching for the sweet spot where my talents and passions intersected. I wondered how I could leverage my hard-earned expertise to make an even greater impact. The questions kept coming: What makes my heart sing? What ignites my soul? Where do I belong? And though I couldn’t yet see the road ahead, I knew one thing for sure: it was time to take a leap of faith and welcome new possibilities into my life. 

I knew I needed to step into my purpose and to create a world and life that I wanted to be proud to live in. One where I could wake up every day and say YES, yasss, this is THE life I love. 

I honestly didn’t know yet what that looked like… So, I started with a blank canvas. I thought about what my greatest challenges were in my life and, again, what I was truly passionate about. 

My greatest challenges have significantly been around having the courage to step into my power and to be seen and that’s why I will forever push myself beyond my own self-inflicted limits. What I was truly passionate about was creating a powerful experience and beautiful photos of women that opened them up to something unique, special, and worth celebrating. 

Transforming the most agonizing chapter of my life into an enduring work of beauty became my paramount goal. I boldly birthed my boudoir business out of pure dreams to follow my heart. Thus, from the ashes of pain arose the phoenix of my passion, charting a vibrant new course that rekindled the very essence of vitality within me. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a boudoir photographer, I have been blessed to witness the incredible transformation that takes place when women embrace their true beauty. Through my lens, I capture not just their physical form but the essence of their soul – their strength, their courage, and their raw, unfiltered beauty. 

I’m known for my artistic, moody images. My goal with each session is to involve my clients in the creative process, to make art that is uniquely them, the goal being that they end up with photo art that is wall-worthy. 

I have a beautiful studio in the hills of East La, and it’s an oasis of beauty with good vibes. What sets me apart from others, I believe, is my experience, my art, my amazing makeup artist Keleigh, who’s been with me for 15 years, the warm and cozy environment we’ve created, and last but not least, my superpower to bring anyone out of their shell to shine. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Shoot. Shoot every day. Don’t ever give up on your dreams. Get as much experience as you can, be humble, do the jobs you always don’t want to do to, and do them knowing there is always a lesson. As a photographer I’ve adopted the mantra I am always at the right time at the right place and I always am. Push yourself, do the uncomfortable, and go above and beyond for your clients whenever you can! 

Pricing:

• Packages begin at $2500

Contact Info:

• Website: www.boudoirla.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boudoirlosangeles
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisaleighphoto/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/marisa-leigh-photo-los-angeles