Meet Lena Ibarra

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lena Ibarra.

Hi Lena, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a wedding and event photographer, I am committed to artfully weaving narratives of love and life through my lens. My journey in photography is not only a creative pursuit but also a way to capture the essence of meaningful moments. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, my ancestors embarked on a courageous journey from Scandinavia to the United States, seeking a brighter future. Their resilience and hard work have paved the way for the opportunities I cherish today.

From a young age, a sense of connection to my heritage beckoned me to explore the rich stories, culture, traditions, and languages of my Scandinavian roots. This calling led me to study Scandinavian Studies and Fine Art at North Park University in Chicago, where my Swedish relatives had also trodden. Armed with a camera, I spent over a decade immersed in the landscapes, fjords, and fika of Stockholm, Sweden, and Oslo, Norway. Eventually, I found my way back to the “Danish Capital of America,” Solvang, California, where I grew up. Through my lens, I aim not just to capture moments but to narrate the tales of our origins, believing that understanding our roots brings a profound sense of wholeness.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Reflecting on my journey, I acknowledge the trials and tribulations encountered along the way. From the pressures of pursuing higher education to the challenges of relocating to a foreign land at a tender age, my path was fraught with obstacles. From navigating the intricacies of residence permits to weathering the isolation of my early years as an au pair in Sweden, my resilience was tested time and again. Moreover, contending with the complexities of identity and acceptance as an expatriate in Europe posed additional hurdles. Yet, guided by an unwavering intuition and a deep trust in my instincts, I persevered, carving out a path uniquely my own.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Currently, I reside in my hometown where I have come full circle in many aspects of my life. I married the boy who gave me my first kiss, and together we are blessed with a son. Photography has remained a steadfast passion and side hustle throughout my journey. In addition to my endeavors behind the camera, I have garnered professional experience in corporate events and travel, as well as honed my skills in web design. Recognizing the evolving landscape of technology, I am currently pursuing further education to become a full-stack web developer, eager to expand my skill set and embrace new opportunities in the digital realm.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lenabrittphotography.com
• Instagram: @lenabrittphotography
• Facebook: @lenabrittphotography

Image Credits
Vestland Fylkeskommune
Lena Britt Photography