Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Leo.
Hi Megan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into photography began with a simple desire: to help people feel seen. After graduating from Hallmark Institute of Photography in 2013, I spent years refining my craft and building a career centered around storytelling, connection, and empowering others through imagery.
Like many entrepreneurs, my path wasn’t straightforward. There were seasons of uncertainty, personal challenges, and moments that completely reshaped my understanding of success. One of the most transformative chapters of my life came when I left an abusive relationship in 2018. During that difficult time, Erie DAWN provided support, resources, and stability when I needed it most. That experience fundamentally changed the way I view both community and purpose.
Today, I am the owner of Megan Leo Photo LLC, where I specialize in intimate portraiture, personal branding, and commercial photography. But my business has become about so much more than taking photographs. It’s about creating safe, affirming spaces where people can show up exactly as they are and feel worthy of being celebrated.
Because of the support I once received, giving back has become one of the driving forces behind my work. Through my charitable initiative, Portraits with Purpose, I donate photography services and organize fundraising events that directly benefit local organizations, including Erie DAWN. Being able to come full circle and support an organization that once supported me is one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my career.
Over the years, my work has evolved beyond photography alone. I now lead creative projects, collaborate with businesses throughout the region, and continue to build a company rooted in connection, advocacy, and community impact. My goal has never been simply to build a successful business—it has been to build something that leaves people better than I found them.
At its core, my mission remains the same: to create intentional images that preserve memories, celebrate individuality, and remind people that their stories matter.
Looking back, the most inspiring part of my journey isn’t how far I’ve come professionally—it’s realizing that some of the hardest moments in my life ultimately became the foundation for the work I’m most proud of today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. Entrepreneurship has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, but it has also been one of the most challenging.
Like many small business owners, I’ve experienced financial uncertainty, long hours, and the constant balancing act of wearing multiple hats. Building a business requires you to be a photographer, marketer, accountant, project manager, and creative director all at once, and there have been many moments where I’ve had to adapt, pivot, and redefine what success looks like.
Some of my biggest challenges happened outside of business. In 2018, I left an abusive relationship and had to rebuild my life from the ground up while continuing to pursue my career and create stability for my family. During that time, organizations like Erie DAWN provided critical support that helped me move forward.
That experience profoundly shaped the way I approach my work today. It taught me resilience, the importance of community, and the value of creating safe, welcoming spaces where people feel seen and supported.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success is rarely a straight line. There will always be setbacks, unexpected detours, and moments that challenge you, but those experiences often become the foundation for your greatest purpose.
Today, I no longer define success solely by financial milestones or business growth. I measure it by impact—the clients who trust me with their stories, the community organizations I’m able to support, and the opportunity to use my business as a force for good. Looking back, some of the hardest chapters of my life ultimately became the reason I’m able to connect with and serve others in a more meaningful way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the owner and lead photographer of Megan Leo Photo LLC, specializing in intimate portraiture, personal branding, and commercial photography. My work centers around storytelling—creating intentional images that allow people to feel confident, connected, and authentically represented.
Over time, my business has evolved beyond traditional photography sessions. I now collaborate with individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations on larger creative projects while continuing to offer deeply personal portrait experiences. Whether it’s a branding campaign or an individual session, my goal is always the same: to create imagery with purpose and impact.
What I’m most known for is creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. Many clients come to me nervous or unsure in front of the camera, and one of the most meaningful parts of my work is helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout the experience.
What I’m most proud of is using my business as a platform for community impact through my initiative Portraits with Purpose. This project combines photography with service by supporting local organizations through fundraising and awareness efforts.
Most recently, I organized a holiday portrait fundraiser benefiting Erie DAWN. Families participated in mini portrait sessions, and all proceeds were donated to support women and children experiencing homelessness during the Christmas season through Erie DAWN’s holiday toy and gift drive. As someone who once relied on Erie DAWN’s support during a difficult chapter of my own life, being able to come full circle and give back in this way was incredibly meaningful.
What sets me apart is that I don’t see photography as simply taking pictures—it’s about building trust, creating connection, and telling stories that matter. Every person who steps in front of my camera brings a unique story, and I consider it a privilege to help preserve and celebrate that story in an authentic way.
At the end of the day, I hope people remember me not just for the images I created, but for how they felt while creating them and the positive impact my work has had in the community.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, my focus is on continued growth—both in my business and in the impact I can create within my community.
One of the biggest upcoming milestones is opening a private photography studio space. Having a dedicated, intentional environment will allow me to elevate the client experience, expand creative production capabilities, and provide a safe, immersive space where clients can fully step into their story.
Alongside that, I am focused on expanding Portraits with Purpose into a more structured and far-reaching initiative. My goal is to create consistent opportunities that use photography as a tool for fundraising, awareness, and storytelling in partnership with local organizations.
A key part of that growth is intentionally increasing visibility for underrepresented voices in our community. I want to work more closely with organizations supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, women’s empowerment initiatives, and programs serving marginalized populations throughout our city.
Ultimately, I’m excited to continue building a business that grows not only in scale, but in purpose—one that serves clients at a high level while also actively contributing to meaningful, lasting impact in the community I call home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.meganleophoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganleophoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Leophoto20/
