We had the good fortune of connecting with Lex Poulakos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lex, how do you think about risk?
Honestly I would generally categorize myself as a pretty non-risky person, but my business was truly founded on one big risk. I was working at a company that didn’t value me and had just kind of had enough. One day, without any real plan, I quit. As soon as the decision had been blurted from my mouth to my boss I knew that the only option I was going to give myself was to make my business successful. I couldn’t be more thankful that one of my biggest risks turned into something so fantastic.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am completely in love with my clients and being able to share some of their happiest moments with them. I really honestly believe that I have the greatest humans ever that hire me. I leave every session feeling like I made new BFFs. I like to think that my personality allows them space to be themselves and open up to me, but they would probably be surprised to hear that it hasn’t always been that easy for me. I have had anxiety for as long as I can remember (seriously — I wouldn’t even ask to use the bathroom in elementary school). I used to panic before each session wondering what we would talk about, how would I ever make a couple of strangers feel comfortable, and what if they didn’t like me? I really couldn’t tell you exactly what flipped in me, but I think it has a lot to do with how passionate I am about giving people photos that they LOVE. It’s almost like when the camera is out my anxiety goes away, and I’m able to just do my thing. I hope whoever considers hiring me knows that I will do everything and anything to make you feel comfortable and give you space to be completely yourself. I fall in love with your love stories, feel so lucky to meet your babes, and am honored to document little glimpses of your lives.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First on the list would definitely be a trip to The Ottawa Bakery for coffee and one of their delicious baked goods before a hike around Buffalo Rock. Buffalo Rock is my favorite state park in our area to hang around at. I would take them to my favorite boutique Iconic for a little shopping and afterwards some sushi at BASH our Burger + Sushi House. Before the night was over we would go grab a drink at CatsEye. I’d have my fingers crossed that Open Space Art Gallery would have one of their amazing classes going on otherwise we would pop in to see the current show!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would want to dedicate this shoutout to my family, friends, and all of my clients. All of you have believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself and for that I could not love you more. I am so lucky to have the best of the best around me!

Website: www.lexpoulakos.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lexpoulakosphoto

Facebook: www.facebook.com/lexpoulakos

Image Credits
Lex Poulakos: Photographer

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