Hi, I'm Lisa Kathan, a strategy-first brand photographer in the Chicago area. I started out in 2015 as an elopement and tiny wedding photographer. Since 2023, I've focused on brand photography, helping coaches, therapists, creatives, consultants, and small business owners show up online looking (and feeling!) like themselves.

Every session starts with strategy, so you walk away with photos you'll actually use everywhere: your website, socials, podcast art, newsletters, and beyond. But you don't have to take my word for it. Here's what my clients have to say.

What Do Real Clients Say About Working with Lisa Kathan Photography?

They feel like themselves on camera. Even clients who usually dread photos say they felt relaxed, confident, and seen.

Lisa's FRAME method makes the difference. Every session starts with research and strategy, so the shots fit the business and the brand.

They use their photos everywhere. Websites, social media, podcast art, newsletters, and headshots, all from one session.

The impact keeps going. Clients share how their photos boosted their confidence and helped bring in aligned clients and partnerships.

"I simply see…me":
Reviews about feeling like yourself on camera

"I wanted photos that felt like me. Not just professional headshots, but images that reflected my passion for creating meaningful ceremonies and the heart behind Forever Incredible Ceremonies. She took the time to truly understand who I am, what I value, and why this work means so much to me. Somehow, she translated all of that into photographs that feel genuine and authentic. When I look at these images, I don't see a polished version of myself. I simply see…me."

Carla Doshi
Wedding Officiant
Forever Incredible Ceremonies 

"Being able to trust Lisa through the planning process allowed me to be more at ease, even confident, during the photo shoot. I mean, really, how often do people say they feel good in front of a camera? The photos themselves are not only lovely, but they feel true to me and my work."

Nerissa Israel
Calligrapher and Engraver
Nerissa B Calligraphy

"Lisa, you're the best! Thank you for helping me feel confident on camera. It's had an unbelievable ripple effect in my business."

Emma Mulvany
Coach
Empowerment by Emma

"These photos from my session are amazing, Lisa! Thank you so much for sharing your creativity & contagious energy with me. I had so much fun & look forward to updating my website!!"

Roxanne Sorci
Therapist
Generational Health Therapy

Strategy first:
Reviews about the FRAME planning method

"The shoot itself was so easy and strategic. Lisa really knows what she's doing! She researched my business and knew what shots she wanted to get from a creative perspective, which I really appreciated. I brought some products that I've designed and she incorporated them into my shoot and I wound up with THE most amazing photos!"

Beth Schneider
Artist & Product Designer 
Beth Schneider Designs

"My favorite part about planning my photo shoot was actually meeting with Lisa to plan the photo shoot! She truly took my business to heart and made it her own. I loved brainstorming with her about different scenes for the photo shoot, clothing options, and how it all fits in nicely with my branding, website, and message."

Wendy Valentine
Podcast, Midlife Makeover
Wendy Valentine

"Lisa makes the whole process feel so easy and comfortable, and she has such great ideas that help people really show up as themselves and show off their brand. That combination of strategy, creativity + making people feel at ease is such a powerful combination!!"

Lauren Schaff
Business Coach
Lauren Schaff

"From the first time I saw your website, I knew you were it. And every step along the way, you've reinforced not just your ability as an incredible photographer, but also your development of the vision."

Ellen Waller
Dance Fitness Training Coach
Target Training

Photos that work:
Reviews about using the images

"We discussed the vision for my business, my target audience, my clothing choices for the photo shoot, and how my photos would be used for my business: website, podcast art, social media, newsletters, and headshots. I received a ton of photographs and I use these photos all the time! I can't wait for my next shoot with Lisa!"

Wendy Valentine
Podcast, Midlife Makeover
Wendy Valentine

"I just downloaded all the photos and have the biggest smile on my face. … I can't wait to start using these in every post now. It's a plethora of amazing photos and b-roll to choose from which I haven't experienced before...eek!! … The same way I want everyone to experience coaching...I want everyone to have the experience working with Lisa!!"

Laurie Magee
Business Coach
Evolve with Laurie

"I LOVE the photos!! They came out so great. I can feel the energy in each of them. Some of them look like they belong on a magazine cover. I'm so grateful and appreciative!"

Michelle Patidar
Wellness & Cancer Coach
Revival Health & Wellness

"I'm speechless!! I absolutely LOVE the photos and the B-roll. You captured everything I was hoping for and so much more. The entire set is beautiful and feels so aligned with the heart of my brand."

Carla Doshi
Wedding Officiant
Forever Incredible Ceremonies

The ripple effect:
Reviews about what happened after the shoot

"My photo shoot was the first pivotal step that changed how I show up as the CEO of my business and it's had a massive ripple effect. The biggest thing that single image did for me, right off the bat, was give me confidence. It also became the central piece that I started to build my entire brand around: website, marketing assets, the whole aesthetic."

Emma Mulvany
Coach
Empowerment by Emma

"If you're a wedding professional or small business owner who has ever wondered if a branding session is worth it, I can't recommend Lisa enough. She doesn't just create beautiful photographs. She uncovers the story that makes your business uniquely yours."

Carla Doshi
Wedding Officiant
Forever Incredible Ceremonies

"These photos are awesome! I really appreciate the time, creativity, and energy you've put into everything. I look forward to continuing to work with you as our practice grows!"

Arlyn Rozanski
Therapist
Definition Therapy Chicago

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Ready to feel this good about your photos? Let's chat about your brand session: Schedule a Discovery Call