Today we’d like to introduce you to Preston Lane
Hi Preston, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all started in 2013 when my father gifted me a beginner camera for Christmas after hearing me talk endlessly about wanting to learn photography. From the moment I unwrapped it, that camera became my constant companion. One of my earliest adventures was sneaking it into a concert in Madison, WI, where I captured photos of the performers and shared them online, tagging the artists and the venue.
To my surprise, I received a message from the venue staff not long after. They loved my work and invited me to join their photo team. I didn’t hesitate for a second—I was all in. That decision kickstarted an incredible journey into concert photography. Over the next six years, I had the privilege of photographing some of the biggest names in music who came through Madison. It was a whirlwind of excitement, creativity, and connection. Along the way, I met extraordinary artists and built lifelong friendships with people I worked alongside—relationships I still cherish today.
But like so many, my world shifted when COVID hit. Concerts came to a halt, and with them, my work as a concert photographer. During that time, I moved to Eau Claire, WI, and decided to push myself in a new direction. I stepped into the world of weddings and portraits—territory that felt unfamiliar but thrilling.
The past few years have been an incredible period of growth and experimentation. I’ve been lucky to connect with amazing couples and build a portfolio that reflects my evolution as a photographer. Every opportunity has been a gift, and I’m endlessly grateful for the trust people have placed in me to capture their most important moments.
While I still think of myself as a work in progress, I take pride in how far I’ve come since those early days. Photography is a journey, not a destination, and I’m committed to learning, improving, and growing as long as I have a camera in my hands.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all—it’s been anything but smooth. The journey has had its fair share of challenges, but those struggles have shaped me into the photographer I am today. Early on, I had to teach myself the technical side of photography, often through trial and error, while balancing the sheer excitement of capturing moments. When I began shooting concerts, I faced the pressure of navigating low-light environments and the unpredictability of live performances, all while trying to produce images that captured the energy of the show.
The biggest hurdle came when COVID hit and live events came to a standstill. Not only did I lose the chance to do what I loved most, but I also had to face the reality of starting over in an entirely new niche. Transitioning from the fast-paced, adrenaline-filled world of concerts, to the intimate, detail-oriented space of weddings was a huge adjustment. I doubted myself at times, wondering if I could succeed in a new field.
But through all of it, I kept pushing forward, learning, and staying open to growth. Every struggle taught me something new—about photography, resilience, and myself. It hasn’t been easy, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. Each challenge has made the successes feel that much more rewarding.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Having started in the wild and unpredictable world of concert photography, I’ve developed a knack for thinking on my feet and embracing spontaneity. This mindset fuels my creativity and drives me to capture meaningful moments through a blend of traditional techniques and experimental approaches that push creative boundaries.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. Whether it’s capturing the intimacy of a wedding day or creating a unique, artistic portrait, I strive to craft images that are authentic, timeless, and visually striking. What sets me apart is not only my ability to connect with people and put them at ease in front of a camera, but also my willingness to experiment with light, angles, and techniques to create something truly one-of-a-kind.
What does success mean to you?
This is a great question. I hear others ask how to be ‘successful’ in this industry, and the simplest reactions are often broadly overlooked. Success doesn’t need to be defined as making a ton of money and have endless clients. It’s something simple like when a couple looks at their wedding photos and feels every emotion from their day all over again, or when a client sees themselves in a portrait and feels truly seen. It’s about delivering more than just photos—it’s delivering an experience that’s meaningful and unforgettable. Each reaction encourages me to keep going and brings more warmth and joy to my passion.
On a more personal level, I see it as constant growth. Experimenting with new techniques, challenging myself creatively, and continuing to push beyond my comfort zone are all markers of success. It’s not about perfection but about progress—knowing that every session brings me closer to mastering my craft while staying true to my passion and vision. If I can look back and see how far I’ve come while still feeling excited about where I’m headed, that’s the ultimate success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shotbypreston.us
- Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/shotbypreston
- Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/shotbypreston
