Polo Photographer Captures Love Stories One Click at a Time

In the heart of Sterling, Lana Scholl has made a name for herself as a premier wedding photographer through her business, Photography by Lana. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Scholl captures the essence of love during one of the most significant days in a couple’s life—wedding day. Over the years, her work has transformed from a hobby into a thriving business, reflecting her dedication to the art of photography.

Scholl’s journey into photography began with a simple gift: a digital single-lens reflex camera. This present ignited a passion that only grew as she explored various photography techniques. Initially studying graphic design at Augustana College in Rock Island, she later shifted her focus to photography after taking elective classes that showcased her talent behind the lens. “I feel like photography chose me,” Scholl remarked, highlighting her unexpected yet fulfilling career path.

Crafting Lasting Memories

For couples planning their wedding, selecting a photographer is an essential decision. Wedding photos serve as timeless keepsakes, preserving memories of a day filled with love and joy. Scholl understands the importance of this responsibility and aims to create images that evoke emotion and nostalgia for years to come. She operates from a private studio in downtown Sterling, where she prepares for various shoots, ensuring that each couple feels special and comfortable.

“You have to be paying attention, but you don’t want to be forceful to the point where they go, ‘Do I look okay?’” Scholl explained. Her approach focuses on making couples feel at ease, allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally. By starting with simple poses and encouraging spontaneous interactions, she captures authentic emotions that reflect the couple’s unique relationship.

Scholl collaborates closely with couples, wedding planners, and venues to tailor her services to each wedding’s specific needs. “I can work with the planner or the venue to help build a timeline that makes sense,” she said. This preparation ensures that no moment is rushed, allowing everyone to savor the day. Her goal is to provide a seamless experience, where couples can enjoy their celebration without the stress of time constraints.

Capturing Spontaneity and Connection

The magic of wedding photography lies not only in staged poses but also in the candid moments that often go unnoticed. Scholl emphasizes the significance of being vigilant during key moments of the ceremony, ensuring that no precious memory is missed. “You do not want to miss that moment, not at all,” she stated, underscoring her commitment to capturing the essence of each event.

In addition to her wedding packages, which range from 8 to 10 hours, Scholl also offers engagement sessions. These sessions serve as an opportunity for couples to engage with her style before their wedding day, allowing her to establish a rapport and understand their preferences. “I feel like every year I grow more, and I love to see my photos progress,” Scholl reflected on her evolving skills as a photographer.

While most of her clients come from within a four-hour radius of Sterling, Scholl is eager to expand her horizons into destination weddings. Her past experiences have already taken her to various locations across the United States, including a session in Virginia Beach last year. Alongside weddings, Scholl captures family milestones, including maternity and newborn sessions, fostering long-term relationships with her clients.

“When they get married and come back to me for maternity or birth photos, I can build these bonds with couples that I never imagined,” Scholl shared. The emotional connections she forms with clients make her work all the more rewarding, allowing her to witness the journey of love and family growth.

As she continues to refine her craft, Scholl remains dedicated to capturing the genuine moments that define relationships. Her passion for photography not only allows her to document significant milestones but also connects her with the stories of love that unfold before her lens. “I feel so lucky that I get to capture that,” she concluded, affirming her commitment to preserving the beautiful memories of couples on their special day.

For those interested in learning more about her work or scheduling a session, Photography by Lana can be found on Facebook and Instagram (@photographyby.lana), or through her website at photographybylana.com.