Indianapolis is famous for the Indy 500 and cars reaching speeds over 200 mph. Yet the shutter of a camera can race at 1/500th of a second or faster to capture quick-moving action. In this episode I moved quickly to capture the unique generational story of Lesle Lane, CEO of Studio 13 in metro Indianapolis. Lesle comes from a long line of award-winning photographers, each of whom made their mark with their images and vision for the business. Lesle shares her lifelong involvement in the business and is candid about the rational and emotional happenings along the way. Merge into the fast lane for this 62nd episode of GENeration EXcellence with Lesle Lane.
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Lesle Lane is not your average creative—she’s a visionary entrepreneur, a third-generation photographer, and a former professional ice skater who knows what it takes to perform under pressure. As the CEO of Studio 13, Lesle transformed her family’s traditional photography business into a modern, agile brand built for the gig economy. She leads a team of independent photographers across the Midwest, delivering stunning visual content for clients ranging from small businesses to major commercial projects—all while maintaining operational excellence and creative integrity. Lesle is one of the few women leading in the commercial photography world, and she’s passionate about paving the way for others. Whether she’s mentoring up-and-coming freelancers, speaking on creative entrepreneurship, or drawing lessons from her athletic past, Lesle brings an honest, energetic perspective to leadership, branding, and the evolving world of work. If you’re looking for a guest who can speak to the intersection of business, creativity, and resilience—Lesle Lane brings the kind of story and strategy that resonates.Lesle Lane is not your average creative—she’s a visionary entrepreneur, a third-generation photographer, and a former professional ice skater who knows what it takes to perform under pressure. As the CEO of Studio 13, Lesle transformed her family’s traditional photography business into a modern, agile brand built for the gig economy. She leads a team of independent photographers across the Midwest, delivering stunning visual content for clients ranging from small businesses to major commercial projects—all while maintaining operational excellence and creative integrity. Lesle is one of the few women leading in the commercial photography world, and she’s passionate about paving the way for others. Whether she’s mentoring up-and-coming freelancers, speaking on creative entrepreneurship, or drawing lessons from her athletic past, Lesle brings an honest, energetic perspective to leadership, branding, and the evolving world of work. Lesle opens up about being raised in a family business where photography was a lifestyle and legacy. From age six, she knew she was destined for this field—even when her parents initially looked to her brothers to take it over. When they passed the torch to her, she didn’t just maintain the legacy—she modernized and scaled it. In fact, after losing a key team member, her daughter stepped in to help rebuild and restructure operations, demonstrating the power of family and adaptability in business.
Lesle also dives into the often-overlooked emotional journey of mompreneurs—the guilt, the drive, the pressure to do it all. She vulnerably reflects on her own parenting style and how watching her daughter parent differently became one of her proudest moments. Her advice to new moms? “Give yourself grace. Your 80% is someone else’s 120%.” This interview is more than just business strategy—it’s a heartfelt look at legacy, leadership, and life behind the lens. Whether you’re a mom balancing kids and clients, an entrepreneur building your dream from scratch, or a creative looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatability, and encouragement.
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In this episode, Traci Chernoff speaks with Lesle Lane, photographer and owner of Studio 13, about her journey in the photography industry, the transition from employees to contractors, and the importance of building a positive work culture. They discuss the gig economy, adaptability in business, and how to create a supportive environment for contractors. Lesle shares her insights on mentorship, the future of work, and the benefits of treating contractors with respect and transparency.
About Our Guest: Lesle Lane is a third-generation photographer with more than 3 decades of personal experience in the industry. She serves on the Alumni Board at her alma mater, Butler University, and earned her MBA from Indiana Wesleyan. Lesle has raised a couple of children into adults and loves being “Bam” to her grandkids. She and her husband live in Noblesville and enjoy days on the lake boating with their two fur babies.
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What happens when you blend generational legacy, motherhood, and a thriving commercial photography business? In this powerful episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, your host Charisse Walker sits down with Lesle Lane—corporate photographer, legacy business owner, mentor, and one of the few women thriving in the male-dominated world of commercial photography. Lesle shares her unique journey of taking over the business her parents built, navigating the dramatic shift from film to digital photography, and ultimately transforming the business model to fit today’s gig economy. She now leads a team of contract-based creatives, including photographers, videographers, drone operators, and social media managers—all while maintaining a commitment to high-quality work and personalized service.
Lesle opens up about being raised in a family business where photography was a lifestyle and legacy. From age six, she knew she was destined for this field—even when her parents initially looked to her brothers to take it over. When they passed the torch to her, she didn’t just maintain the legacy—she modernized and scaled it. In fact, after losing a key team member, her daughter stepped in to help rebuild and restructure operations, demonstrating the power of family and adaptability in business.
Lesle also dives into the often-overlooked emotional journey of mompreneurs—the guilt, the drive, the pressure to do it all. She vulnerably reflects on her own parenting style and how watching her daughter parent differently became one of her proudest moments. Her advice to new moms? “Give yourself grace. Your 80% is someone else’s 120%.” This interview is more than just business strategy—it’s a heartfelt look at legacy, leadership, and life behind the lens. Whether you’re a mom balancing kids and clients, an entrepreneur building your dream from scratch, or a creative looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatability, and encouragement.
In this Unscripted SEO conversation, Zaneta Chuniq Inpower interviews Lesle Lane, co-founder and lead photographer of Studio 13, about her journey in photography, the transition to B2B photography, and the impact of technology on the industry. Leslie shares insights on scaling her business, the importance of networking, and the role of mentorship in shaping the future of photography. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and the significance of authenticity in visual representation.
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Corporate Photography Secrets for Small Business Growth
Host: Simply Be Found
Take a deep dive into the business of corporate photography with Lesle Lane, founder of Studio 13 and third-generation photographer based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Lesle joins Simply Be Found’s Dean and Rob for a raw, real, and insightful conversation about how professional photography shapes branding, builds credibility, and supports business growth. Whether you’re a small business owner, marketer, or creative professional—this episode is packed with value. We talk about: — How photography drives marketing success in the digital era — The real difference between “disposable” content and evergreen media — Why branding matters more than ever in 2025 — Transitioning from solopreneur to business owner — The impact of AI on professional photography — Client relationships, pricing, and licensing tips for photographers — Balancing profitability and creativity
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Did you ever wonder what it takes to turn a family legacy into a thriving, modern business—especially when you’re blazing trails as one of the few women in your industry? Today, we’re diving into the complex journey of evolving an established business in a male-dominated field. There’s the pressure of preserving tradition while carving out your own identity, breaking into corporate partnerships where old networks still dominate, and leading a team when perfectionism and scaling collide. Lesle Lane, founder and lead photographer at Studio 13, has not only carried forward her family’s three-generation photography business but also transformed it into a cutting-edge name in corporate and commercial photography. She’ll share her real-life experiences on gender barriers, leadership, and the art of client-focused storytelling. In this episode, you’ll hear Lesle’s insights on managing growth, building lasting industry relationships, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Expect honest stories and practical takeaways from a true industry pioneer.
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From Camera to CEO: How She Built a Scalable Photography Empire
Host: Millioniare University
What does it take to build a photography business that lasts — and scales? In this powerful conversation, host Kirsten Tyrrel sits down with Lesle Lane from Studio 13 to uncover how she turned a multi-generational legacy into a thriving corporate photography brand. Lesle shares her unique journey from learning the ropes as a kid in her family’s studio to running a team of photographers and navigating loss, motherhood, and massive industry shifts. You’ll hear how she built a systemized business that values professionalism over ego, why fast turnaround times and client experience are key to standing out, and how she’s structured her team to support both lifestyle freedom and long-term growth. Whether you’re a creative looking to go full-time or an entrepreneur building a service-based brand, this episode is packed with real talk, proven strategies, and inspiration to help you think like a CEO!
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Her Simple Strategy to Scale without Burning Out
Host: She is Leader with Yvonne Hiemann
Did you ever wonder what it takes to turn a family legacy into a thriving, modern business—especially when you’re blazing trails as one of the few women in your industry? Today, we’re diving into the complex journey of evolving an established business in a male-dominated field. There’s the pressure of preserving tradition while carving out your own identity, breaking into corporate partnerships where old networks still dominate, and leading a team when perfectionism and scaling collide. Lesle Lane, founder and lead photographer at Studio 13, has not only carried forward her family’s three-generation photography business but also transformed it into a cutting-edge name in corporate and commercial photography. She’ll share her real-life experiences on gender barriers, leadership, and the art of client-focused storytelling. In this episode, you’ll hear Lesle’s insights on managing growth, building lasting industry relationships, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Expect honest stories and practical takeaways from a true industry pioneer.
Behind the Lens, Beoynd the Ice – The Life of Lesle Lane
Host: Behnd the Camera with AndyGames
Hi! My name is AndyGames_94. This is the podcast where I interview people within the world of content creation and beyond, with the sole purpose of getting to know the person a little bit better, Behind the Camera!
Lesle Lane is the Founder and Lead Photographer of Studio 13. Lesle is a third-generation photographer with deep roots in the industry, transitioning her family’s legacy business into a modern, thriving corporate and commercial photography brand.
AI in Photography: How Studio 13 Leads the Future of Visual Content
Host: Financial Freedom with Dr, Christopher H. Loo, MD-PhD
AI in photography is transforming how businesses approach visual content—and Lesle Lane, founder of Studio 13 Indianapolis, is leading the way by integrating innovation with authenticity. In this insightful episode, we explore how Lesle navigates the changing demands of the photography business, from corporate content creation to staying ahead of automation and tech disruption. Whether you’re a photographer entrepreneur facing uncertainty or a business in need of authentic brand photography, this conversation will equip you with answers and strategies.
Lesle shares how she transitioned from film to digital, overcame economic downturns, and now uses AI to improve workflow without sacrificing creativity or quality. She also discusses why large companies still demand real, transparent imagery, and how B2B photography services can evolve without losing the human connection that makes branding work.
If you’re looking for real solutions to today’s challenges in content creation for brands, or wondering how to future-proof your creative career, this episode delivers grounded advice from someone who’s walked the path—and continues to lead.
What It Means to Carry Legacy Forward with Lesle Lane
Host: Action’s Antidotes
Family legacy means different things to different people. For some, it’s a big part of who they are, with strong traditions and high expectations. For others, it’s something they’re still trying to figure out. But how do you build something new while honoring where you came from?
In this episode, I have Lesle Lane, the founder and lead photographer of Studio 13. Photography runs in her family, and she’s been able to take that legacy and shape it into something of her own. In our conversation, Leslie shares what it was like growing up in a photography family, how she found her own style, and what it means to her to carry that legacy forward while doing things her way.
Are You Present for Your Legacy?
Host: Designing a Legacy with Angelina Carleton
Is legacy inherited as well as created by your presence? Thus, how present are you…? How do you balance being strong with asking for help … 3 generations in? What does it take to keep a family enterprise going for 100+ years, as products evolve over the decades? In this podcast episode, hostess Angelina Carleton speaks with Lesle Lane—a 3rd generation family business member and a woman in a family enterprise. With a camera in one hand and generations of tradition in the other, Lesle shares what legacy planning means to her, how she was present in all important moments – no matter the age of family members, as an investment into human capital, and how she had to develop personally thru all market cycles. We explore the intersection of family businesses, entrepreneurship, and legacy as Lesle opens up about the emotional responsibilities, watching the women who came before her and the value of giving all the love you received and ‘didn’t receive’ to the next generations. If you’ve ever felt the weight of legacy, or wondered how to blend reverence for the past with a bold vision for the future—tune in!
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Corporate Photographer Lesle Lane
Host: The Chris Voss Show
In this captivating episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss delves into the world of corporate branding photography with Lesle Lane, founder of Studio 13. Lesle shares her journey from inheriting a family photography tradition to modernizing it into a cutting-edge business. With insights into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning a legacy business into the digital age, Lesle illustrates the transformative power of entrepreneurship and innovation.Lesle Lane discusses the evolving landscape of photography, emphasizing the role of technology advancements and her adaptive strategies to meet market demands. She highlights the significance of authenticity in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), noting how AI can be both a tool and a challenge for photographers. Lesle’s experience as a former competitive ice skater adds a unique perspective on resilience and leadership in her career. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining trust in brand imagery and shares valuable insights into expanding services, such as drone photography and corporate headshots, reflecting her company’s growth and adaptation to client needs.
Lesle Lane: Photographer and Owner of Studio 13
Host: Marc My Words
Lesle Lane took over the family business at a very young age. A lot of life and business lessons were learned along the way due to stepping into an entrepreneurial role after starting out as an office manager. Lesle shares wisdom that she learned from her days as a professional ice skater and how she overcame all of the obstacles that were thrown at her in order to become a successful photographer and entrepreneur.
Corporate Photographer Lesle Lane
Host: School for Startups Radio
Lesle Lane is a third-generation photographer with more than 3 decades of personal experience in the industry. She serves on the Alumni Board at her alma mater, Butler University, and earned her MBA from Indiana Wesleyan. Lesle has raised a couple of children into adults and loves being “Bam” to her grandkids. She and her husband live in Noblesville and enjoy days on the lake boating with their two fur babies.
From Ice Rinks to Boardrooms: The Entrepreneurial Journey
Host: Business Chop
In the ever-evolving world of photography, adapting to change while honoring tradition is a delicate balance. This episode of Business Chop features Lesle Lane, a third-generation photographer who has successfully navigated this challenge, transforming her family’s legacy into a thriving modern commercial photography brand.
Lesle shares her journey from competitive ice skater to pioneering businesswoman, offering valuable insights on resilience, innovation, and the power of embracing new technologies. Her story is a testament to the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship, especially in creative fields.
Blending Legacy with Innovation
Lesle’s narrative highlights how she:
- Transitioned from film to digital photography
- Invested in cutting-edge equipment to stay ahead of the curve
- Integrated AI into her workflow to enhance efficiency and creativity
Lessons in Leadership and Team Building
Drawing from her experiences, Leslie discusses:
- The challenges of leading a team at a young age
- Her unique approach to building a flexible, results-driven team in the gig economy
- The importance of showing appreciation and fostering team spirit, even with contractors
Nurturing the Next Generation of Creatives
Lesle’s passion for mentoring shines through as she emphasizes:
- The balance between artistic talent and business acumen
- The value of under-promising and over-delivering
- How to maintain professionalism in challenging situations
Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs
- Embrace change and new technologies in your industry
- Build a support network to help you through tough times
- Find creative solutions to staffing and team management
- Balance personal passions with professional growth
Navigating the Challenges of Photography
Host: The Profitable Creative | Christian Brim, CPA/CMA
PROFITABLE TALKS… In this episode of the Profitable Creative, host Christian Brim interviews Leslie Lane, a third-generation photographer and owner of Studio 13, a corporate photography business based in Indianapolis. Leslie shares her journey of taking over the family business at a young age, the challenges she faced, and how she adapted to technological changes in the photography industry. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding client needs, the role of customer service, and the strategies Leslie employs to identify her ideal customers. Additionally, they discuss delegation, compensation structures for photographers, and the ongoing challenges of business development and marketing in a competitive landscape.
PROFITABLE TAKEAWAYS…
- Leslie took over the family business at 23, facing many challenges.
- Adapting to digital photography was crucial for survival.
- Understanding client needs is essential for success.
- Customer service plays a significant role in photography.
- Identifying the ideal customer is key to business growth.
- Delegation is important for managing a photography business.
- Compensation structures should reflect the value of work.
- Business development is a major challenge for Leslie.
- Experience in photography helps in handling difficult situations.
- Building relationships is more important than just selling services.
Behind the Lens with Photographer Lesle Lane ’91
Host: CCOM Pawcast | Butler University
Lesle Lane ’91 graduated from Butler University with a degree in Liberal Arts and has earned a successful career in photography, now running Studio 13.
She has been awarded national recognition for her images and helped Studio 13 come to serve global manufacturers, distributors, and bio-tech organizations.
In this episode of the CCOM Pawcast she joins Joe Valenzano, Dean of the College of Communication, to discuss her background, the role of AI in photography, her Butler memories and excitement about the future of the university, and being better at accounting than math.
Visit the official website for Studio 13
This episode was produced by Butler students: Chris Palmer ’25, Blake Richmond ’26, and Toni Jazvic ’28.
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Want to Elevate Corporate Image Making? An Interview with Lesle Lane, Founder of Studio Thirteen
Host: The Doctor of Digital
What does it take to build a legacy in the world of corporate photography? Join me as I sit down with Lesle Lane, founder of Studio Thirteen, to explore the secrets behind her family’s multi-generational business. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Lesle has honed her skills as a photographer and leader, earning her MBA from Indiana Wesleyan and serving on the Alumni Board at her alma mater, Butler University.
Lesle’s extensive background in corporate image making has equipped her with the expertise to deliver high-quality assets that support her clients’ brand strategies. With a diverse team of photographers and associates, Studio Thirteen has built a reputation for excellence, accuracy, and brand transparency. As we dive into our conversation, Lesle will share her insights on what sets her company apart and how she approaches collaboration with clients to elevate the custom photography experience. Episode During this episode, we’ll do a deep dive into the changes and hot topics of photography & the biggest challenges. I will leverage the expertise of my guest and how to navigate the unique dynamics of the field.
Lesle Lane is a 3rd generation photographer with an excellent eye to help you create a compelling vision for your business. Still photographs are not a thing of the past. In fact, they can make or break your website, brochures, social media, and bottom-line profit. Listen to this lively conversation and you will understand how important it is to engage with Lesle and her team as they help you create a compelling vision for your business. Learn more about Lesle at her website.
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Discover how resilience and creativity blend in the world of photography with Lesle Lane, an inspiring third-generation photographer from Studio 13 in Indianapolis. Lane shares her journey from a family legacy in portrait and wedding photography to her unique niche in corporate and commercial photography. Her background as a national ice skating competitor has honed her adaptability and competitive spirit, guiding her through the challenges of an industry that demands both creative vision and business savvy. Learn about her innovative strategies, from embracing new technologies to building a robust team, all while maintaining a strong client focus. Join us as we unravel the complexities of balancing the artistic and entrepreneurial sides of photography. Lane offers her insights into the evolving commercial photography sector, where the affordability of high-quality equipment has intensified competition. She emphasizes the importance of nurturing personal relationships with clients, which has become even more crucial in the post-COVID business landscape. Networking platforms like Accelerant have been pivotal in her journey, offering B2B connections that differ from traditional groups like BNI. Discover how Lane is navigating the unpredictable market while ensuring her business’s growth and sustainability.
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From Ice Skating to Modernizing a Legacy: Lesle Lane’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Host: WIL Empowered
In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, Vicki Bradley sits down with Lesle Lane, a third-generation photographer and founder of Studio 13. Lesle shares her inspiring journey from competitive ice skating to transforming her family’s photography business. Key Topics Covered:
- The role of mentorship in fostering growth
- Innovating and modernizing a family legacy
- Balancing work-life demands as an entrepreneur
- Embracing discomfort to achieve personal and professional growth
Discover how Lesle’s passion and adaptability have shaped her career, the importance of community support, and why continuous learning is the key to success in today’s evolving business landscape.