EP 95 - How to Break Into Editorial Photography with Lucia Wallace
Hey friends! Back with another Summer School spotlight - and today we’re diving into the creative world of Lucia Wallace. If you don’t already follow her, get ready to be obsessed. Lucia is a documentary wedding photographer who brings a bold, editorial edge to everything she touches. Think: moody, fashion-forward, intentional storytelling that still feels human and real.
How It Started
Lucia’s photography journey started in North Carolina, but things really began to shift after her move to Oregon in 2020. With a deep love for styling, creating mood boards, and pulling inspiration from fashion, Lucia started playing with how she could blend that editorial energy with her documentary roots. The result? A unique and recognizable style that feels like art and story all at once.
Styled Shoots
When we chatted, Lucia talked a lot about how pivotal styled shoots have been for her growth. Not in the Pinterest-perfect sense but as creative experiments. A chance to slow down, direct, and create for you instead of a client. “Styled shoots helped me feel creative again and allowed me to experiment without the pressure of a wedding timeline,” she shared.
Bringing Editorial Into Weddings
Lucia doesn’t try to squeeze editorial images into a rushed timeline - she builds time for it on purpose. She talks with her couples about the vision and makes sure everyone’s on the same page so she can carve out space to create something different. Sometimes that means two hours across different parts of the day - but it’s all intentional and collaborative.
Her tip? Communicate early and clearly. If you want those cover-worthy shots, you need time and trust to make it happen.
Lucia’s Tips for Getting Started with Editorial Shoots
If you’re itching to shoot more editorial-style work, Lucia dropped some gems:
1. Just start. Don’t wait for the perfect idea or the perfect model. Use what you have. Thrift some clothes. Grab a friend. Go shoot.
2. Create a concept. Even a loose storyline gives your shoot depth. Maybe your subject is a '90s It Girl. Maybe they’re heartbroken and glamorous. Make it more than just pretty.
3. Practice directing. Work with both pros and regular people so you learn how to get the vibe you want - no matter who’s in front of your lens.
4. Be okay with stuff not working. Some shoots won’t turn out how you imagined, and that’s fine. You’re still learning and flexing that creative muscle.
5. Look outside photography for inspo. Fashion mags, music videos, film - consume visuals that challenge you and make you feel something.
Final Thoughts
Lucia is such a good reminder that photography doesn’t have to fit in a box. It can be a playground. A statement. A story. A collage of movement and mood and meaning. If you’re ready to get out of your comfort zone, start playing with editorial work and see where it takes you.
Want more convos like this? Join the Summer School community and come learn with us. We’re all about pushing creative limits, getting better at the craft, and doing it together.
—Summer 🖤
Connect with Lucia:
Website: luciawallacephoto.com
Instagram: @luciawallacephoto
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