We had the good fortune of connecting with Hannah Lauver and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hannah, what matters most to you?
Something that has always been really important to me, but especially in recent years, has been honoring the stories of the people that I photograph, down to the tiniest moments. I truly believe that the smallest things can be the most impactful and meaningful, and it’s no different when it comes to photography. I’ve always been drawn to the details–the things that most people might find mundane. Our everyday lives are often so fast paced, and there’s so much to steal our attention. It takes intention to allow your mind to slow down and appreciate the little things, and I think those are the things I try to capture in photographs. To remind my clients of the little things that really aren’t so little. Their kid’s sticky hands, the way they get a dimple on their cheek when they smile. On wedding days, we spend time focusing on guests and family members, and the way they interact. The hope is that, when life inevitably feels overwhelming, too fast, too much, that the photos I take will serve as a grounding tool. To remind people what is important and worthwhile, and worth their attention.

What should our readers know about your business?
I own a photography business called Sparrow and Lace Photography, and I have two different main areas of focus: weddings and family/motherhood. I started my business about 12 years ago, and it has taken years and years of trial and error to get to where I am. I photographed my first wedding at 17 while I was still in high school, and when I graduated, immediately started my business. I had no official schooling in business, and so most of what I learned throughout the years was through trial and error. I quickly had to learn to be comfortable with failure–not all of my ideas were successes. But the more you fail, the easier it gets, and at this point in my business, it feels fun to try something new, even if it’s not a complete success. I think that’s one of the many benefits of owning my own business. I’ve created a safe space to dream big, try ideas, and ultimately sometimes fail, but I learn so much along the way. One of the areas of my business I’ve come to be the most excited about is the family photos. Since becoming a mother in 2020, capturing mothers and their little ones has become so near and dear to my heart. Becoming a parent is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, and being able to give parents something tangible to look at, when they feel like they’re in the midst of chaos and hard decisions, it’s something I’m so passionate about. Being able to capture the connection between parents and children, and then allow the parents to get a tiny glimpse into that beautiful connection, it’s so special. When you’re in the thick of parenting, it doesn’t always feel beautiful and magical, but having those photos to ground you and look back on is so important.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The places I tend to love the most are quiet and usually outdoors. I’d suggest local coffee shops, and hikes around some of the state parks in the area. Any bookstore is always a must for me! The people that excite me to be around are the type of people you can sit for hours with and talk about the deepest topics you can think of–where small talk is nonexistent and you can just fully be yourself and be present.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The people who continually allow me to step into their lives and capture their stories. I wouldn’t be anywhere without the people who allow themselves to be vulnerable and to let me photograph their moments, big and small. Especially the clients and families who continue to ask me to photograph their milestones time and time again.

Website: https://www.sparrowandlace.com

Instagram: @sparrowandlace

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.