Today we’d like to introduce you to Makayla Lambert.
Hi Makayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been drawn to visual storytelling, I have never really been good with words so I try to show not tell. My creative journey began at Rouse High School where my piece about the polarization inside of my local school board meetings was picked up by PBS Newshour. That project taught me how powerful media is at relaying important messages. After graduating, I joined the Austin Film Society as an intern, where I learned to use professional filmmaking equipment as-well as assisting events and productions. That experience pushed me to start AsteriLens, my own creative business focused on affordable media production through many different mediums of storytelling. Since then, I’ve expanded into fashion photography and short film production. I love to explore identity and emotion through narrative and expression. I also write conceptual treatments and film scripts. Today, I balance college, full-time work, and growing AsteriLens. I want to build a space where art, fashion, and film intersect to tell intentional and raw stories.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all, that’s part of what makes my life now so meaningful. Balancing school and full-time work on top of building this business hasn’t been easy. There were plenty of times where I doubted myself or struggled to keep up. It becomes very isolating because i’m always so occupied that I never get to see my family or friends. Financial stability has also been a challenge, since this work doesn’t always guarantee a consistent income, especially when you’re starting out and having to prove yourself. There’s also the mental side of learning to stay motivated and to keep creating even when no one’s watching. But I have always trusted that this will pay off over time. It’s tough managing burnout but I continue to keep pushing forward even when things feel uncertain.
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?
Through AsteriLens, I specialize in many things, photography, videography, editing, and graphic design; with a focus on fashion editorials and portraits. My work is heavily influenced by my emotions and my experiences navigating a male-dominated field. I’ve worked on everything from runway shows and music videos to editorials and creative campaigns. I’m so proud of how far AsteriLens has come. This started off as a small passion project and has grown into something that reflects who I am as an artist. I’ve met so many incredible creatives who have transformed the way I see my work and life. Every person i’ve worked with in Austin has shaped who I am today.
What sets me apart is my approach. As a woman who has experienced the pressure of unrealistic industry standards, I understand how important it is to capture somebody’s true beauty and identity. Feeling confident and comfortable throughout the creative process is so important to me and crucial on any set I am on. I’m self-taught, Adobe Premiere Pro certified, and experienced with Photoshop, Lightroom, and DaVinci Resolve, which allows me to bring a cinematic perspective to every project. More than anything, I want my work to make people think, and connect. That’s my intention with AsteriLens. Storytelling that’s conceptually beautiful and deeply human.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to work with me is through AsteriLens! I’m always open to collaborations and other projects. I love connecting with people who share the same passion for intentional and meaningful creations.
I’m based in Austin, Texas, but I’m open to traveling for the right projects. People can reach out to me through Instagram (@asterilens / @maklambert) or through my website contact form at AsteriLens.com to discuss bookings or creative collaborations.
The best way to support me is simply by sharing my work or connecting me with other artists and brands who value authentic storytelling.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.asterilens.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asterilens
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makayla-lambert-8980b1195
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/maklambert
Image Credits
Evan Atkins
