Ken Lew Photography, established in 2005, has a perfect 5-star Yelp rating. Here is just one comment from a former client: “My partner and I worked with Ken Lew for our 20th anniversary photoshoot a few months ago. Ken has the ability to tune into who his clients are, provide a lot of ease to be themselves, and capture the true beauty in each person. Ken magically captured the essence of our love—silly, playful, supportive, and loving.”
In an era when most of us can whip out a cell phone to take any number of photos, Lew reminds what a difference skill and experience can make—and also consideration and care for others that reflect back in what the lens captures. Those last two qualities are too often missing, even among trained photographers, and help lift Lew’s work to the 5-star level.
GGBA: Please tell us more about your photography businesses, sharing its mission and values.
Kew Lew: Ken Lew Photography specializes in corporate headshots, event photography, and branding in the form of visual storytelling for businesses and organizations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. My mission is to help people feel seen, valued, and represented through photography that reflects who they truly are from the inside out.
At the heart of my work is the belief that a photograph can do more than document a moment; it can help someone recognize their own value and feel more confident in how they represent themselves to the world. I strive to create an experience where people feel comfortable, safe, respected, and empowered, resulting in images that strengthen both personal confidence and company branding. My values are centered around human connection, representation, inclusivity, service, and helping people show up as their best selves.
GGBA: Why did you decide to create Ken Lew Photography?
Kew Lew: I started my business because I saw how transformative photography could be. Over the years, I witnessed people arrive
at a session feeling nervous, self-conscious, not feeling worthy or unsure of themselves, only to leave feeling confident and proud of who they are. Those moments inspired me to build a business focused, not just on creating great photographs, but on creating positive experiences that encourage healing, building self-worth and self-love.
I wanted to help individuals and organizations present themselves in a way that feels genuine and meaningful. In a world where first impressions matter, I believe everyone deserves to be represented in a way that reflects their value, expertise, and unique story.
GGBA: Who are some of your role models, and especially those who helped to influence your business?
Kew Lew: Many of my role models are people who lead with kindness, service, and authenticity. I am inspired by my husband, my family, close friends, courageous business owners, community leaders, and mentors who focus on lifting others up and creating opportunities for those around them. Everyone I grew up with and spend a majority of my time with are people who are selfless, loving, supportive, and encouraging.
Professionally, I admire people who understand that success is about more than financial growth; it is about the impact we have on the people we serve. The clients, colleagues, and community members I have met throughout my journey have also shaped my perspective and reinforced my belief that meaningful relationships are at the center of every successful business.
GGBA: Why did you decide to join the GGBA, and how long have you been a member?
Kew Lew: I joined the GGBA because I wanted to be part of a community that supports LGBTQ+ professionals, entrepreneurs, and allies while creating opportunities for connection and growth. It has always been important for me to surround myself with people who value inclusion, diversity, and helping lift others as we keep climbing the mountain to personal success.
Since becoming a member two whole months ago, I have found the GGBA to be wonderfully welcoming, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping members succeed. It has been a wonderful way to build relationships and become more involved in the community. With the direction and enthusiasm of our current GGBA president, Aaron Boot-Haury, I see nothing but opportunities of promising collaboration, success, continued innovation and growth. These are very exciting times for the GGBA and I’m honored to be a part of it all.
GGBA: How has being a member of GGBA helped your business so far?
Kew Lew: The GGBA has introduced me to an incredible network of professionals, business owners, and amazing people who have the courage to pursue their dreams and visions of how they can serve the community. Through those relationships, I have been able to learn from them, expand my network, and discover opportunities to collaborate with organizations that share similar values.
Beyond business opportunities, the GGBA has helped me feel connected to a community that believes in supporting one another. Those connections are invaluable to me and are contributing significantly to both my professional growth and my sense of belonging as a business owner. I now have business-minded colleagues with whom I can exchange business-related ideas.
GGBA: Do you go to the GGBA monthly Make Contact networking events? Have they benefited you and your business, and would you recommend them to others?
Kew Lew: Yes, I try to regularly attend the Make Contact networking events and have found them to be undoubtedly valuable. They provide a welcoming environment where genuine relationships can be built without pressure. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking to grow their network, learn about the local business community, and connect with people who genuinely want to support one another. Whether you are a new member or a long-time business owner, there is always something to gain from attending.
GGBA: What other advice would you give to someone who is thinking of starting their own business?
Kew Lew: I would say, focus on serving people, not just selling to them. Ask yourself the question, “Using my strengths, experience, and skills, what can I do to help others?” The most successful businesses are built on trust, relationships, and a true desire to help others. Take time to understand the needs of your clients and look for ways to create value and trust. It’s important to be generous and give of yourself, but it’s equally important to recognize your own worth. Your knowledge, skills, and experience have value. People see that value. Accept it! Believe in it! And don’t be afraid to receive the rewards of the work you do!
I would also encourage new business owners to be patient with themselves. Building a business is a journey filled with learning opportunities, challenges, and growth. Stay connected to your purpose, remain open to feedback, and continue investing in relationships. Often, those relationships become your greatest source of support and opportunity.
GGBA: How do your images contribute to a company’s culture and brand?
Kew Lew: Photography is often one of the first ways people experience a company. My images communicate a company’s values, culture, and commitment to its people. When employees are represented thoughtfully and professionally, it sends a powerful message that they are valued. Strong visual representation helps organizations build trust with clients, attract talent, strengthen their brand, and create a sense of pride and belonging within their teams.
GGBA: Is there anything else that you would like to share?
Kew Lew: One of the things I love most about photography is its ability to change how people see themselves. A great photograph can remind someone of their strengths, their accomplishments, and their worth. Whether I am photographing a CEO, a recent graduate, a nonprofit leader, or an entire company, my goal is always the same: to help people feel confident, proud to represent themselves out in the world, and proud of who they are. When we feel love for ourselves, that positive energy spreads and inspires others to feel love for themselves.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe that Pride Month serves as an important reminder of the value of visibility, representation, and belonging. Throughout my career, I have seen how powerful it can be when people feel comfortable showing up as their authentic selves. Whether in front of a camera, in the workplace, or within our communities, feeling seen and accepted can have a lasting impact on confidence and self-worth, and can encourage and promote healing within our community and beyond.
I am grateful to be part of a community that values inclusion, connection, and supporting one another’s success. It is an honor to be featured, and I look forward to continuing to serve and celebrate the people and organizations that make the Bay Area such a vibrant place to live and work.
GGBA Member Spotlight
Published on June 25, 2026
Recent Comments