Meet Linda V Leyva | Founder and Creative Lead Photographer for LVL Studios

We had the good fortune of connecting with Linda V Leyva and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Linda V, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business is rooted in the belief that it must be part of your greater purpose, almost like a personal ministry in life. True fulfillment comes when you’re driven to serve others through your work. For me, it was about asking myself, ‘What is my purpose in this business?’ and letting everything else follow naturally from that intention. I also believe deeply in empowering others along the way, while keeping my ego in check and surrounding myself with a strong support system that does the same, yet encourages me to keep moving forward in faith.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been quite a journey, spanning across different industries and roles. Some of the accomplishments I’m most proud of include serving as a Project Manager for Southern California Edison, being a board member for a non-profit organization, and managing marketing efforts for various companies. Each of these roles has shaped me in unique ways, allowing me to develop leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to work with diverse teams.

Even though my career has touched many different industries, there was a time when I wasn’t sure what my true passion or direction was. But looking back, I now see how every piece of the puzzle fits together perfectly. Without the extensive experience I’ve gained—and the patience to learn from others, collaborate, and grow as part of a team—I wouldn’t be able to do what I do now. God’s plans for us are ridiculously perfect, even when we don’t fully see them in the moment.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that everything I do, I do with purpose. My work is not just about capturing images; it’s about empowering people and telling their stories in ways that inspire and uplift. That’s what drives me, and it’s what makes LVL Studios stand apart.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to show them a mix of LA’s best spots. We’d start with brunch at The Huntington Library and Gardens, enjoying the beautiful botanical views. For dinner, we’d head to Broken Spanish in downtown LA for some upscale Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

We’d spend a day in Malibu, strolling along the beach, grabbing lunch at Malibu Farm, and then enjoying a wine-tasting afternoon in the Malibu hills – very sad Stanley the Giraffe is no longer there. Another must is a night at The Edison in downtown LA, a speakeasy-style bar with vintage vibes and live entertainment.

To wrap up the trip, I’d take them to the Arts District to soak up some creative culture, finishing with a relaxing Thai massage at my favorite spa in Silverlake, The Raven. It would be a perfect blend of relaxation and LA’s vibrant energy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I dedicate this shoutout to my Father God and King, Jesus Christ. Secondly, to my rock and amazing husband, Bernardo Leyva, and my patient, loving children—your unwavering support means the world to me. I also want to recognize all the mentors I’ve had, as well as the wonderful support from my friends and church family at The Bridge in Pasadena, CA. Their prayers and guidance have been invaluable. It’s because of them that I’m able to realign my focus on Christ, giving me the endurance and faith to continue moving forward.

Website: https://www.lvl-studios.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lvl.studios

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindavanessa/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LVLstudiosLA/

Other: https://tiktok.com/lvlstudios

Image Credits
Andrea Rao , Giselle Venture (Ramirez), Vanessa Argier, Sofia Barrinetos, Cassie Jimenez, Bryan Rosales, Leshell Dortch, Evelyn Bartz