Shawn Lee House, Visual Storyteller | Admin Professional on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Visual Storyteller and Administrative Professional

Shawn Lee House

Visual Storyteller | Admin Professional, Shawn Lee Photography & Art

Kansas City, MO 64105

17Years experience
2Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree The University of Kansas – Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies; Professional Leadership Certificate Degree Metropolitan Community College – Associate of Arts Cert Certified Administrative Professional Cert IAAP Leadership Certificate of Service Member International Association of Administrative Professionals
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Cooperation is possible when you keep the basics in mind, listen to understand, respond to contribute to a solution, and remain respectful at all times.

Shawn Lee House · In Her Own Words

Her Story

About Shawn Lee

Shawn Lee House is a Kansas City–based professional photographer, entrepreneur, and creative storyteller whose passion for capturing meaningful moments began in childhood. With professional experience dating to 2009, she transforms her love of imagery into artistic work celebrating the people, places, and experiences that make Kansas City unique. Through Shawn Lee House Photography and Art, she creates distinctive visual content, including Kansas City postcards and vintage-inspired artwork.

Beyond her creative pursuits, House serves as an Administrative Coordinator at the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO). A University of Kansas graduate, she holds a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, an Associate of Arts degree, professional leadership certificates, and the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential.

House also hosts a weekly live podcast, expanding her passion for storytelling, networking, and community engagement. Guided by authenticity, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering others, she continues to build meaningful connections through creativity, professional excellence, and a belief in pursuing purpose with confidence.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Shawn Lee

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to a lifelong passion for photography, a commitment to continuous growth, and a deep appreciation for authentic storytelling. What began in childhood as a love for capturing candid family moments has evolved into a creative journey that I have nurtured professionally since 2009. Through every image, I strive to preserve meaningful memories, celebrate genuine connections, and tell stories that inspire. My work is rooted in authenticity, community, and the belief that when passion meets purpose, creativity becomes a powerful way to connect, uplift, and make a lasting impact.


02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I live by is simple: do it scared. I’ve learned that there is rarely a perfect moment to pursue a dream, take a chance, or step into something new. Sometimes, waiting until we feel completely ready means missing opportunities that could lead to growth and transformation. Fear and uncertainty are natural, but they don’t have to dictate our decisions. I remind myself that growth often begins just beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. Rather than talking myself out of an opportunity, I choose to take the leap, embrace the lessons, and trust the process. Sometimes, the most meaningful progress happens when we move forward before we feel ready.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

My advice to young women pursuing photography is to first discover who you are as a creative and understand the purpose behind your passion. You don’t need the most expensive equipment to begin; start with what you have, even if it’s just your cell phone. Focus on developing your eye, capturing meaningful moments, and learning to tell compelling stories through your images. Before investing in costly gear, explore your creativity and discover how your work can become art. Most importantly, believe in your vision, give yourself permission to be a beginner, and don’t wait until you feel completely ready to take the first step. Your talent grows through practice, your confidence grows through experience, and your possibilities expand when you dare to begin.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

One of my greatest challenges—and greatest opportunities for growth—is balancing the many hats I wear. Between running my photography business, working in an administrative role, and hosting a live podcast every Thursday, my schedule demands intention, discipline, and creativity. I’ve learned that building something meaningful requires more than talent; it takes consistency, strategic planning, and the courage to keep showing up. I also believe photography offers endless possibilities for those willing to build relationships, network, and share their work with the world. From Kansas City postcards to vintage-inspired imagery and artistic interpretations of the city, I’m continually discovering new ways to turn creativity into opportunity. My philosophy is simple: keep creating, keep connecting, and keep evolving. Even when the journey gets busy, I remain committed to growing my vision, expanding my business, and making room for every opportunity that aligns with my purpose.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Authenticity is my signature, and I believe in showing up unapologetically as myself in every space I enter. I lead with honesty, create with intention, and believe kindness is always in style. My personal philosophy is simple: empower, network, and create together. For me, success is about more than the bottom line; it’s about the people I meet, the relationships I build, and the impact we make together. I’m intentional about understanding my clients’ visions, delivering work that reflects their needs, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression. I believe trust is earned, relationships are cultivated, and excellence is demonstrated through consistency. My goal isn’t simply to do business—it’s to build meaningful connections, create boldly, and leave every person and community I encounter better for having connected with me.

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