Junior Laney Walden thrives as a student, as a member of WSHS Theatre Troupe 513, and as the owner of her own business. 

This year is Walden’s third year as a member of Troupe 513. She has participated in recent shows such as “Brightstar” and the upcoming production of “The Outsiders”.

Walden also runs her own photography business Emmarose Photography. Starting a business for most can be the most difficult part of the process, however not for Walden.

 “When I turned 15, I wanted to get a job to start saving more money for gas and car insurance since I’d start driving the next year. I already was taking photos for people and sometimes getting paid for it,” Walden explained.  “My mom knew I enjoyed it and brought up the idea of starting the business.”

Following her mom’s suggestion, Walden put a few months into researching how to successfully start a business, like making a logo, creating a website and establishing a business email. 

“By January, I had my business and my first photoshoot scheduled as Emma-Rose Photography,” Walden stated. 

Some businesses may be a partnership, however not with Walden. “I am the sole person. I have of course had help from my parents, and they have supported me in various ways. However, I don’t have a partner and the business is licensed under my name,” Walden said. 

Looking at the Emma-Rose Photography Instagram, it is evident that Walden has a steady amount of business, but being a student comes first. 

 “It can be difficult because I would love to be more focused on my business; but with going to school for several hours and then having homework, it definitely gets put on the back burner,” Walden said. 

Walden said she is good at balancing her time so that she can be productive in both areas.  “The less homework I have, the more I can focus on it and more time for editing and photoshoots,” Walden explained. 

“I really enjoy it. There are some frustrating aspects with the business side of things or when technology isn’t working correctly; but overall, I love it,” Walden said.  

Walden’s passion for photography started at a very young age. “My grandparents had a camera at their house so when I was younger I would always ask to take pictures on it. I would go around their backyard and take pictures of flowers and their dogs, and I think that’s what really got me interested,” Walden explained.

Every photographer has a certain style of photography. Walden focuses on using her Nikon D3400 to take more portrait and editorial-style photos. 

“Josh Tu does sports photography/videography; and he’s in college currently, so I thought it was cool how he’s also a student. Additionally, there’s an 18-year-old named Charis who takes super cool editorial style pictures that have inspired some ideas for photo shoots,” Walden said.

Walden manages to balance school, theater, and her business.  “If my extracurriculars are busy then it can be difficult, but I sometimes get to combine them. I’ve done photos for theater shows; and when I played soccer, I took photos for the team,” Walden said.

In addition to her many accomplishments, Walden is proud of her community. 

 “As much as I don’t love Ohio, I actually really love Westerville. There are great locations for photoshoots and so many cool places to go for walks/bike rides.”