In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Irisjan Pereles, a professional photographer, homeschool mom, and community advocate originally from Puerto Rico. Iris shares her journey of moving to Lakeland in 2017 and how her passion for capturing moments evolved into a powerful mission of faith, hope, and community building.
The conversation highlights Iris’s extensive background in photography, which she began professionally in 2005. Since arriving in Lakeland, her work has transitioned from weddings and large events to focusing on brand photography and collaborations. She discusses how she uses her skills to help local influencers, nonprofits, and new brands find their voice and visual identity. Iris also reflects on her homeschooling journey, which began in 2019, and how documenting their daily life during the pandemic led to a thriving social media presence that resonates with families both locally and back home in Puerto Rico.
Deeply personal and inspiring, Iris opens up about her faith and her self-published testimonial (available in Spanish, with an English version in progress). She shares how experiencing profound loss at a young age led her to use photography as a way to preserve memories and eventually as a tool for ministry. Her mission is to provide empathy and hope to those struggling with grief, emphasizing that it is our duty to give back the love and support we receive during hard times.
Don and Iris also celebrate the unique spirit of the Lakeland community. From the supportive network of homeschoolers to the collaborative nature of local business owners, Iris expresses her amazement at how Lakeland fosters growth and connection. This episode is a beautiful look at how passion, when combined with a heart for service, can create a lasting impact. 63
