Meet Colleen Logan | Interior Designer and Lifestyle Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Colleen Logan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Colleen, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was a decision rooted in both personal and professional goals. I was beginning to grow my family and realized that the traditional 9–5 structure didn’t offer the flexibility I needed. On top of that, I wasn’t being compensated fairly for my skills and efforts.

I also had a strong creative drive—I wanted the freedom to pursue design and photography in my own way, without limitations. Launching my business gave me the opportunity to take ownership of my time, express my creativity more fully, and build a career that supports both my passion and my personal life.

It’s been incredibly empowering to create something that aligns with my values and allows me to grow both as a professional and a parent.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started my career in design working for a design-build company right after graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Interior Architecture and Design. It was a steep learning curve—being thrown into real-life projects taught me more than any classroom ever could. That hands-on experience shaped not only my technical skills but also pushed me to think creatively under pressure and find solutions in fast-paced environments.

Like many creatives, I’ve never been one to stay in just one lane. In the middle of the pandemic, I picked up a camera and started exploring photography. What began as a personal outlet quickly grew into a full-fledged business focused on lifestyle, family, couples, micro-weddings, and elopements. Now I’m lucky enough to run two creative businesses that allow me to express myself in completely different ways—one through spaces, the other through stories and connection.

What sets my work apart is the emotional layer I bring to both design and photography. I’m deeply invested in how people feel in the spaces they live in and how they remember the moments they live through. I take a lot of pride in creating with intention—whether I’m planning the flow of a home or capturing the joy in a fleeting moment.

Getting to where I am hasn’t been easy. Owning your own business brings constant challenges—especially learning to balance work and life, and even harder, learning to say “no” to things that aren’t the right fit. But every challenge has been a lesson, and each one has helped me grow—not just as a professional, but as a person.

What I want the world to know about my story is that it’s built on passion, adaptability, and a whole lot of perseverance. My brand isn’t just about beautiful work—it’s about heart. Whether I’m behind the lens or in front of a floor plan, I care deeply about creating something meaningful for every client I work with.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want to show them all the things that make Estes Park so special—starting with the outdoors, of course! We’d kick off the trip with a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park—maybe Gem Lake or Emerald Lake, depending on their energy level. There’s nothing like breathing in that crisp mountain air and soaking up those alpine views.

One morning, we’d take a scenic drive to Allenspark for breakfast at Meadow Mountain Café—a hidden gem that feels like home and serves up the coziest, most delicious morning plates. We’d follow that with a coffee date at Tahosa Coffee House, one of my favorite spots to relax and chat—it’s got that perfect quiet energy and amazing local brews.

For something a little different (and very Estes!), we’d play a round at the 18-hole golf course—it’s such a unique experience to golf while elk graze nearby and mountains rise in every direction. And after a day outdoors, we’d definitely grab dinner at Seven Keys Lodge—the food, the atmosphere, and the rustic charm all make it a must.

We’d mix in a little shopping downtown, an evening listening to live music at one of the local spots, and maybe even a night drive up Trail Ridge Road if the stars are out.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people who have played a role in my journey, and I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today without their support, guidance, and encouragement. First, I have to give a huge shoutout to my husband—he’s been my constant encourager, my sounding board, and the one who reminds me I can do hard things, even on the days I doubt myself. He also happens to be my bookkeeper, which, as any creative knows, is absolutely invaluable—because we tend to hate numbers!

I also want to recognize Valerie Dascoli, who I had the privilege of working alongside for over five years. Her mentorship and friendship have been truly instrumental to my growth. She taught me so much about the industry, professionalism, and trusting my creative instincts.

I’m also grateful for my experience at Westover Construction, where I learned foundational skills and gained the confidence I needed to eventually branch out on my own. I appreciate the role that time played in shaping my perspective and preparing me for the next chapter.

Brian Weber—a dear coworker and builder—was incredibly helpful in teaching me the ins and outs of construction. His willingness to share his knowledge and collaborate openly had a lasting impact on how I approach projects today.

And finally, shoutout to YouTube! During the pandemic, it became my classroom and creative playground. I started learning photography just for fun, watching tutorials and experimenting—and that hobby has since grown into a successful second career that I truly love. I’m so thankful for the access to that kind of knowledge and the way it opened new doors for me.

I’m incredibly thankful for each of these people—and platforms—that helped shape my journey.

Website: https://linktr.ee/studiologan

Instagram: studiologanimagery

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Studio-Logan-Imagery/61563903665103/

Image Credits
All imagery provided by me Colleen Logan Studio Logan Imagery