Lisa Claire Bower, the talented house photographer at Kia Center, has carved out a unique niche for herself in the world of live music photography. Her journey began with a deep appreciation for capturing moments that evoke nostalgia and emotion. Growing up surrounded by her father’s photographic passion, Lisa developed an early love for preserving memories through images. This fascination led her to experiment with her own camera during her middle school years, where she discovered the joy of immortalizing everyday moments.

As Lisa matured, her interests in both music and photography intertwined, leading her to explore concert photography. Initially, she would sneak her camera into shows just to relive the musical experiences she cherished. Over time, she connected with professional photographers and learned the ropes from them. One pivotal conversation with Tanya Bowley, the marketing director at Kia Center, opened doors for Lisa. With persistence and resilience, she secured her first credential in 2013 and eventually became the house photographer at Kia Center in 2016.

Among the many memorable events Lisa has covered, meeting Cher stands out as a highlight. The pop icon's unexpected interaction with Lisa, praising her pink hair, left an indelible mark on her heart. Beyond the glitz of celebrity encounters, Lisa found solace and joy during the pandemic by befriending a squirrel named Blaine. Through creative setups and patient observation, she captured heartwarming moments that brought happiness not only to herself but also to others who viewed her photos.

In her downtime, Lisa enjoys exploring Central Florida’s theme parks and natural beauty spots like ZooTampa and Leu Gardens. Her advice to aspiring concert photographers is simple yet profound: kindness can open unexpected doors. Lisa’s story is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions and the positive impact it can have on oneself and the community around them.