April 2025 Business of the Month
Elena Dilai Photography
It’s always a pleasure to recognize a local business that not only brings talent and professionalism to our community, but also heart, artistry, and purpose. This month, the Webster Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor Elena Dilai Photography, LLC as our Business of the Month.
Elena Dilai’s journey into photography began as many great stories do — rooted in passion, curiosity, and love. What started as a “mom with a camera” moment evolved into a full-blown artistic journey, with Elena’s work earning national and international recognition. From still life and travel to architectural photography, her early work was featured in places like the Image City Photography Gallery and Rochester Contemporary Art Center.
But it was through a twist of fate — and maybe a little destiny — that Elena found her true calling in portraiture. Her ability to capture emotion and create painterly, fine-art portraits is what truly sets her apart.
In 2022, Elena took a leap and founded Elena Dilai Photography, LLC. With the growing demand for her unique portraiture and a deep desire to provide a full-service experience for her clients, she and her husband Igor — her biggest supporter and unofficial business partner — purchased and lovingly renovated an old church right here in Webster. That church, located at 1864 Ridge Road, is now one of the most unique and beautiful portrait studios in the region, featuring high-beamed ceilings, stained glass windows, and a warmth that reflects Elena’s artistry and care.
Elena doesn’t just take photos — she creates experiences. From personalized styling consultations, to professional hair and makeup, to hand-crafted albums, she delivers not just portraits, but timeless works of art that families will cherish for generations.
She is especially known for her “40+ and Fabulous” series — a portrait experience that celebrates mature beauty, confidence, and legacy. As the only local photographer who specializes in this area, Elena is empowering women to see and celebrate themselves at every stage of life.
When asked what she loves most about her work, Elena says it’s the opportunity to connect with people, learn their stories, and give them something tangible — something real — in a world filled with fleeting cell phone snapshots and digital noise.
While Elena currently operates without full-time employees, she partners with a team of expert hair and makeup artists to provide a top-tier experience to every client.
Beyond her photography, Elena’s impact on the community is extraordinary. Since 2003, she’s served as a professor of mathematics at Monroe Community College and has received numerous awards, including the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service. Originally from Ukraine, Elena is a pillar in Rochester’s Ukrainian-American community, serving in numerous leadership roles and currently as Secretary of RocMaidan, a nonprofit providing medical and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Elena’s talent has not gone unnoticed — she was recently named one of the Top 100 Photographers in the World by WPE, earned Associate Accreditation from The Portrait Masters, and has studied under some of the most respected photographers in the world. Her image “Enduring Spirit” recently won the Susan B. Anthony Museum Award at RoCo, and several of her works have reached the finals in the Professional Photographers of America’s International Competition.
Elena Dilai brings exceptional artistry, service, and compassion to everything she does. And we are incredibly proud to have her — and her stunning studio — right here in Webster.
Please join me in congratulating Elena Dilai Photography, LLC, our Webster Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month!
Click here to see previous Business of the Month Honorees