Katy | While reading Katy's interview responses, our hearts were warmed. ♥ It is a beautiful, beautiful thing when you can just see someone glowing with passion... and she did! Katy is a talented and passionate photographer located in Belton, Missouri (a suburb of Kansas City, Missouri). It is our pleasure to feature her today! ***Photo of Katy and her family courtesy of Jenn Miller Photography. |
♥ Where did senior photography start for you? Why do you love it? "I started my business 7 years ago, and just by happenstance, a few of my first clients were high school seniors. I didn't feel the pressure to perform (like I do for families with little kids), and the seniors' excitement for getting ready to start their adult lives was contagious! Generally they are so warm and bubbly, and funny, and I can be pretty goofy--so I love when they can laugh right along with me. Seniors' eyes are always bright with new life possibilities and choices, and they take direction (most of the time) really well. Some sessions can start out with some nerves, but I love watching them relax throughout the session. That's when I know I'm doing a good job!" ♥ Name three of your biggest inspirations for senior photography. "Oh golly..it's hard to name just 3! There are so many talented photographers! On a national scale, I admire Amanda Holloway's work. Her work is amazing, and every portrait she takes looks effortless. Plus the way she has formatted her business is pure genius to me! She is definitely a huge inspiration! Skai Photograpy's light effused work is just breathtaking to me. All of her images are just so naturally beautiful. And on a local level, a Kansas City photography I truly admire is Heather Morrow (hocus focus). Her pictures are dreamy and natural and just downright gorgeous!" ♥ What are some words of advice that you have for all of those aspiring photographers out there? "Don't compare yourself to others' success. Be confident in your abilities as a photographer to capture your client's uniqueness. And trust your gut. Always. Stay true to who you are, and don't bend your creativity for people. Always remember that the client hired you because of your talents. Just remember that you rock...and that we all started somewhere." ♥ What is one big thing that you have learned since starting your own business? "I've learned that I really have to step out of my comfort zone. I am naturally a very shy person, but I am also a people pleaser. Melding those two personality traits of mine is something that I've worked very hard at. It's not always easy to strike up a conversation with a perfect stranger, but you have to do it. It's part of making your client feel comfortable. I have to let my insecurities fly out the window if I am going to give 100% to my clients. And the business side is very exhausting. I wish every client knew that more than 50% of our job is dealing with taxes, insurance, and so many other little side things to keep our businesses running successfully. But in the end, it's all been so worth it!" ♥ Let's talk editing! Where did you learn your gorgeous editing technique? (Holy smooth skin!) "Haha--you're sweet! My editing technique has been trial and error for the most part! When I first started my business, I used Microsoft Editing software. Then I quickly moved to Lightroom, but my heart and soul is with Photoshop. Photoshop can be VERY intimidating, but you have to remember that you won't break your computer trying different things. I watched a lot--a LOT-- of YouTube videos. It took me a long time to find my "style" but I think I've definitely found it now. I love haze, but I use it sparingly. I love golden light, but I try not to make it the focus of the picture. You have to remember that these pictures are about the SENIOR, not the beautiful flowers or trees. And the lovely skin on my seniors? Well, some of that is genetics, and the rest of it is from a free action from CoffeeShop. Secrets out!" | Katy Gitto Photography Interview |