Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Krienke.
Hi Lauren, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a former TV news reporter turned photographer.
I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in broadcast journalism. I then started interning at a TV news station back home in northern Illinois. That lead to a producer position, and then a reporter and fill-in anchor position. While at college and my first news job, I learned how to shoot my own video. I actually didn’t want to shoot my own stories, I wanted a photographer so I didn’t have to lug gear around. As a multi-media journalist, I filmed, edited, and wrote my own stories most days. My TV news career took my family and I to Austin in 2015. I worked for KXAN for 3 years. In 2018, my contract ended and I decided to stay home with our then-1-year-old daughter. As soon as I left, an opportunity arose to do a residency program at The Fellowship Church – our home church. I learned a lot of theology and I got to put together videos for the church. The church’s creative director taught me a lot about photography and how to use my camera that I bought a few years prior, with the intention of possibly freelancing one day. After my year-long residency ended, my good friends encouraged me to start my own photography business. I was pregnant with our second child, and thought there wasn’t any point. Little did I know that was the best time to start LK Photography & Videography – before the chaos of another child began. I didn’t think I was good enough, but I did it. I started with some very affordable mini-sessions to get more experience. It’s been 3 years since starting my business and I can say I’ve improved a lot! Lately, I’ve been getting the opportunity to photograph some weddings, which has been such a joy. To capture a couple’s most important day at that moment is truly special and I’m humbled and honored to be a part. In fact, photographing anyone is a privilege, as they trust me with their memories.
I still stay home with our 3 kids, and run my business on the side. I shoot a lot of family sessions, which I love, but I also photograph newborns, seniors, events, etc.
Growing up, my dad did photography as a hobby. He turned one of our rooms into a dark room – back before digital took over. I took photography classes in high school and college. I think I’ve always had an eye for photos and interest, but it’s news that actually taught me technical skills and lead me to this business. Looking back, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to film my own stories. I’m somewhere I never imagined I could be – running my own business and doing something I truly enjoy. I see God in the journey, every step of the way.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I don’t think any career is ever bump-free. Juggling 3 kids while trying to edit photos, is a struggle in itself. As I write this article, our littlest is crying. But that helps me keep my priorities in check. For me, it is family first, even though it’s hard to always balance the two.
Comparison creeps in every so often. With social media, I see other photographers’ work on the regular and I wish I could be as good. Many times, it’s a motivator to learn more, practice and get better. When I started this business, I took some classes to further my knowledge in photography. With every year, I see improvement, so that is a win. Also, there’s perspective. Every photographer is different, unique, with their own style. That’s encouraging to my own style.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
These days, I do more photography and shoot a lot of family sessions. I love capturing kids in their candidly crazy moments. Being a mom of 3 has given me plenty of practice on how to connect with littles. I’m proud of the attention to detail that I put into editing my photos. I edit little things that I think many photographers don’t, for example, a trash can in the far distance of the shot, or power lines in the distance, a stray hair, or tiny string on a shirt. What also sets me apart is making clients feel comfortable and relaxed during our sessions.
I also love to tell peoples’ stories through video. I help put together testimonials at our church. I think what sets me apart is my story-telling background from the news. Most of us have been moved by a movie or show we’ve seen. It’s entertaining and captures our attention, we can relate or empathize, and that’s what I believe my stories convey. From producing videos, I’m intentional about what shots we get, and how it all flows together to tell a person’s story. I’d also add that I’m pretty affordable compared to other local photographers, which I feel is fair based on my background and training.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can support me by considering me for their photography needs – whether that is a family session, wedding, or other occasions. Referrals are so helpful and much appreciated. Liking my social media accounts and my photos is a huge way to show support. And if you throw in a comment… well that’s amazing!
Pricing:
- Family sessions start at $250
- Wedding photography starts at $2,800
- Newborn photography starts at $300
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lkphotographyvideography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: @lkphotographyvideography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/LKphotographyvideography
Image Credits
Wildflowers Photography (Only credited for personal photo – the picture of me with my hair down looking at my camera)
