Today we’d like to introduce you to Kylee Kirby.
Hi Kylee, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I think it all started when I was a little girl. I would go through thousands of photos with my Mom and Mimi that they had collected over the years. Seeing these photos would bring me so much joy. We would talk about memories and I would ask questions about who these people were in the photos, where they were taken, what year they were taken in.
Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money, but my Pappaw would buy me used cameras that he would find at pawn shops. I took pictures of literally everything. As I got older and cell phone camera quality increased — I was the friend that was “always taking photos.” People have told me for the longest time that I had “an eye” and was able to capture people in their greatest form.
I started modeling in 2018 and I ended up really falling in love with the art and creative back end of things. I loved how every session was different. Each photographers edits were all unique. I started to ask more in depth questions about editing, lighting and posing.
In 2019, my fiancé’s parents bought me a Canon Rebel T6 for Christmas. I never thought I would actually be a “real” photographer, I just enjoyed taking photos. One day I was sitting at my friend Laura’s house and her friend called her and asked if she knew anyone that did photography. Laura mentioned me and I ended up doing Elizabeth’s photos, the rest is history. I created an Instagram page and I started charging for sessions. That was in November 2020. Fast forward a year and I am booked out a month in advance and am hoping to be a full-time photographer by this time next year.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road. I have faced many challenges in life. Many people assume photographers just click a button, which is not the case. Photography requires a lot of practice, expensive equipment and time. I am also a full-time nanny and entrepreneur which doesn’t allow much additional time for me to practice my skill. But I also believe with any hobbies, passions or jobs –you are going to have obstacles. If you are willing to overcome these hardships and learn from them then you have found your calling. Photography is extremely complex and there are so many skills that are required to succeed.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an outdoor, natural light photographer. I specialize in lifestyle photography. I strive to capture humans in their natural, raw and genuine state. I have the most experience currently in family, couples and portrait-styled sessions.
I am proud of how dedicated I have been. I am the type of person that gets bored easily or even gives up on hobbies quickly. But with photography, my drive and willingness to learn has been unmatched. I research, I observe and invest every day in my craft.
I believe what sets me apart from others is my ability to make people feel comfortable. I have discovered that about myself recently especially since becoming a photographer. I am always 100% authentically myself which makes it easier for everyone to feel comfortable doing the same. I would like to consider myself personable and trustworthy.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Wow. This question could have an entire novel. I have an entire army behind me at ALL times. I would personally like to thank each and every one of them.
First, my fiancé Devin. The person who sees every single side of me. Day in and day out. The person who sees the photographer who is happy and excited after arriving home from an amazing session. But also sees the photographer who is tired and overwhelmed. The one who understands me having to edit on my laptop and respond on my phone most hours of the day. The one who has supported every single passion and hobby of mine. S/O to you and if you’re reading this –I love you and thank you.
ALL of my family. My mom, sisters, Mimi, Pappaw and my Aunt sis who sadly isn’t here on earth anymore to watch me grow on this journey.
My friends, especially Laura and Brianne. These girls are my biggest fans. Always recommending me, booking sessions, sharing/liking/commenting on all of my social media posts. Hyping me up day in and day out and reminding me how amazing I am.
My fiancé’s family for always loving and supporting me and for gifting me the camera I currently use. Plus, adding to my equipment each Christmas.
Photographer Caitlin Mathews, who has been more than just a mentor, but a friend. Who is always willing to help, teach and guide me.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without these people. I am truly so grateful.
Pricing:
- Couples Sessions $150.00
- Weddings/Elopments $150/HR
- Family Sessions starting at $125.o0
- Maternity Sessions $175.00
Contact Info:
- Email: kkirbyphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kkirbyphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyleekirbyphotography
