We were lucky to catch up with Kate Gwin recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kate, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
As a wedding photographer, my goal is to capture the essence of my client’s story and the emotions of their day that leave a lasting impact through their final collection. My overall intent is to take the photographs you would never think to put on a list, but that you would never want to live without. I do so by staying in tune to the moment, not glued to a checklist, but rather, approaching your wedding event with an awareness of the traditions and must-have takes while following the story as it unfolds. I believe that it’s the unwavering devotion — to the stories of my couples, and the art itself — that makes each image distinct, and ultimately unforgettable.
I lead a team with an approach that leans on the aesthetics of film photography, while relying on a photojournalistic direction to render more unposed captures — a signature experience that ensures that your vision won’t simply be understood, it will be illustrated with intention and an infusion of fine art details.
My hope is that my legacy will be a profound impact on clients, families, team members and other vendors reflecting the love of Jesus throughout each moment of a wedding day or session – focusing on staying present, exuding kindness and capturing sacred moments to be remembered in the hearts of the groups I photograph.
Kate, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Kate Gwin, a wedding and family photographer and owner of Haint Blue Collective. I got into photography during college, building a business through jobs and earning a Master’s degree in Art Eduction, as well as teaching high school for five years. Haint Blue Collective is a wedding photography business that serves couples in the southeast and anywhere their story takes them.
I am reminded at each wedding that what I photograph truly matters. The best part for me is being present in the moment with the couple, family and friends, documenting both the grand and intimate moments throughout the day. My desire is to model and lead a team internally in the moment with clients so that we can take photographs infused with purpose. This signature experience that ensures that your vision won’t simply be understood, it will be illustrated with intention and an infusion of fine art details.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe there is no “quick-fix” or “secret” to this. It is consistent hard work and loyalty to clients that fuels a reputation within your community. This takes time and intentionality. I stay true to who I am, working with all kinds of clients and taking all kinds of jobs – this, along with an incredible community of people who refer me to their friends and family helps build the reputation of my company within the Auburn area.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best source of new clients for me has always been referrals and Instagram. When clients feel cared for and understood, they want the people in their circle to feel the same way when having photographs taken. And Instagram is a beautiful tool for advertisement across state lines and all over the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.haintbluecollective.com/
- Instagram: @haintbluecollective
Image Credits
All photographs uploaded: Haint Blue Collective Headshot: Abigail Thomas Photography