Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Genevieve Arjal. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Genevieve, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

My mission at Genevieve Kathleen Photography is to create photographic pieces that capture authentic expressions, emotions and connection. This method of photography showcases people, as individuals, couples or families in a way that is natural. There is no need for everyone to be looking at the camera, rather movement and conversation help create this type of photo. Everyday moments, families interacting and having fun or even a simple portrait become a piece of art. For me personally, this type of photo is more meaningful than one where everyone is looking at the camera. For families and couples I find that this style of photography is less stressful and less self conscious. When capturing natural interactions it also allows that photograph to become a memory. When photographing an individual for a portrait I strive to connect with the subject in a way that elicits a natural facial expression rather than a forced smile. This is particularly joyful for me when working with preschool students. I thoroughly enjoy the few moments I get with each child to see what facial expressions I can get during a conversation. It can be challenging at times, it is always loads of fun and exhausting in the best way.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My first career was as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Taking care of the youngest and smallest patients that exist is quite rewarding, however long hospital shifts are challenging when raising a young family. For the majority of my career I worked 24 hour shifts and that became harder and harder to maintain as I eventually had three children 4 years of age and under. Prior to having my first child I would photograph my friends pregnancies and newborns as a hobby. This hobby then became a business and I eventually took a break from my role as an NNP to focus solely on photography and have more time with my family. I found that what I missed most from the hospital setting was the connection I would make with families and the friendships I had with coworkers. I have been able to fulfill both of those within photography as I now make connections and often friendships with the families I photograph. I have also developed a network of photography friends. These friendships are essential for a social being such as myself because the majority of photography work is done alone. I started on this photography journey 14 years ago and I am proud to still be here!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

When I started my business I was living in the Pacific Northwest. It is easy to find photography clients when all your friends are having babies and you are surrounded by young families. Because of this was able to photograph families and also start doing preschool portraits. My network grew gradually and organically through referrals and I had never really focused on marketing. Two and a half years ago my family relocated to the Central Coast of California. For my business this has meant completely starting over. In order to keep my business going, or get it started in a new location, I had to make a conscious effort to focus on marketing, social media presence, donating photography sessions to school auctions and soliciting preschools. It is still a work in progress and I would be lying if I didn’t say that some days are hard and discouraging but ultimately I am up for the challenge.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I live in a fairly small town so growing my business has largely been through work of mouth. I strive to provide clear communication, a consistent product and be pleasant to work with. I believe if I do these things people will be repeat clients and refer me to their friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.genevievekathleen.com/
• Instagram: @genevievekathleenphotography

Image Credits
Photo credit to photo of myself: Kellie Rochelle Photography