We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kaptured By Kyle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kaptured by Kyle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

Choosing to pursue a career as a photographer represents the most significant risk I take each day. Owning a business entails numerous sacrifices, the most notable being the missed opportunities to attend events and gatherings hosted by family and friends. It is indeed ironic that my profession revolves around preserving memories, yet I often miss the chance to create my own. However, I recognize that this career has afforded me the opportunity to travel the world and provide for my family. Ultimately, I believe the risks I undertake are worthwhile.

Kaptured by Kyle, 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?

I am in my Photographer Era!
I say that in respect to the “eras” which I have lived.

It is what distinguishes me from others-my ability to weave my diverse creative passions into my photography. My extensive background in dance informs the way I pose my subjects, while my affinity for songwriting enables me to narrate a story through elements such as clothing, colors, and the placement of the model. Additionally, as a clothing designer, I strive to understand the intentions behind other designers’ creations, appreciating the messages they seek to convey through their pieces.

I take great pride in the accomplishments I have achieved as a photographer, many of which were unforeseen when I initially embarked on my photography career.

My passion for photography ignited when my best friend, Ashley Strickland Smith, required an album cover for her new single, “That’s Where I Belong,” set to be released internationally on major streaming platforms. We convened at her grandmother Memaw’s house to discuss her vision for the cover. Given that “That’s Where I Belong” is a love song, the project held special significance for both of us. A fun fact: I was present in the studio in Tennessee when she recorded the song, and I was moved to tears by my pride in her. During the photoshoot, I felt a profound sense of purpose; being behind the camera was both enjoyable and effortless, especially with my best friend by my side. We ultimately captured a shot of Ashley looking over her shoulder while holding her great-grandmother’s floral scarf.

After the shoot, I found myself standing in the camera aisle at Best Buy in Anderson, South Carolina, contemplating the necessity of purchasing my own camera. My rationale was straightforward: acquiring the camera would yield a return on investment through Homecoming and Prom photography.

That year, I had only one couple for Prom—Ashley’s sister, Chel’c (also my best friend), and her date (now husband), Bryce.

There were numerous moments when I considered selling my camera to pursue a conventional career, yet I convinced myself that my time would come.

The following year, I met Zoe Saavedra and her family at Toccoa Falls for our first of many photoshoots. I photographed Zoe sitting on a rock, gazing into the camera with her striking, rare green eyes. That single photograph altered the course of my business.

A few years later, I was contacted on Instagram by another talented photographer, Caleb Tompkins. After exchanging messages, we met at Centerfield coffee shop, which proved to be a pivotal moment not only for my business but for my life. I remember leaving that meeting and calling my friend Brandon, excitedly sharing that I had found the missing piece to my photography journey. Caleb and I complemented each other perfectly—he possessed the technical expertise while I provided the foundation in posing and style. Caleb thrived without a structured plan, whereas I relied on organization. Eventually, he became captivated by videography, and together we formed a photography and videography duo for weddings. We traveled the country, capturing precious moments and memories, enjoying a friendship that allowed us to spend every day together. Even when Caleb moved an hour away, we made the effort to reunite weekly for pizza or sushi.

In 2021, tragedy struck when Caleb lost his life in a devastating accident. This remains the most challenging experience I have ever faced. I often express that I lost not only my best friend but also a business partner. Photography had been a joyful pursuit for me, largely due to Caleb’s presence. Our partnership thrived on collaboration rather than competition, and the thought of picking up a camera again seemed insurmountable.

One of the most difficult aspects of my career has been fulfilling the weddings we had booked together before Caleb’s passing. While all the couples graciously offered me the option to withdraw from their weddings, I chose to persevere.

I want the world to understand that my story and brand transcend monetary value. My commitment to my craft is a tribute to Caleb’s memory, and I strive to honor him in every endeavor.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The most significant moment in my career requiring a pivot occurred following the tragic passing of my best friend and business partner, Caleb. Together, we formed a dynamic wedding photography and videography duo. Few may know that Caleb had been considering stepping away from videography to pursue further education. While this represented a substantial shift in our professional relationship, our friendship never wavered.
Caleb possessed a brilliant mind and an insatiable curiosity, so his desire to explore new interests did not surprise me. In the days following his death, I struggled to envision myself photographing weddings or even picking up my camera again. We had several wedding commitments for which we had already been compensated, and I found that many couples were willing to excuse me from these obligations, with some choosing not to hire another videographer because it didn’t feel right to them.
Ultimately, I decided to honor our shared commitments. Although it was sad for me, I knew that this was what Caleb would have wanted. He always kept his word, and this principle continues to motivate my pursuit of photography today. I often say, “I am not filling his shoes, but standing beside them.” Since Caleb’s passing, I have had the privilege of photographing significant life events for his family—such as his sister’s (Jordan, Anna Grace, & Sarai) maternity photos, newborn portraits for his niece Leah, and his youngest sister’s (Hope) wedding.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The goal is to cultivate relationships with clients that evolve into close friendships, and in some cases, familial bonds, where they offer unconditional support for your business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kapturedxkyle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kapturedxkyle
• Facebook: Kaptured by Kyle

Image Credits

Genesis Arrow Brown – Butterflies & Ties
Hannah G – Sherri Hill New York Fashion Week
Haleigh Hurst – Sherri Hill
Keely Emmons
Grace Anniston Ellis – Paul Rekhi
Sherri Hill New York Fashion Week
Raegan Drane – Dressing Dreams – Sherri Hill
Delaney Davis – Sherri Hill