We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kieran Segaloff. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kieran below.
Kieran, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, let’s take a stroll on memory lane, back to when you were an apprentice or intern. What’s a memorable story from that time that you can share with us?
Being a photographer is about creating meaningful work that captures moments in people’s lives so they can freeze time and revisit those cheerful occasions again and again.
My time as a second shooter, the industry term for the assisting photographer, is some of the most formative moments of my career. I wouldn’t be half the photographer, let alone the business owner, that I am today without those experiences shadowing others, learning from their wisdom, and building a network of support that continues to enrich my life.
One particular memory stands out—a night of excitement, nerves, and a few hard-earned lessons that still influence how I approach my work.
I primarily second shoot for Beth, a photographer whose talent I deeply admire. She is everything I aspire to be: calm, confident, and incredibly creative. So, when she invited me to assist her at a wedding in New York City, I was thrilled. As a photographer from central Virginia, shooting a wedding in Manhattan felt like a fairytale.
The night before the wedding, I carefully packed my gear. I triple-checked my camera, flash, batteries, and SD cards—or so I thought. My nerves buzzed as I envisioned the bustling venue, the radiant couple, and the fast-paced energy of a Manhattan wedding. The day of the wedding, my excitement was palpable. The ceremony was gorgeous, the couple glowed, and the venue was every bit as glamorous as I had imagined. But in my flustered state, I started forgetting the small steps that normally came as second nature.
It wasn’t long before my first mistake reared its head. As I worked through my shots, my SD card filled up faster than expected. Panic set in as I realized I had left my backup cards at my lodging. Embarrassed but with no other choice, I confessed to Beth. Her response was nothing short of saintly—she handed me a new card with a smile and told me not to worry.
Grateful for her kindness, I slid the card into my camera and got back to work. But in my haste, I forgot to format it. The card filled again too quickly, and the file names became jumbled—a rookie mistake that felt monumental in the moment.
And then, as if the universe wasn’t done teaching me lessons, my aging flash decided to overheat. Frantically, I swapped out AA batteries, feeling like a contestant in some cruel photography obstacle course.
Through all of this, Beth’s calm demeanor was a lifesaver. She didn’t scold or even roll her eyes; instead, she lifted me up and giggled with me as I scrambled to keep up.
Despite the mishaps, the photos I captured were beautiful. Beth’s unwavering confidence in me helped me push through my flustered state and focus on the moments that mattered. It taught me how to adapt, adjust for the moment, and create different art than I was used to.
The next morning, Beth and I sat on the steps outside a doctor’s office in Manhattan, eating bagels, borrowing the wifi, and swapping photos from our SD cards. As we reviewed our work, she shared her thoughts on the night before—not in criticism, but in encouragement.
“You did great,” she said, as I apologized for my scatteredness.
I became militant about my pre-shoot checklists. I bought new SD cards, upgraded my flash, and added “format SD cards” to my mental mantra. But beyond the technical lessons, Beth taught me something even more valuable: how to lead with kindness.
Her empathy and calm under pressure left a lasting impression on me. It’s a demeanor I strive to emulate with my own clients and colleagues. When things go sideways, as they inevitably do, I remember Beth’s example and aim to respond with grace and humor.
One of the most unexpected gifts of my work as a second shooter has been the network of support I’ve built. Beth is no longer just my mentor—she’s my friend, and now she’ll even be my second shooter at an upcoming wedding. This collaboration is a testament to the power of connection over competition.
In an industry where it’s easy to see others as rivals, I’ve found strength in fostering relationships instead. Every photographer brings their unique style and vision to the table; we’re not in opposition but rather part of a larger community. By lifting each other up, we create opportunities not only for ourselves but for the clients who benefit from our combined expertise.
I still jump at any chance to second shoot. Shadowing photographers, observing how they interact with clients, and witnessing their leadership styles continues to be invaluable. It’s a reminder that no matter how experienced you are, there’s always room for growth.
Some of the best opportunities in my career have come simply from asking. It’s not always easy to put yourself out there, but the worst thing someone can say is “no.” And if they do, you’ve saved your energy for the next opportunity.
That night in New York was a turning point for me, not because of the mistakes I made but because of how I grew from them. I learned to value preparedness, to give myself grace, and to appreciate the mentorship and camaraderie that make this journey worthwhile behind the scenes.
As photographers—and as business owners—we’re constantly learning. From our mentors, from our peers, and sometimes from the weddings where nothing seems to go right. These lessons shape not only our craft but also our leadership styles and the way we show up for others.
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.
Hi! I’m Kieran Segaloff, the owner and lead photographer of Fingerprint Photo Studio. FPS is a business built on my lifelong love of storytelling and celebrating diversity. Photography, for me, is more than just a profession; it’s a means of capturing the beauty and authenticity of people’s lives. I specialize in wedding and portrait photography, creating timeless images that reflect the uniqueness of each individual, couple, or family. My work is rooted in Central Virginia, though I’ve been fortunate enough to travel for clients who trust me to document their most cherished moments.
My journey into photography began with a background in photojournalism. I spent years honing my skills in capturing genuine, unscripted moments. Over time, I realized that my passion lay in documenting love in all its forms: friendship, pets, partners, parents, and all the unique ways love comes about. That passion inspired me to transition into wedding and portrait photography, where I could apply my documentary approach to create images that resonate deeply with my clients for years to come.
At Fingerprint Photo Studio, I offer a range of services tailored to meet my clients’ needs. My wedding photography focuses on capturing the full spectrum of emotions on a couple’s special day. From the quiet anticipation before the ceremony to the unrestrained joy on the dance floor, I ensure that every moment is preserved authentically. For portraits, I create a comfortable and collaborative environment, whether it’s for senior photos, family sessions, or professional headshots. My goal is always the same: to create images that reflect the subject’s individuality and story.
One of the biggest problems I solve for my clients is helping them feel at ease in front of the camera. I know that having your photo taken can feel intimidating or unnatural for many people, so I focus on building a rapport and fostering a sense of trust. By creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere, I allow my clients to be themselves, which results in photos that feel authentic and full of life.
What sets me apart in this industry is my commitment to celebrating diversity and individuality. As a queer woman, I understand the importance of inclusivity and representation. I’ve built my business around the idea that love is for everyone and that every story deserves to be told. My clients come from all walks of life, and I take pride in creating a safe and affirming space for everyone I work with.
I’m always amused in books and movies when people act like “Coming Out” is something a queer person only has to do once when in reality, it’s something an out person chooses to do every single day. I have my commitment to inclusion all over my website. In the beginning, I just had it in my “About” section where I talk about my wife, hobbies, dog, etc. I realized when I was on a call with a nervous young family asking me to confirm I worked with LGBTQ+ couples that this wasn’t enough. We shouldn’t have to feel scared about telling people we love each other, but all too often there’s a moment of holding your breath waiting for the bomb to drop of someone saying they don’t work with “people like you”. Thankfully I surround myself with an incredibly supportive network, but not all queer people have that option. My goal is to strengthen the support of others and continue to foster confidence in all people.
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built through my work. It’s an incredible honor to be invited into such personal moments, and many of my clients have become lifelong friends. I also find immense joy in knowing that the images I create will become treasured family heirlooms, passed down through generations.
Ultimately, I want potential clients to know that when they choose Fingerprint Photo Studio, they’re not just hiring a photographer. They’re partnering with someone who genuinely cares about their story, a new friend, and someone who is dedicated to preserving their moments in the most meaningful way possible.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
My journey into photography began when I was just 11 years old with a pink Samsung point-and-shoot camera, a gift from my grandmother. That little camera sparked a love for storytelling that shaped the course of my life. By early high school, I had landed my first paid gig: taking a friend’s graduation portraits. From that point forward, photography became a constant in my life, growing from a passion to a part-time business as I continued taking on assignments throughout high school, college, and even my years working in marketing.
In high school, I honed my skills by contributing to the literary magazine, capturing moments for school events, and working with friends and family on portrait sessions. When I went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Print Media from Old Dominion University, I knew photography would always play a central role in my career.
In 2020, during my senior year of college, I was awarded a research grant to travel across the country, documenting the socioeconomic effects of COVID-19 on small towns untouched by the disease itself. That road trip was a pivotal moment for me, combining my love for photography with a desire to tell meaningful, human-centered stories. Later that year, I published a book of poems and photographs exploring my own mental health struggles during the pandemic—a deeply personal project that allowed me to connect with others through my art. Both books are published under my maiden name, Kieran Rundle, and can be found at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes and Nobles: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AKieran+Rundle&s=relevancerank&text=Kieran+Rundle&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1
After graduating into a challenging job market, I took a role in marketing to build savings and expand my skill set. While I appreciated the experience, I never stopped pursuing photography. Even with a full-time job, I continued taking on photography assignments on evenings and weekends, working with clients on weddings, portraits, and other creative projects.
Running a part-time photography business while holding down a 9-to-5 job helped me refine my craft and taught me the importance of balance, perseverance, and time management. It also reinforced what I’d known all along: I wasn’t cut out for cubicle life. In mid-2024, with my wife cheering me on, I made the leap to focus on photography full-time, officially launching Fingerprint Photo Studio as my full-time business.
Today, Fingerprint Photo Studio offers wedding photography, portraits, senior sessions, and other special moments to clients who value authentic, timeless storytelling. I specialize in capturing love in all its forms, celebrating individuality, and creating images that will be cherished for generations. My photojournalistic approach, combined with a deep appreciation for diversity and authenticity, allows me to connect with clients and tell their stories in a way that feels both personal and artful.
What sets me apart is my dedication to inclusion. Every person regardless of race, gender identity, religion, or sexual orientation is welcome and celebrated at Fingerprint Photo Studio. For weddings and newborn photography, I also offer income based or unexpected life event sliding scales. These are monumental moments and everyone deserves to have them captured.
I’ve done photography for almost 15 years – that first pink camera to publishing my research in 2020, every step has prepared me to capture the meaningful, unrepeatable moments in my clients’ lives.
Turning my side hustle into a full-time business hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. I’m proud of the trust my clients place in me and the stories I’ve been privileged to tell. Every session is a new adventure, and I’m excited to keep building a business that celebrates life, love, and creativity.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Resilience is often forged in the face of adversity. My journey to becoming a photographer and business owner has been marked by challenges, but each one has shaped who I am today. The story of how I came to balance my health, passion, and career is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about learning to live authentically, with grace and determination.
In 2018, I was working as both a photographer and counselor at a summer camp for children with special medical needs—a place where resilience was woven into the very fabric of daily life. It was a job I loved, one that blended my creative passions with my desire to help others.
One fateful drive back to camp after a short break turned my world upside down. I crashed my car, and what seemed like a tragic accident turned into a life-altering revelation. The camp’s on-site doctor noticed a pattern in my symptoms, something no one else had pieced together. I was sent to a neurologist, where I was officially diagnosed with epilepsy.For years, I had struggled with mysterious health issues that seemed disconnected—The puzzle pieces fell into place. The diagnosis was both a relief and a challenge.
The rest of my health issues remained a mystery until more recently when a doctor thought to do immune testing after my seventh round of COVID19. (Seven! I know, that’s wild!) I have low IgG Subclass 3, a deficiency in a specific immunoglobulin that weakens my immune system against respiratory illnesses, certain viruses, and bacterial infections. This connected the other string of mysterious fevers and recurring lung issues. At 12, I endured an eight-month fever that caused me to miss almost half of seventh grade before it spiraled into pneumonia. Now, at 26, I have to use three different inhalers every day and do specific cardio to continuously strengthen the muscles of my lung wall that become increasingly damaged with each illness.
My health has shaped my life in ways I never imagined. Despite these challenges, I’ve never let them define me. Instead, they’ve fueled my determination to succeed.
In high school, I graduated as a business owner with top grades and earned an academic scholarship for college. At Old Dominion University, I worked even harder. I was president of my service sorority, worked three jobs, graduated summa cum laude from the honors college, and earned a degree I was proud of.
When I was younger, I often felt like I needed to overcompensate for my health, proving to myself and others that I was capable and smart. Over time, I’ve realized that my value doesn’t depend on working myself into exhaustion. Rest is not a weakness—it’s a vital part of resilience.
Today, as a wedding photographer and business owner, I’ve built a career that supports my health and empowers me to thrive. Being my own boss means no more explaining to managers why I need time off for hospital stays or testing. It means no more using up PTO for mid day doctor’s appointments, getting to go take that Monday 1:00 pm Zumba class, sometimes letting myself take a three hour nap on a Wednesday. I can answer emails in waiting rooms, edit galleries at odd hours, and accommodate myself and my clients.
Wedding photography comes with its own rhythm—many sacrificed weekends, busy seasons packed with shoots and editing, and quieter periods when I focus on family sessions and administrative work. This structure allows me to schedule rest and take precautions to avoid health triggers.
Living and working with chronic health conditions has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and balance. I’ve learned to listen to my body, to recognize my limits, and to prioritize my well-being.
My health challenges are continuously daunting, but they’ve also made me more determined, more resourceful, and ultimately, more grateful. I am so thankful for my wife, Sabine, pug, Francesca, and family for taking care of me through all the many difficult times and celebrating with me during the good ones.
Every wedding I shoot, every client I meet, and every milestone I achieve is a testament to the strength I’ve cultivated along the way. Being my own boss allows me to live on my terms, to adapt my work to fit my life rather than the other way around.
For me, resilience is about more than just surviving—it’s about thriving, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fingerprintphotostudio.com
- Instagram: @fingerprintphotostudio
- Facebook: @fingerprintphoto
Image Credits
Kieran Segaloff, Fingerprint Photo Studio