We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alyssa Kaye. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alyssa below.

Alyssa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

Reflecting on my parents’ influence on my life and career, I’m filled with gratitude for the foundation they provided. As a family photographer specializing in capturing the essence of nature and the simple joys of parenthood, their legacy resonates in my work.

From a young age, my parents instilled in me a love for the outdoors. Whether it was hiking through rugged trails or camping beneath the stars, they cultivated a connection to nature that has shaped my perspective on life. I fondly recall summers spent exploring national parks and immersing myself in the beauty of the wilderness. My dad’s passion for landscape photography and my mom’s talent for scrapbooking captured these cherished moments, creating a visual narrative of our adventures.

As I navigate my own journey as a parent, I draw inspiration from their unwavering support for my dreams, even though I wasn’t sure exactly where my dreams were taking me. When I veered off the conventional path and pursued a career as a seasonal outdoor environmental educator, they encouraged me to embrace my passions and document the experience. Gifted with a camera and a notebook, I started on a path of self-discovery, guided by their belief in my potential.

While no parent is without flaws, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact of their love and encouragement. Through the highs and lows of life, their unwavering support has been a guiding light towards authenticity and fulfillment. As I document the fleeting moments of family life through my lens, I strive to embody the same sense of love and acceptance that they gave to me.

Sure, my parents weren’t perfect, but who is? They did their best, just like I’m doing now with my own child. At the end of the day, it’s all about love, support, and making memories – and that’s something I want to pass on through my work as a family photographer. I aspire to create a space where families can celebrate their unique stories and cherish the magic of everyday moments.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m on a mission to capture the authentic, raw moments that make life so beautiful. It all started when I first picked up a camera and noticed a common issue: people were left on their own to prepare for their photoshoots, often feeling nervous and unsure of what to expect. I craved images that told a full story, one that truly reflected the individuals, totally comfortable in the photographs and the world around them, because they knew they could totally be themselves.

What I offer is more than just a photoshoot – it’s a guiding hand from start to finish, a journey of mindfulness and connection in places you love. I’m here to be your trusted companion, ensuring that every moment of your experience is relaxed, natural, and fully in the moment. Whether it’s feeling the sun on your face, exploring the intricacies of nature, or simply cuddling on the grass, each moment is an opportunity to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty around us. No stiff studio spaces, perfect outfits or forced smiles – just genuine connection and heartfelt moments.

With a background in environmental education, I’ve always understood the importance of connecting with nature. So, I set out to merge my love for the great outdoors with my passion for capturing human connection. The result? A photography experience that takes you on a journey of mindfulness, exploration, and connection amidst the enchanted natural spaces of Aberdeenshire and Scotland.

But beyond capturing wonderous scenes, I believe in the power of memories. Your photos aren’t just images – they’re timeless treasures that capture the essence of who you are and the love that fills your life. And with each passing year, their value only grows.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of discovery, connection, and wonder, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Because life is too beautiful not to be captured, cherished, and celebrated.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is all about helping families enjoy the simple joys of life together. Whether it’s a playful romp through a sunlit meadow or a cozy cuddle under a tree, I want to capture those moments that make you smile and feel grateful for the time spent with your loved ones.

For me, it’s about promoting quality time outdoors, where parents can bond with their kids, make memories, and have fun together. I aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience where families can simply be themselves and have a good time.

Ultimately, my goal is to provide families with photos that they can look back on and feel happy, remembering the laughter, the love, and the little adventures they shared together. It’s all about celebrating the beauty of family life and creating lasting memories that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

My journey has been marked by resilience and growth. Moving around frequently, trying my hand at new jobs, and embracing some of the freedom of a long distance relationship in my 20s, (from Michigan to various states in the U.S. and eventually to Scotland with my husband), I often struggled with self-doubt and loneliness. Recently, I found myself deeply unhappy in another job that left me feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from my purpose. I reached a turning point when I realized the toll my unhappiness was taking on my health. I knew that in order to be a happy, fulfilled mother for my child, I needed to prioritize my own well-being. I yearned to make a meaningful impact on the world, to bring light and joy to people’s lives, even if in some small way.

I found purpose in photography. A creative outlet that allowed me to express myself and capture moments of beauty in the world around me. I not only discovered a newfound passion but also continued my journey of healing.

As I honed my skills and immersed myself in the world of photography, I began to rebuild my confidence and sense of identity. Each click of the camera shutter was a step forward, a reminder of my determination to create a life filled with purpose and joy. Photography to me is more than just taking pictures; it’s about storytelling, connecting with others, and finding beauty in the everyday.

Today, as a mother and a photographer based in the beautiful landscapes of Scotland, surrounded by a welcoming community, I’m grateful for the journey that led me here.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alyssakayephoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssakayephoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssakayephoto/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssakparker/