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

Andrew, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us a bit about who your hero is and the influence they’ve had on you?

My hero is my father, Justin. He is actually the reason why I pursued wedding photography in general and was the person who taught me everything that I know about photography today. I’ve learned so many different soft skills while working with him that he’s been a great influence on my own business. His patience has been extremely helpful for our relationship as he’s taught me how to be patient myself, which in an industry like weddings is an incredible boon. I’m extremely grateful that I had the opportunity to learn the industry under him, especially since I’ve had to adapt to such a fast-paced social environment as an awkward and introverted young adult. With his constant reassurances and more importantly, opportunities presented to me to continue working in the field, I’ve grown to appreciate and enjoy what I do. I don’t think I have any special moment or story that really shows his influence on me, but there has been so much consistency in his influence. His desire to fulfill customer expectations and to go further beyond them is something that’s a core principle in my own business. Although, I show it in a different way from his company, having excellent customer service has always been my priority and I love being able to create peace and calm out of an already hectic and emotionally dense day. My father has not only taught me photography but also how to effectively and caringly run a business.

Andrew, 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 Andrew Kim, the owner of Beauty in Focus Photography. I first got into the wedding photography business through my father whom I still work with today. I provide photography mainly for weddings, but have tried out other forms of photography whenever the opportunity arises. My business focuses on providing quality photography services for any sort of occasion. As a photographer, my first job is to document and photograph, but I have plenty of other priorities whenever I’m working with someone. I’m essentially involved with all steps of the process which involves brainstorming ideas and locations, photographing the subject, making sure the process is fun and relaxing for said subject, the photo editing process that happens afterward, and the smooth delivery to the client. I think the most important part of my photography is the customer service experience, I want to make sure that the photography process is understandable, enjoyable, and human first and foremost. I think becoming friends with whomever I’m photographing makes the entire session so much more enjoyable for both sides and really allows me to provide proper care and attention to bring the photographs to life. I’m most proud of how I’m able to create a calm and smooth environment for people who are anxious about photography to be able to stand in front of a camera without fear.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I think the freedom is the most alluring part of being an artist/creative and it’s definitely a perk that draws in many people to become one. The freedom has been extremely rewarding for my life as I’m able to choose the kind of work that I want to be engaged with. It allows me to be present in so many aspects of my life as the balance I get from both serving clients and living my own life is very invaluable. Whenever I work with clients and create photos that they’ll love, I know for certain that I’m completely present and want to create these images.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I think the pivot for this business was actually what led to its creation. I remember specifically a moment when I was burning out about working in the wedding photography industry and had to have an honest conversation with myself about whether or not I could continue. Although Beauty in Focus is very young, I’ve been in the wedding photography industry for a long time working alongside my father. The moment where I had to question my continuation was during an extremely busy season where I had around 10 events in a few weeks and could feel myself getting drained physically and emotionally. It was at that moment I realized the way I was approaching wedding photography was wrong and that I needed to truly bring myself into the moment and what it represents. Weddings are one of the most important events that a person and their family will experience, and I needed to recognize that the photos that I create will be how these people relive their special day. This led me to fully commit myself to this industry and work harder to produce not only great photos but great memories for the client.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beautyinfocusphoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautyinfocusphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeautyInFocusPhotography

Image Credits
All of these images belong to me. Beauty in Focus Photography