We caught up with the brilliant and insightful KAITLYN KOHN GODBEE a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
KAITLYN, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?
In 2008, I was in my junior year of high school. For our end-of-year final, we had something called Junior Exhibition, where we had to choose a career path, break down what it takes to succeed in that field, and present it to a panel of teachers. While none of us were expected to have our futures figured out, the project gave us space to explore what life might look like after graduation. Some of my classmates chose careers in business, the trades, or entrepreneurship.
I chose to be a photographer.
That was the moment I fell in love with the idea of turning something I was becoming passionate about into something I could actually do for the rest of my life. You know that quote, “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life”? That was me—just a girl with a dream. But no amount of research could’ve prepared me for the rollercoaster of turning that dream into a real, functioning business. The passion was there, but the path was definitely not easy or clear-cut.
I went on to attend The Art Institute of California – Orange County and in 2011, I earned my Associate of Science degree in Digital Photography. While I was there, I took courses not just in photography but also in graphic design, fashion, and color theory. I landed internships with event photographers at Into the AM (an entertainment company) and with editorial photographer Sean Armenta, where I got to assist on shoots for PBS, Newport Beach Magazine, and more.
So much has changed over the past 15+ years — in tech, in social media, in how the photography industry functions as a whole. Navigating all of that throughout my 20s was a challenge.
And honestly, the business side of photography is still something I’m figuring out. It hasn’t always been easy. There have been times of burnout, moments of self-doubt, and seasons where the bookings weren’t flowing. But the thing that’s never changed is how much I love photography itself — the joy it brings to people when they see themselves captured in a new light, the way it allows me to tell stories, freeze memories, and express myself creatively. That’s the part that makes it all worth it.
I didn’t come into this business because I thought it would be easy or wildly profitable overnight — I pursued it because I knew, deep down, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. And even when things get tough, that passion is what keeps me going.
KAITLYN, 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?
Hi! I’m Kaitlyn Kohn, a Southern California-based photographer and visual artist behind Kaitlyn Kohn Visuals. I specialize in creative portraits, milestone sessions, beauty shots, branding content, and lifestyle photography — basically, if it involves capturing who you are and what you love, I’m your girl.
I got into photography as a teenager and never looked back. Over time, what started as a creative outlet turned into a career centered around storytelling, connection, and helping people feel confident and seen. I earned my degree in Digital Photography from The Art Institute of California – Orange County, where I also studied color theory, graphic design, and visual storytelling — all of which still influence the style and intentionality behind my work today.
Through Kaitlyn Kohn Visuals, I offer services that help individuals and brands feel represented, celebrated, and elevated. Whether it’s a branding shoot for an entrepreneur, a headshot for someone starting a new chapter, or a beauty session that’s simply for fun — my goal is to create images that feel like you, just a little more magical.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend color, mood, and personality into each session. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all shoots. I take the time to understand each client’s vision and vibe so the photos feel personal and timeless — not trendy or templated. I’m also big on making my clients feel comfortable in front of the camera, especially those who say they’re “awkward” or “not photogenic.” Spoiler: everyone is photogenic when they feel like themselves, and that’s the energy I bring into every shoot.
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built through my work — with clients who come back year after year, with brands who trust me to capture their story, and with people who tell me my photos made them feel beautiful or confident again. That’s what keeps me going — not just taking pretty pictures, but making people feel something when they look at them.
If you’re looking for a photographer who’s as invested in the experience as much as the end result — someone who values creativity, collaboration, and heart — thats me #yourfavoritecameralady!
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I had to unlearn two big things: that being multi-passionate makes you unfocused — and that charging less means you’ll book more.
At one point, I thought I had to choose just one type of photography — like I could only do brand work or families or fashion. But the truth is, I thrive because I do it all. My range is what makes my work so versatile. I bring creative direction, visual storytelling, and strategy into every session, no matter the category.
I also had to let go of the idea that lower prices would lead to more bookings. It might work short-term, but in the long run, it can lead to burnout and attract clients who don’t fully value your time or talent. I’ve learned that your worth isn’t tied to how affordable you are — it’s tied to the experience, energy, and creativity you bring. And as your business grows, so does your audience. Sometimes the people you thought would support you the most aren’t the ones who book — and that’s okay. The right clients will find you when you stand confidently in your value and lead with purpose.
Unlearning those things helped me build a business that feels aligned, intentional, and creatively full.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Even after college, balancing personal life while trying to keep my craft profitable was a real challenge. There were stretches when bookings were slow, and it felt like everyone only wanted to work with me if it was for free. Those moments made me question myself and wonder if I was on the right path.
But I kept pushing through, and those hard times made the wins feel even sweeter. I’ve been lucky to capture behind-the-scenes photos of The Game for GFarma Labs and the “See the Thing Is” podcast. I’ve shot “In the Studio” content for rappers like Mozzy and ScHoolboy Q, and captured on-stage moments for Steve Aoki, Currensy, DMX, Vince Staples, and more.
Those opportunities didn’t just validate my work — they reminded me why I love this craft and why it’s worth the struggle. Resilience for me is about holding on through the doubts and setbacks, staying ready for when those moments come, and trusting that persistence will pay off.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kaitlynkohn.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitlynkohn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaitlynKohn/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlynkohn/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KaitlynKohn
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kaitlyn-kohn-visuals-oceanside
- Other: Google Profiles: https://g.co/kgs/EuRewxR
I included Yelp but prefer google profile/reviews.
Image Credits
Photo of Kaitlyn – @photosby.stephaniemarie
All other photography – @kaitlynkohn