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

Hi Kara, thanks for joining us today. Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?

While many photographers focus solely on Instagram perfection and paid advertising, I believe that genuine human connection remains the most powerful tool for building a thriving business. This might seem counterintuitive in an industry obsessed with followers and likes, but I’ve learned that strong client relationships are far more valuable than any algorithm.
This belief stems from a pivotal experience early in my career. I had just launched my photography business and, like many others, was heavily focused on online marketing and social media. While those efforts brought in some clients, my most significant and enduring connections came from unexpected places.

I vividly remember one particular client who initially hired me for a simple headshot session. We immediately clicked during her shoot, sharing stories, laughter, and a sense of mutual understanding. She was a therapist and speaker who was organizing a large annual conference for other therapists in her field, and because of the rapport we built, she ended up hiring me to photograph her conference for years. This led to dozens of headshot sessions for therapists attending her conference, and an incredible amount of referrals.

That experience was a powerful reminder that true connection can open doors that no amount of online marketing can replicate. It taught me the importance of making clients feel valued, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, and going above and beyond to exceed their expectations.

It’s been a rewarding journey, choosing to prioritize meaningful interactions over fleeting online trends. This choice has enriched my business and my life in immeasurable ways. While I continue to embrace digital tools, I never underestimate the power of human connection. It’s the bedrock of my business and the key to forging lasting bonds with my clients.

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.

About Me & Sperling Photo Co.
Hi everyone! I’m Kara Sperling, the artist and entrepreneur behind Sperling Photo Co. I’m a brand photographer who specializes in creating powerful visuals for entrepreneurs and businesses. I help my clients clarify their brand message, connect with their ideal clients, and elevate their online presence through authentic and captivating imagery.

My Journey-
I’ve been immersed in the world of art my entire life, coming from a long line of artists. While I initially explored painting and drawing, I discovered my true passion when I started second shooting for wedding photographers at the young age of 15. The ability to freeze moments in time and capture raw emotion captivated me.

I was fortunate to learn from incredible mentors, including a photographer trained by Ansel Adams, who instilled in me a deep appreciation for both the technical and artistic aspects of photography. I also pursued a degree in graphic design, which has been invaluable in understanding visual communication and marketing.

Over the years, I’ve photographed everything from weddings and families to products and headshots. My work has even been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue and OK! Magazine online. But it was in brand photography that I found my true calling. I’m passionate about empowering women and helping them achieve their dreams. There’s nothing more fulfilling than collaborating with inspiring entrepreneurs and creating visuals that showcase their unique personalities and brand stories.

What I Offer-
I provide a range of brand photography services, including:

Brand photoshoots: These sessions are designed to capture the essence of your brand, showcasing your products, services, and personality. We’ll work together to plan a shoot that reflects your brand’s unique style and message.

Headshots: I create professional and approachable headshots that convey confidence and authenticity, ensuring you make a strong first impression.

Product Photography: I bring your products to life with captivating visuals that highlight their unique features and make them irresistible to your customers. From lifestyle shots to close-up details, I’ll create imagery that elevates your brand and drives sales.

What Problems I Solve-
Many entrepreneurs struggle with creating visual content that truly represents their brand. They may feel awkward in front of the camera, unsure of how to showcase their products or services effectively, or simply lack the time and resources to create high-quality images. I help my clients overcome these challenges by providing a full-service photography experience, from planning and styling to shooting and editing.

What Sets Me Apart-
My Client-Centered Approach: I believe in building genuine relationships with my clients, taking the time to understand their needs, and creating a collaborative and supportive environment.

My Artistic Vision: My photography style is crisp, clean, and calm, with a focus on capturing authentic moments and emotions.

My Strategic Approach: I don’t just take pretty pictures; I help my clients develop a visual strategy that supports their business goals.

My Commitment to Empowerment: I’m passionate about supporting women in business and helping them achieve their goals.

My Experience and Expertise: As an award-winning photographer and educator with nearly 20 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to every project.

What I’m Most Proud Of-
I’m incredibly proud of the community I’ve built with my clients. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them succeed and know that my photography has played a role in their journey. I’m also proud of my ability to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for my clients, even those who feel uncomfortable in front of the camera.

What I Want Potential Clients to Know-
I want you to know that I’m more than just a photographer; I’m your creative partner. I’m here to help you bring your vision to life and create visuals that truly represent your brand. I believe that every woman deserves to have a brand that she’s proud of, and I’m here to help you make that happen. I’m also a big believer in having fun and keeping things lighthearted, so you can expect a photoshoot that’s both productive and enjoyable.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Becoming a mother wasn’t just a life change; it was a complete redefinition of who I am and what I wanted to achieve. Growing and birthing three tiny humans in four years was a profound experience, filled with immense love, undeniable exhaustion, and a whole lot of dry shampoo.

Before motherhood, I ran a successful wedding and portrait photography business. But the demanding schedule became unsustainable with the whirlwind of diapers, sleepless nights, and the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Beyond the logistics, I yearned for work that aligned with my newfound values, work that empowered other women and allowed me to contribute meaningfully while also being present for my daughters.

That’s when I rediscovered my passion for brand photography. This shift allowed me to work with incredible female entrepreneurs, empowering them to build their businesses and achieve their dreams. I recently worked with a client who was launching her own coaching business. Seeing her confidence soar during the photoshoot and witnessing the success of her brand launch was incredibly fulfilling.

Motherhood has not only reshaped my career but also fueled my passion for empowering women. My daughters are my constant inspiration. I want to show them that women can be successful entrepreneurs, financial contributors, and loving mothers all at the same time.

This pivot was undoubtedly challenging, but it has been the most rewarding decision of my career. It has allowed me to align my work with my values, find greater balance in my life, and inspire my daughters to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I believe my reputation within the market has been built on a foundation of genuine care and authentic relationships. It’s more than just delivering beautiful photos; it’s about truly investing in my clients’ success and fostering a sense of trust and community.

From the very first consultation, I prioritize understanding my clients’ needs, their vision, and their aspirations. I want to know their stories, their challenges, and what makes their businesses unique. This allows me to create imagery that not only reflects their brand but also resonates with their target audience.

And it’s been incredible to witness firsthand how impactful new brand photos can be! I’ve seen several of my clients’ businesses truly flourish after working together. In today’s digital world, strong visuals are essential for any business’s success, especially with websites and social media marketing playing such a huge role.

But it goes beyond the photoshoot. I’m a firm believer in building long-term relationships with my clients. I stay connected with them, celebrate their wins, and offer support whenever I can. I see myself as their creative partner, invested in their growth and eager to witness their businesses flourish. I’m naturally a very positive person, and I love to cheer people on! Seeing my clients succeed genuinely brings me joy.

This commitment to genuine care extends to my community as well. I actively participate in local networking events, collaborate with other businesses, and contribute to causes I believe in. I believe that by fostering a strong sense of community, we all rise together.

Ultimately, my clients recognize and appreciate this care and commitment. They know that I’m not just there to take their pictures; I’m there to champion their success. This has led to strong word-of-mouth referrals, repeat business, and a reputation for being a photographer who truly cares.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sperlingphoto.co
• Instagram: @sperlingphotoco

Image Credits

Kara Sperling, Sperling Photo Co, Spark Studios, Reshma Sondagar