We were lucky to catch up with Kari Shafer recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kari, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful things I have done, is to be part of a surprise engagement. I’ve done these a few times over my 10+ years in the business, and it is always so special. The woman having no idea what is coming, and getting real/raw/in the moment photos is an amazing way to capture this huge milestone!

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 have always had a passion for photography. I took some classes in middle and high school, but fell away from it when I became a mom. In 2013 my husband encouraged me to pick it up again, so I did! I am completely self taught, and continue to take courses to better my craft! I am a mom to 2 amazing kids, and wife to an incredible husband! I LOVE to travel, and take photos of basically anything, everywhere I go!

I specialize in natural light photography of ANY kind, meaning I will do any type of session for my customers. Everything from weddings to newborn sessions, and anything in between! I also have a studio space for those sessions that require something a little different. I tend to take a TON of photos during each session, but I pride myself in making sure the customer is 100% satisfied with the end result, and this makes sure I can achieve that! I strive to connect with each customer, making lasting impressions that will carry over into future sessions!

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to provide an amazing product that I am proud to present to customers, while maintaining affordability!

Have you ever had to pivot?

In September of 2020, I had a brain aneurysm burst. I was in ICU for almost 3 weeks while my brain bled. It was a very long journey to recovery, some of which I still deal with to this day. I was out of commission for a little over a year, and had to basically re learn how to use my equipment. BUT…this has made me so resilient, and I am extremely thankful just to be alive! I like to say that photography saved my life.      

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.overlandparkphotography.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overlandparkphotography/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/overlandparkphotography

Image Credits
Kari Shafer