We were lucky to catch up with Karmen Van Derven recently and have shared our conversation below.

Karmen, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

My self portrait project is my most meaningful work.

Karmen, 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’ve always been intrigued by perspectives that others might miss, which led me to photography. From spending countless hours in a high school darkroom—where reality and imagination blur—to capturing candid moments of joy with friends, I’ve always strived to document the world as I see it. Despite not always having the best equipment, I’ve made the most of every camera in my hands.

My journey into professional lifestyle photography began with the birth of my children, as I sought to immortalize every fleeting moment. This passion led me to open a studio in downtown Daytona, where I deepened my connection with my subjects and began to explore self-documentation as well.

Motherhood was a transformative experience for me, both personally and professionally. It was through my camera that I found myself again, leading to my most significant project to date: a self-portrait series. This work allowed me to delve into the realms of my dreams, emotions, and desires. The connections I’ve made with other artists undergoing similar transformations have profoundly impacted me. This collaboration has inspired a book project with a fellow artist, aimed at encouraging others who use their creative endeavors for deep personal exploration.

What sets me apart is not just my ability to capture life’s moments, but also how I use photography as a tool for emotional alchemy and personal transformation. I am most proud of how my work resonates with and inspires others. To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that through my lens, I strive to make the unseen seen and the unspoken heard.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

The shift from analog to digital in photography just blew the doors wide open for me. It’s not just about the convenience or the lower costs, but the sheer speed at which you can operate now. Tools like Photoshop and Lightroom have revolutionized what we can do with a photo in mere minutes, something that would have taken hours in the darkroom days. How long do you think it took Michelangelo to get 100 likes on the Sistine Chapel? The immediate feedback you can get on a piece of art makes it fun to make the next one.

One thing I absolutely cherish about this digital age is how easy it’s become to connect with other artists. Growing up, I always felt a bit out of place, but once I tapped into the global community of creatives, everything changed. Finding your people, connecting with people who get your ‘weird,’ can be incredibly affirming.

I do wish I’d embraced specific technological advances earlier. Looking back, I’d definitely nudge my younger self to learn it all, even if it was hard. Keeping up with tech isn’t just about staying relevant; it’s about making the most of your artistic potential.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One aspect of being a creative that might elude those outside the field is the profound impact of self-portraiture, not just as an artistic endeavor, but as a deep psychological exploration. On the surface, self-portraits might seem like mere snapshots or even self-indulgence to some. However, they’re actually a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

Engaging in self-portraiture has allowed me to confront, embrace, and express parts of myself that are often unspoken or unseen. It’s like holding up a mirror to your soul and having an honest conversation with yourself. This process can be incredibly therapeutic, providing insights into your own psyche and helping to process emotions in a way that words sometimes cannot.

Artistically, self-portraiture pushes boundaries. It demands vulnerability and honesty from the artist, which can lead to breakthroughs in personal style and expression. It’s not just about capturing your image; it’s about capturing your essence at a particular moment, under particular feelings, and translating that into a visual medium that speaks to others.

For anyone feeling disconnected from themselves or seeking a deeper connection to their own artistic voice, I highly recommend the practice. It’s not just about learning to be a better photographer—it’s about learning to see and understand yourself better, which in turn can enrich your perspective on the world around you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kvandphotography.com/
• Instagram: @karmen_van_derven_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kvandphotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karmen-coon-van-derven-24053326/

Image Credits
I take all of these photographs of myself.