We were lucky to catch up with Katie Torres recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I find great happiness as a business owner because it allows me to combine my passions for creativity and helping people into one fulfilling endeavor. Being a photographer provides me with the unique opportunity to exercise creative freedom and capture the beautiful moments in people’s lives.

However, like any business owner, I have moments when I reflect on what it might be like to have a regular job. The last time this thought crossed my mind was during a particularly hectic period in my business. I was juggling numerous responsibilities, from booking clients to managing marketing efforts and handling administrative tasks. It was a time when the uncertainty of how much work I would have in the upcoming year started to weigh on me. The stress of not having a predictable income can be challenging for anyone in a freelance or entrepreneurial role.

What truly surprised and touched me during this moment of reflection was the unwavering support I received from my clients. Some families have been returning to me for my photography services every year for a decade now, and that realization provided a tremendous sense of gratitude and motivation. It reminded me of the strong connections I’ve built and the meaningful impact my work has on people’s lives.

On the flip side, I also acknowledged the stress that comes with managing the behind-the-scenes aspects of my business. The intricacies of business operations and task management can at times become overwhelming. During these moments, I might daydream about simpler jobs that don’t require as much mental effort, like working in a library or engaging in a straightforward task such as counting beads.

These daydreams serve as a valuable indicator for me, signaling that it’s time to reevaluate my work-life balance and prioritize my mental health. It’s a reminder to take some time for self-care and reflect on what truly brings me joy and fulfillment. Despite the occasional challenges, what keeps me going year after year is the incredible support of my clients and the opportunity to do what I love – capturing the beautiful moments that define people’s lives.

Katie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Katie Torres, and I’m delighted to introduce myself to those who may not be familiar with my work. My journey into photography began during my time at the University of Northern Colorado, where I studied art, psychology, and photography. Over the last ten years, I’ve established myself as a professional Wedding and Family photographer based in Denver.

My passion for photography grew immensely after becoming a mother. I realized the value of preserving the intricate details of my children’s lives and the emotional connections we share. This passion has become the cornerstone of my craft, where I specialize in creating meticulous, high-quality images for couples and families to treasure for generations.

What sets me apart is my deep understanding of the ephemeral nature of memories. While we may think we’ll remember every tiny detail, the reality is that these precious moments can fade over time. My work helps families hold onto these moments, not just for themselves but also for their children and future generations to cherish.

I take immense pride in the fact that my clients have shared how the value of their images has grown over time. As their families evolve, my photographs serve as a timeless window into the past. It’s a privilege to capture these moments and create lasting memories for each client.

I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my photography isn’t just about pictures; it’s about preserving emotions, connections, and the unique stories of each family. My work is a heartfelt endeavor, and I’m dedicated to providing a service that captures the beauty and love in people’s lives.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My journey as a photographer has been marked by resilience and continuous growth. I’ve come to understand that success is not a fixed destination but an ongoing process of adaptation and improvement. This realization has been instrumental in my development as an artist and as an individual.

In the past decade, I’ve established myself as a professional photographer in Denver, Colorado, earning recognition on both national and international levels for my work. Before transitioning to photography full-time, I pursued a career as a therapist in the field of mental health, holding a Master’s degree in Family Therapy. This background has equipped me with a unique perspective and skill set, enabling me to connect with individuals of all walks of life in my photography practice. My ultimate aim in my work is to capture the true essence and personality of each subject, fostering a safe and supportive environment to facilitate this process.

Beyond my professional journey, I’ve also undergone significant physical transformation, losing over 100 pounds. While I’m immensely proud of this achievement, it has required me to embrace and accept my body even during times when my confidence was at its lowest. I understand that most people feel a bit uneasy in front of the camera, having experienced that discomfort myself. This understanding has profoundly influenced my work, allowing me to capture raw and powerful images for my clients. It’s in those moments of vulnerability and authenticity that the true beauty and essence of each individual shine through. I continue to work on self-acceptance in the present, even after reaching my weight loss goals, recognizing that this is an ongoing process that demands consistent effort and dedication.

I’m eager to leverage all my experiences and expertise to assist others in their own journeys of self-discovery and self-love. Through my personal and professional experiences, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of photography in capturing moments of authenticity and vulnerability. I’m excited to use this medium to help others view themselves in a new and empowering light.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is deeply rooted in a mission that has evolved and solidified over time. I recognize that life is a journey that encompasses everything from joy to sorrow, and every moment in between holds its unique beauty and challenges.

One pivotal moment that profoundly impacted my perspective occurred early in my photography career when I had a client, a young mother, tragically pass away, leaving her young children behind. At her funeral, I was moved to see the photos I had taken during our last family session displayed at the front of her casket. It was a reminder that those images would become cherished memories for her children, the only visual connection they would have with their beloved mother. This experience ignited a deep sense of purpose within me.

Since that moment, my creative journey has been driven by a mission to capture the essence of family dynamics, connections, and the beauty in everyday moments. I volunteer at hospitals, photographing demises for families who have lost their infants, understanding the profound impact these images can have during times of grief. I approach each family and wedding photography session with a keen eye for the genuine connections and emotions that bind loved ones together.

One of my favorite moments to document is when mothers help their children get ready on their wedding day. It’s a touching reminder of the passage of time, as these same mothers once helped their children get ready every day. My mission is to create lasting memories that not only celebrate life’s joys but also provide solace and comfort during life’s inevitable challenges.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yourstorydenver.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/your.story.denver/