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

Kayla , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Taking risks is something I am known for, whether that be as small as buying a new backdrop, or being featured in a gallery of a good friend in the heart of Savannah, GA. My freshman year of college, I received an offer from a close friend to be a part of their new gallery. It was brand new territory for me, as I have never sold my images at a physical location. I knew it was going to cost a lot of time, energy, and of course money, but I took the risk and it has only gone up from there! Since opening Kayla Marie Gallery, I’ve connected with so many amazing photographers and business owners, and I’ve learned so much along the way. I knew it would be a risk, juggling the new gallery, school, social activities, and my already existing photography business. But, thanks to the support of friends and family, it has been an amazing experience, and I am so glad I took the leap of faith.

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 background and context?

I am a student, photographer, and proud business owner. Photography became prominent in my life as soon as I could hold a camera and press the button. My father was the reason the addiction started. He was always carrying around a camera and taking photos, which slowly turned me onto the art of photography. In 2018, I took over his business, Patrick Kaymar Photography, and started a modeling program in hopes of making everyone feel welcome and accepted in such a difficult industry. After moving to Savannah, GA for school, I made it my goal to be a part of everything available to me. This past May, I had the amazing opportunity to be featured in a gallery in Savannah. I now provide an array of services, such as landscape, portrait, and my personal favorite, editorial photography. I strive to set myself apart from other photographers by always providing a welcoming and fun experience, while also changing the industry through equality and acceptance.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media has been my best friend throughout my entire journey. Having a very tech-y father helped me learn the ins and outs of the internet. My biggest piece of advice for someone trying to build a social media presence is find your story and connect with your audience. Your followers want to follow someone that is relevant to them, so make a connection and keep it. For me, my story was being a young business owner and entrepreneur. I then went to social media to share my work and story, and was connected with so many amazing people, young and old, wanting to do the same. My followers have pushed me to try out new things and create more than I ever have before. They shared my story, I encouraged theirs, and from that, my social media presence grew and grew.

Is there a mission driving your creative journey?

I once tried my hand at modeling and felt really left out of the loop. Everyone else was size 0 and super tall. Some photographers that I worked with treated us like props, not like actual people. Although I enjoyed my time, I felt that things needed to change if I wanted to continue. Unable to find a more diverse group, I decided I would be the change. That is what started my ambassadors program at Patrick Kaymar Photography. I met so many amazing and diverse people. My favorite part was getting to know each person, where they come from, and what makes them, them! Even today, I’m still striving to make this industry more accessible and welcoming by interviewing current and former models to learn more about them. The number one question I ask is advice they would give to the younger generation of aspiring models and actors.

Contact Info:

• Website: kaylamarieportfolio.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/patrickkaymar
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mlynchh
• Other: Gallery Instagram – @kaylamariegallery

Image Credits
Patrick Kaymar Photography