We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kaytlin O’Neall . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kaytlin below.
Kaytlin , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Everyone has to start somewhere, and for me, that meant embracing every opportunity that came my way. From day one, I was determined to learn every setting on my camera and connect with every client I worked with. I began my content creation journey at 16 by starting a YouTube channel, where I gained self-taught experience. Throughout my journey, I have always strived to operate with integrity and a strong work ethic. Photography and social media have been my passion for as long as I can remember. From taking pictures with my mom’s camera as a little girl to running my own photography business, my passion has led me to capture everything from maternity, senior, graduation, family, engagement, proposal, and newborn photo shoots. I cherish the opportunity to exercise creative freedom while bringing my clients’ visions to life. My family, friends, and fellow photographers have been an invaluable source of support, guidance, and wisdom throughout my journey. In particular, I’m grateful for those who have helped me usher in a new layer of my business, now encompassing wedding photography. And in all that I do, I am strengthened by God, who continually grants me discernment and wisdom to grow my business.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Kaytlin O’Neall, and I am the photographer behind Kaytlin V Photography. Alongside my photography pursuits, I am also a YouTuber, social media manager, and creator of the Light on the Subject Podcast. I am a DFW-based photographer with a wealth of experience, having traveled worldwide to capture shots that know no bounds. From maternity and senior portraits to graduation, family, engagement, proposal, and newborn photo sessions, I cater to all types of photography assignments. Moreover, I am currently expanding my business to include wedding photography. My top priority is for my clients to have an enjoyable, laid-back, and unforgettable experience during their photoshoot. What I love most about photography is capturing the essence of authenticity. My ultimate goal is to weave a beautiful story through each individual client’s photographs. I assure my clients that I will not only invest my heart into their experience but also the final result of their photos.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My primary objective as a professional photographer is to capture authentic stories through visually compelling imagery while traveling worldwide. Though I have been fortunate enough to travel extensively for photography in the past, my true passion lies in discovering new experiences and genuine storytelling through my art. My goal is to document real-life stories and capture the beauty amidst struggles. Each person possesses a unique story, and my aspiration is to showcase these stories through my photography and content creation, working with real individuals and capturing their raw emotions and experiences. While life can be challenging, I find redemption in the stories of others, and I strive to create a connection with those around me by sharing my life and light through my work. My business affords me the opportunity to listen, see, and capture people’s true essence, which is why I aspire to travel the world to witness diverse cultures and capture their stories through my art. Ultimately, the human connection is paramount to me, and I view my business as an opportunity to express love to people in ways that others may not be able to. Because, at the end of the day, individuals desire to be seen, loved, and heard, and I aim to accomplish that through my interactions with them.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned in photography is the importance of valuing my time and effort. In the beginning, I offered numerous free sessions to gain experience and provide beautiful photos for others. However, finding the balance between generosity and running a profitable business has been challenging. Through the unwavering support and encouragement of my family, I came to realize that my work has value. My photography packages are designed to offer clients the highest level of care, including flexible scheduling, multiple locations, outfit changes, and a generous number of edited photos. Running a photography business involves considerable expenses, but I consider it an investment in my clients and my creativity. I am so grateful that I am where I am today, which I would’ve not been able to achieve without the amazing support around me, as well as the Lord, guiding me in every step of the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kaytlinvphotograph.wixsite.com/kaytlinvphotograph-8
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kaytlin.v.photography?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaytlin.v.photography?mibextid=2JQ9oc
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kaytlinoneall?si=53zbD_ZkqsQad0ul
- Other: Personal instagram: https://instagram.com/kaytlin.oneall?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== Personal Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@kaytlin.oneall
Image Credits
Kaytlin V Photography