We were lucky to catch up with Kendall Dressendorfer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kendall, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
Once I discovered I was pregnant with my first child, I knew immediately that I would want a newborn session done with him. I found an amazing photographer nearby and immediately fell in love with the process of creating these timeless memories. A few months after my son’s newborn session I contacted Kristen, the photographer, and asked about an internship. I was hooked, seeing the parents so enraptured with how their newest addition was wrapped so sweetly in a beautiful set. I knew then that capturing those fleeting moments for families to cherish forever was what I wanted to do. Providing memories for years to come was, and still is, a huge part of my mission at Kendall Nicole Studios. But over the last six years, I have had another child and many life changes, my mission grew. As a single mom of two, my self-confidence plummeted. Doing self-portraits changed that tremendously, seeing myself in a different light was just what I needed. I began doing more maternity and women’s portrait sessions, and they quickly became my favorite. Seeing women walk in with high nerves being Infront of a camera, to walking out feeling like a thousand bucks is the best feeling.
Helping women see how magical they are and that they are capable of amazing things. Creating entire human beings, going through pains every month and standing tall against society’s standards. Getting them to look at themselves with cellulite, stretch marks, belly rolls, and still seeing the magic that is in them. That is what drives me.
Kendall, 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 started Kendall Nicole Photography six years ago, taking pictures of sweet little newborns. Over the years my business has grown and with it so has what I offer. Along with newborn sessions, I also do 6 months, one year, and any time after for my client’s and their littles. Maternity is another session style I do, celebrating mama’s amazing and glowing self. I focus on really trying to tell a story that is meaningful to the family. Each of my sets are custom created to the client, while still keeping my style in with it. I also offer women’s empowerment portraits at KNP Studio, focusing on building self-worth and confidence. Creating sets with such amazing individuals is always a great time. Individualizing the feel of the set, regardless of the session type, is very important to me. I want these images to be cherished for years to come.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
When I had my second child, I had to stay home with her. Not being able to do sessions was heart breaking and I was sure I wouldn’t be able to start back up again. I really love creating and that was a hard thing to come to terms with. My family was so supportive and understanding, so once my daughter was able to start daycare, we got to work on saving for a studio. Now, three years later, I am moving into my second studio and have created so many beautiful and amazing sets for my clients.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
While social media is a huge asset for small businesses’, nothing will ever beat word of mouth. I take pride in always providing great customer service and a calming (or fun) atmosphere within the studio. I would say 55% of my clients are from word of mouth and referrals!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kendallnicolephotos.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendall_nicole_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kendallnicolephotos