We recently connected with Kenzie Schrock and have shared our conversation below.
Kenzie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know.
Starting over, I wouldn’t have second guessed & let fear keep me from jumping into the industry for so long. I wouldn’t have compared myself to everyone with a camera. Instead, I would come into it with more confidence and vulnerability.
I have learned everyone is on their own path with their own unique style and personality. My creativity is completely different from every other photographer, even if we have close visions.
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 back background and context?
Let me introduce myself – Hi! I’m Kenzie!
I’m a passionate photographer who ventured into the world of photography with a unique perspective and a desire to capture the beauty and stories that often go unnoticed.
My journey into the photography industry began when I realized that my viewpoint was different from others—and that this difference was my strength, not a weakness. Embracing this, and the unwavering support from my family, friends and colleagues allowed me to overcome the initial fear of going professional and motivated me to turn my passion into a fulfilling career.
I specialize in portrait photography, with my passion being storytelling and lifestyle/documentary style.
I provide high-quality, personalized services tailored to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether it’s capturing the raw emotions of a wedding day, the intricate details of a product, the family bonds, or the serene beauty of a landscape, my goal is to deliver images that tell a story and evoke emotion.
What sets me apart is my ability to see the world through a different lens—literally and figuratively. My work is defined by a unique blend of creativity, technical skill, and a deep understanding of my subjects.
I’m not just about taking pictures; I’m about creating art that resonates with people. The type of art you would be so proud to hang on your walls. I take the time to understand their vision and bring it to life in a way that aims to exceed their expectations.
I help my clients by translating their ideas and moments into timeless images. Whether it’s a family looking to show the world their bond and love for each other or a couple wanting to preserve the memories of their special day, I provide solutions that capture the essence of their needs.
My ability to connect with clients on a personal level allows them to be comfortable during their time in front of the camera which also allows me to create work that truly reflects their personalities and stories.
I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the relationships I’ve built. I have gained life long friends along the way!
My work is a reflection of my passion for storytelling. I approach each project with the same level of enthusiasm and dedication, whether it’s a small, intimate shoot or a large-scale commercial project.
For me, photography is not just a job—it’s a way of connecting with people and the world around us, and I strive to ensure that every image I create leaves a lasting impression.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the ability to connect with people on a deep, emotional level through the work I create. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking an idea, a feeling, or a moment and transforming it into something tangible that resonates with others.
Seeing how my work can evoke emotions, spark memories, or inspire someone is truly gratifying. It’s like having a conversation without words, where the art speaks for itself and creates a connection between the viewer and the creator.
Another rewarding aspect is the endless opportunity for growth and exploration. Being a creative means constantly evolving, experimenting with new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This journey of continuous learning and discovery is not only exciting but also deeply satisfying, as it allows me to keep refining my craft and expressing myself in new ways.
Ultimately, it’s the combination of creating something meaningful and the impact it has on others that makes being an artist so rewarding for me.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
For non-creatives, understanding the journey of a photographer—or any artist—can be challenging because it often involves navigating a world that’s driven by passion, intuition, and a desire for self-expression, rather than just logic or practicality. Here’s a bit of insight into what this journey entails:
The Emotional Investment: Photography is deeply personal. Every shot I take is a piece of me—a reflection of my thoughts, emotions, and perspective. This emotional investment can be hard for non-creatives to grasp because it goes beyond just producing work; it’s about putting a part of yourself out there for the world to see, and that can be both exhilarating and vulnerable.
The Constant Pursuit of Improvement: Unlike many professions where there’s a clear path of progression, the journey of a photographer is more fluid and often uncertain. It’s a continuous process of learning, experimenting, and refining one’s craft. There’s always a new technique to master, a new perspective to explore, and a desire to push the boundaries of creativity. This drive to constantly improve and evolve can be hard for those outside the creative field to fully appreciate.
The Fear of Rejection and Criticism: Putting your work out into the world means opening yourself up to judgment. This can be daunting, especially when your work is a reflection of your personal vision. The fear of rejection or criticism is something every creative struggles with, but it’s also what drives us to grow and develop thicker skin.
The Non-Linear Path: The journey is rarely straightforward. It’s filled with ups and downs, moments of doubt, and periods of creative block. There’s no fixed roadmap to follow, which can make the path unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming. But it’s also what makes it so rewarding when you finally achieve a breakthrough or see your work make an impact.
The Passion That Fuels It All: Despite the challenges, is an unwavering passion for what I do. It’s this love for capturing moments, telling stories, and creating art that makes the struggles worth it. For non-creatives, it might be hard to understand why someone would choose such a demanding and uncertain path, but for me, it’s about doing what I love and finding fulfillment in the process.
Understanding these aspects can help non-creatives appreciate the dedication and heart that goes into the journey of a photographer. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about creating something meaningful, pushing creative boundaries, and finding a way to connect with others through visual storytelling.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kenzieschrockphotography.com
- Instagram: @kenzieschrockphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenzieschrockphotography
- Other: TikTok – @kenzieschrockphotography
Image Credits
Kenzie Schrock Photography