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

Kiernan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard.

I know a lot of people think the best wedding photographers are those who live and breathe weddings, shooting them exclusively. But honestly, I see things a little differently. My background isn’t just in weddings—it’s also in branding and lifestyle photography, which has given me a totally different perspective. I don’t just capture the day; I aim to create individual pieces of art that tell a couple’s story in a unique way.

I’ve had a lot of people ask me what my niche is, and for a while, I felt like I needed one. Not having a strict niche, though, has actually made me a more versatile photographer. I’ve learned to adapt, be more creative, and approach each wedding with fresh eyes. It keeps my work dynamic, and I believe that flexibility helps me connect with each couple in a way that makes their photos feel personal and real—not like I’m just checking off a wedding photography checklist.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi, I’m Kiernan Rome, a full-time photographer with a deep love for creativity and storytelling. Before launching my own photography business, I spent seven years in branding and creative agencies, where I learned to blend strategy with artistry. This unique background shapes my approach, allowing me to infuse every shoot with a thoughtful perspective.

I specialize in capturing timeless, authentic moments, whether through digital or film photography. From the tender emotions of an engagement to the intimate moments of an elopement or the joyous celebration of your wedding day, my goal is to create a collection of images that reflect the true essence of your love story. My photojournalistic style focuses on candid, magical moments rather than posed shots, allowing me to blend seamlessly into the background. This way, I capture genuine smiles and spontaneous joy, ensuring your wedding day is as carefree and delightful as it should be.

But my passion doesn’t stop at weddings. I also dive into the vibrant world of lifestyle and branding photography, where the magic extends beyond traditional portraits or product shots. I create custom lifestyle images that resonate with your audience, showcasing your services and narrating your brand story. With my years of marketing and branding experience, I approach each session with a strategic lens, ensuring it’s tailored to your unique vision. We’ll capture a mix of styled shots and candid moments that not only elevate your brand but also translate beautifully into social media, websites, and advertising content.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to being more than just a photographer. I’m here as your supportive guide, ready to help you with your ideas and dreams. I take pride in creating a safe space where you can fully express yourself, and I genuinely believe I have the best job in the world. My mission is to provide you with stunning photographs and an unforgettable experience, allowing you to savor every moment of your special day.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

I’ve always been the girl with the camera. From a young age, photography was my passion, and I got my first DSLR camera as I entered middle school. I brought it with me to every event and family gathering, turning my friends, family, and even pets into my subjects. This early love for capturing moments was just the beginning.

In college at the University of South Carolina (Go Cocks!), I took a photography class that opened my eyes to the art form in a new way. Later, during my time abroad in Barcelona, I enrolled in another photography course, which only deepened my excitement and understanding of the craft. Up to that point, I was mostly self-taught, so formal education felt like a thrilling leap forward.

After graduating, I dove into the corporate world, starting in business development at a marketing agency in Philadelphia. I then transitioned to retail marketing for Comcast Xfinity and later worked at a pharmaceutical advertising agency. While I was climbing the corporate ladder, I found myself increasingly unhappy. My creative energy felt stifled, and by the end of the week, I was too exhausted to engage with family, friends, or my photography passion.

My turning point came when my partner encouraged me to take the leap into photography full-time. It had always been a dream of mine, but I had never fully embraced it as a serious career path. I was on a conventional path: doing well in school, securing a good corporate job, and aiming to climb higher. But as I continued down this road, I realized it wasn’t fulfilling.

Thanks to the skills I developed in the corporate world, I was able to approach my photography business with a strategic mindset. I learned the importance of branding, marketing, and client relations, which have been crucial in scaling my business. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but each milestone—whether it was booking my first wedding or expanding into branding photography—has fueled my passion even more.

Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t give up on my daydream. I feel incredibly blessed to call myself a business owner and to wake up every day excited about the work I do. Photography is more than just a job for me; it’s a way to capture and share the beautiful stories of others. I couldn’t be happier on this journey.

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

Building my audience on social media has been a natural extension of my love for photography. I’ve always enjoyed capturing the beauty in everyday moments—whether it was a stunning sunset or the little joys in my daily life. This passion seamlessly transitioned to my personal Instagram account, where I would share photos of anything and everything that inspired me. I loved the art of romanticizing the small things, and that approach became the foundation for my business account.
When I launched my photography business, I decided to carry that same mindset into my professional presence online. I focused on creating content that felt authentic and relatable, which helped me connect with my audience on a deeper level. While I find it challenging to speak directly to the camera, I still share my face, opinions, and snippets of my life. This vulnerability not only humanizes my brand but also fosters a sense of community and connection with my followers.
Running a photography business is inherently personal, and my social media reflects that. I strive to show behind-the-scenes moments, share stories from my shoots, and celebrate the joy of capturing love and connection. This transparency helps potential clients see the person behind the camera, making them feel more comfortable reaching out.
For those just starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to focus on authenticity. Share what you love and let your personality shine through your content. Engage with your audience by asking questions, responding to comments, and creating a dialogue. Consistency is also key—post regularly and stay true to your brand’s voice. Remember, it’s about building relationships, not just promoting your services. By connecting with your audience on a personal level, you’ll create a supportive community that resonates with your work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kiernanrome.com
• Instagram: kiernanromephoto

Image Credits

B&W closeup of me: @mindful.medicine.media