We were lucky to catch up with Kristeen Waddell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kristeen, appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

After graduating from Purdue University, I worked a corporate job while doing photography on the side. My photography work quickly started to earn as much as my corporate salary. But once I started having kids, it became clear I couldn’t juggle both. There simply weren’t enough hours in the day. So, I made the decision to pursue photography full-time, and it was an easy choice.

Interestingly, my corporate job was in digital marketing, which turned out to be a huge asset. I used my marketing skills to build a strong online presence for my photography business. In a market filled with talented photographers, being able to reach potential clients through SEO and online marketing gave me a significant advantage.

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

I’m Kristeen Marie, a photographer based in Indianapolis, specializing in newborn, family, and maternity photography. My journey began with a love for capturing life’s most precious moments, and it turned into a full-time business after I left my corporate digital marketing job. I offer services ranging from newborn sessions to capturing important milestones as families grow.

What truly sets me apart is building long-term relationships with my clients. Some families have trusted me to capture their memories for over 10 years, and watching their families grow year after year is the best part of my job. I create a relaxed, fun environment where even the most unpredictable moments turn into beautiful, candid shots. My goal is to provide families with memories they’ll cherish for years to come, and my clients know they can expect sessions that are personal, fun, and filled with genuine connection.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

One of the best decisions I made early on was hiring an accountant who specializes in small businesses. For years, my mom—who’s an accountant but not a tax specialist—handled my taxes. While she did a great job, having a professional with specific expertise in small business accounting was invaluable. It saved me time, increased my profits, reduced stress, and made sure everything was done right.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding part of being a creative is the relationships I build with my clients. I love watching their families grow year after year. Many of my clients have gone from tiny newborns to pre-teens, and I’m sure I’ll get to see them grow into young adults. It’s truly a joy to be a part of their journey and capture these precious moments along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.KristeenMarie.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristeenmariephoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristeenMariePhotography/