Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marla Klein. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Marla, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I’ve been creating a personal project for the past six years called The Metamorphosis Project. It’s a black and white portrait series of peoples’ gender transitions as they grow and change mentally, physically, and socially over time. With it, I have published three books (the latest came out last month!), photographed twenty people in-studio, and showcased so many stories. The project gives trans people confidence during a time of their lives that can be difficult and full of unknowns, as well as educates the public about the many different ways you can be transgender.

Marla, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a commercial & portrait photographer and photo studio owner based in Minneapolis, MN. After graduating from Hallmark Institute of Photography in 2012, I moved to Minnesota to pursue my love of conceptual photography. I create my artwork to move people, whether that’s through beauty, humor or controversy. I just want people to see things in a different way or to at least take a pause. I think humans create art to leave their mark on the world, but I try to do so by using compassion and building it in others.

I’m also the owner of Studio Apparatus in Saint Paul, MN, one of the largest rental studios in the Twin Cities metro area. We’re focused on being a tool for all artists by being accessible, affordable, and approachable for artists in every stage of their careers.

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

I love telling stories. I’ve always been a soft-spoken person but with my artwork, I feel like I can be whatever volume I want. I love uplifting and bringing out other peoples’ stories by using my tools: lighting, angles, set design, propping, and retouching. Sometimes a person or a brand doesn’t know exactly what they want to say in their story and I work with them to figure out a core message, and sometimes they know the message and need a creative way to say it. It’s the best feeling ever when the client and I are both so excited about creating something totally unique.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I went fully freelance in 2018 when I decided to leave an unfulfilling photo retouching job. I think I was just waiting for a sign to come along or for someone to guarantee my financial security before quitting. But I just made my decision on a random Wednesday and instantly felt a massive weight come off my shoulders. Like many other freelancers I know, I just made it work from there. I put in way more than 40 hours a week and have cried more than once about how hard it is, but I wouldn’t trade my freedom for anything. Best decision I ever made.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.marlamakesphotos.com
• Instagram: @marlaolivia & @themetamorphosisproject

Image Credits
Photos by Marla Klein