We recently connected with Shaylee Kay and have shared our conversation below.
Shaylee, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.
Everyone deserves good quality pictures. Not everyone can afford it. As photographers, we usually charge based on our experience level, how expensive our equipment is, and upkeep on all of our apps that help us create the beautiful images. The term “you get what you pay for” is very valid in my line of work.
I understand that some families would absolutely love for professional portraits but cannot simply afford it. That is why once a month I choose a family/couple/senior through word of mouth or my own research, to give a free photoshoot to. It could be a low income family or a couple that’s getting married with a low budget.
Pictures are important to me, and I think everyone deserves some great quality portraits regardless of circumstances.
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?
I’m a Traveling Photographer! My main expertise is Western Couples! But I love all sessions from maternity to weddings! My style is considered warm, earthy tones bringing a home feel to all of my photoshoots.
I first got into photography during Covid needing a creative outlet while my husband was deployed. I enjoy learning new tips/tricks to help me hone in my skills.
We are a military family & incredibly patriotic. I’m a mom to 3 handsome little boys, who you can probably find at a lot of my photoshoots off in the background eating a picnic.
I’m most proud of the work I’ve put in to build new clientele wherever we go with the military. It can be challenging to pick up and start new. Referrals help a bunch, and I’m so grateful for all of my clients!
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
The best source of new clients for me would be referrals 100%. If there are others that have loved their photoshoots Word of Mouth is key! That’s where I get 80% of my business. I also love returning clients! It’s a complete boost of confidence & helps me know that I’ve done a good job!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing how much others enjoy it. I love when my clients absolutely love their photos! I love seeing my images up in their homes, on invitations, on social media, etc 
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wildlilyportraits.mypixieset.com/portfolio/
- Instagram: @wildlilyportraits
- Facebook: Wild Lily Portraits
Image Credits
@wildlilyportraits