Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Chang.
Katie, please share your story with us.
Where to start? Though I’ve always loved photography, I started playing around with my first DSLR when I was in 6th grade. I practically shot everything. And when I say everything, I mean everything. A couple of days ago, I found 150 photos of a neighborhood squirrel on my two-year-old hard drive. Haha, what a strange kid I was. Anyways, the squirrel-stalking became one of my lesser hobbies when a few of my friends had me take photos of them… and I absolutely loved it. Something about capturing people just got me going. More and more friends started coming along… and then all of a sudden, I was spending countless hours on Photoshop, trying to perfect my very imperfect photos. After a while, my mom tried to convince me to start a little business. At first, I turned it down. I thought she was absolutely insane because… well, I was 12. And not only because I was 12, but because I was basically the shyest, awkward person out there.
Well, I obviously didn’t resist forever because not long after starting KCP, I was booking anything that came at me. I took college graduations, corporate events, Christmas card sessions, you name it, I did it. Word got around about KCP from a couple of amazing clients, and then I photographed my first senior. Then, I shot weddings… and then somehow, despite being a student and lacking a driver’s license (for now), I’ve grown my business from “flower portraits” and squirrel stalking to where I am now! I couldn’t have done it without my incredibly supportive family, friends, and clients!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Oh, no. Every photographer goes through many challenges… and me being a 13-year-old in the midst of a highly saturated senior and wedding industry, makes my journey harder. Though my age is definitely one set-back, I personally feel that my own self-doubt is much more of a challenge. Social media (particularly Instagram) is such a great tool for marketing and sharing. Instagram is full of inspiration as well. But sometimes, “inspiration” becomes “comparison” and I often find myself feeling drained and unworthy scrolling through my feed, looking at photographers who are consistently creating new content and beautiful images.
Nevertheless, I have been very lucky as well. Unlike many other young entrepreneurs, I have not gone through any bullying or much criticism at any point and I’m super fortunate to have friends and family cheering me on every step of the way!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Katie Chang is DFW-based photographer specializing in weddings, seniors, and lifestyle portraits.
I am generally known for being young, my light and airy timeless images, and my talent to showcase my clients as they are in their special chapter of life.
The thing I am most proud of as a business owner is my ability to really go for it despite my insecurities or doubts. If it weren’t for that go-getter trait of mine, I wouldn’t be here today!
I think the part of my business that sets me apart from others is the fact that I can truly cater my sessions towards my clients. Of course, there are some limitations to that but for the most part, I let my clients be themselves and let myself be there to capture them as people, not as poses.
What were you like growing up?
Well, I am still growing up, haha. But when I was younger, I was super shy, awkward, scared of social situations in general, but funny and sweet when I needed to be! I have always loved music and arts… I played piano for 5 years and have been playing violin for 3! Of course, I have always loved photography as well. One could definitely call me a creative introvert! 🙂
Pricing:
- Senior and Lifestyle Portrait Sessions start at $250
- Wedding Photography Coverage starts at $1000
Contact Info:
- Website: katiechangphotography.com
- Email: Katiechangphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiechangphoto/
Image Credit:
Katie Chang Photography
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