Today we’d like to introduce you to Kali Rogers-Smith.
Kali, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Very long story short:
I come from a creative family and was immersed in the arts at an early age. For reference, my mother was a fashion designer and my father is a long-time musician.
Out of all the forms of the arts that I’ve had the pleasure of learning, I didn’t fully dive into photography until my freshman year at North Carolina State University (#GoWolfpack). I noticed that the university’s Student Media department was actively searching for student photographers, regardless of expertise. I took up the offer as a volunteer photographer and began to learn more about the practice while working for several of the organizations under the Student Media umbrella.
I fell head over heels with photography so much, that I eventually saved up to get my own gear within a year and a half.
Fast forward nearly two decades later, I can honestly say that my life changed for the better through learning how to work a camera, both professionally and personally. I met my husband of 11 years through photography; we even launched a business together in 2011. Additionally, I have had the pleasure of traveling extensively across the country; working with other amazing creatives; and playing an active role in documenting many milestones, individuals, and initiatives through my line of work.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I *wish* I could say that my creative journey was smooth sailing.
Every creative of any medium will tell you that there’s so many obstacles that can often come into play – professional photography is no different. I waltzed into the professional side of photography on faith and thinking I already had a grip on some things since I was a former photojournalist.
Life quickly replied “nah, sis.”
Outside of the obvious stress that often comes with the business of photography, there were definitely some uphill challenges.
As bonkers as it may sound to some, one of the toughest obstacles I had to face head-on was fully accepting how good I was at what I do.
It’s very easy to compare yourself to your peers or other creatives who have talent and a great work ethic. There’s constantly *not* giving yourself credit when you’re doing the opposite for many that you encounter. It took years to fully get over that and to find my own lane. Despite getting booked consistently, You can spend years of perfecting your craft, but if you’re never fully satisfied with *you*, you’ll never fully see the rewards of (a) your evolution, and (b) how much further you can grow.
There was also navigating life after a truck accident caused a major disability for my husband a few years ago. I mentioned that we started doing photography together, but I had to take on a lot after the accident happened. It’s been a rough journey, but we’ve stuck together through it all and he’s always been in my corner no matter what.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Kali Rhe Creative aims to help mission-driven brands and events shine through photography and graphic design. With over 10 years of experience as a multi-disciplinary creative, Kali Rhe Creative’s purpose is to produce creative, authentic images to clients in order to empower and expand their presence.
Providing quality content in a quick turnaround as well as creative direction are two things that I pride myself in. Outside of the years I’ve spent in professional photography, I’ve incorporated many of the lessons learned in my past while working in areas like film/TV, design, and journalism into what I do.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/krhecreative
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/krhecreative
Image Credits
Personal photo courtesy of JCi Creatives.
