We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelsey Chang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelsey, what are you inspired by?
I’ve always been inspired by stories: the silly, heartfelt, happened-to-be-at-the-same-place-at-the-same-time, resilient, quirky, awkward, what-are-the-chances stories. The “untold stories” walking around you, passing by you in a grocery store, waiting your table, or holding the door open for you that we’re unaware of. Photography has the power to transfer and convey emotions and stories that words just don’t do justice – and I get to be a part of that!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The most common feedback I get from my clients is that I make them feel comfortable and relaxed! Most people have never done a professional photoshoot before and don’t know what to expect. They can come feeling unconfident, awkward, and nervous. Clients aren’t just hiring photographers to take good photos of them but to also have an overall positive experience! These feelings are totally NORMAL! Not everyone is an Instagram Influencer! My goal is to show that clients can trust my directions and expertise so that they can fully enjoy the moment. I build their confidence throughout the photoshoot and love seeing the transformation and authenticity! Passion without perseverance and (pain) is often just emotion. Taking a passion and turning it into something like a business is all about pushing through the moments when you “don’t” feel passionate! Nothing worth having comes without risk. As a creative, I’ve had to learn self-discipline and consistency if I really want to establish what I love doing. You have to put in the hours, do research, listen to podcasts, look for resources, keep learning, and remember to not be so hard on yourself and enjoy the journey. Honestly, it’s simple! I just want to brighten people’s lives and give them these precious memories that they’ll keep forever. My parents were either holding a camera or a camcorder when I was growing up, and what seemed trivial or pointless to my teenager self turned out to be something that continues to bring my family together even in adulthood.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love finding new places and exploring even if I’ve visited the area many times! My usual go-to method is to scout the area for eateries, coffee shops, parks, etc. that stand out to me. Post a Facebook status asking for recommendations and hidden gems. I *always* build my itinerary around food, so head to Instagram, look up hashtags, save and then compile them into a document where you can then map everything out. Then I plan tentative agendas for each day based on which locations are closest to each other!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, every person/couple/family I’ve worked with deserves a shoutout because they’ve chosen to trust me with their special moments, giving me the opportunity to learn and become a better photographer with every shoot. I don’t take it lightly! Outside of that, developing a business is hard work especially when the logistical side of things is not your gifting! It often feels like I’m learning 5 different occupations. I’ve often cried “I JUST WANT TO TAKE PICTURES :(” That’s why I’m blessed to have friends and connections who foster Community over Competition, sharing their own trials and errors and resources. Final and most important shoutout to God who has given me these creative talents and the passion to do something more with them! God provided for me long before sponsored ads, promotions, and content creation, when I was just a young girl with a handed down hand-me-down digital camera!

Website: www.kelseycphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelseycphotography/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kelseycphotography/

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