We are ecstatic to introduce our next featured photographer for our Featured Friday spotlight, Kerry Varnum of Kerry Varnum Photography. Talk about a photographer crush 😉 The way this amazing individual captures the world of a child sends our hearts sailing. If it be the most gorgeous image of a child’s pure innocence, or the not so innocent fact that every kid does pick their nose, her photographs share it all. For all of our fellow photographer’s out there, Kerry is the instructor of a workshop titled, “Capturing the Everyday”. As you can see through her images, she does exactly that. Capturing those special moments that most of us forget to take the time to notice. We find huge amounts of inspiration through Kerry, and couldn’t be happier to share her work with you!

Business Name 

Kerry Varnum Photography

Website

http://www.kerryvarnumphotography.com

How would you describe yourself to someone you just met?

I’m an introvert with extravert tendencies

When did you decide to become a photographer? Why?

I’ve had a camera for awhile now. When my first daughter was born almost 10 years ago, was when I first picked up a real camera. It was film and I loved to set up little photo sessions with her at least once a month. But I had NO clue what I was doing!! I shot in auto, and I never paid any attention to light(The most important element of all!!!). It wasn’t until my third child was born that I switched over to digital. Once I did that, my desire to evolve into a photographer, and not just a mom taking picture, really began.

What gear do you have in your camera bag?

Right now my camera bag is holding a D600, Tamron 90 macro, Nikon 24-85 and Sigma 35. Yeah…it’s pretty heavy, but I lug that thing everywhere!

What was the first piece of equipment that you bought?

A Minolta film camera

If you could only use one lens an entire session which one would you choose and why?

My 35mm. 1.4. I love that lens so, so much. It’s great with low light, I love shooting at 1.4, and it’s wide; I love to get as much in the frame as I can!

What advice would you give to someone just beginning in photography and hoping to have a business of their own?

Take your time to learn your craft. So many beginners believe that all they need is a camera to set up shop. The camera is simply a tool. As artist, we must learn lighting, composition, skin tones and post processing. The list goes on and on. You will set yourself apart from the others if you master all of these elements before you start charging for your work. Shoot a lot. The more you shoot, the better you will be. If that is your number one priority, you will succeed!

What type of photos do you take for yourself when not working with clients?

I love to take environmental portraits of my children.

Who are some photographers who have influenced you and your style?

I kind of just fell into my own style on my own. I shoot everyday, so that has been a tremendous help. Shoot what you love, not the style you love, and your own voice will eventually be heard.

How would you describe your style?

I like to mix lifestyle type elements into my portraiture to tell a story of who my subject is.

What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you during a session?

I’ve never had anything funny happen, but I did show up to a session without my camera. That was pretty embarrassing!!

What has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome?

Learning how to ignore that little voice in my head that said I would never be any good.

What is your favorite time of day to shoot?

I love to shoot when the sun is setting, but that is not always practical for me. (My kids go to bed way before the sun sets.) But in a perfect world, that is when I would shoot.

If you had to stop taking photos right now, what would you do instead?

Hmmmm….maybe I would be a baker.

Have you attended college or had any formal education in photography?

I’ve taken various workshops, but nothing formal.

What do you do to get your clients to relax with you?

Talk a lot. (Which is not something I’m great at)

What are your photography related goals for 2014?

I’m leaning towards the teaching part of photography. I plan to continue in that direction for 2014.

What do you do to become a better photographer?

I shoot everyday. It’s impossible NOT to grow when you practice something every single day.

How do you set yourself apart from the crowd?

I shoot what I love and try not to copy anyone. Of course I’m inspired by others, but I always try to put my own spin on things.

What do you think your next photography related investment will be?

I would love to upgrade my macro lens.

If you had to recommend ONE thing that a photographer needs in their camera bag, what would that be?

A prime lens. Any focal length will do!

Hug hugs to Kerry for allowing us to interview her! We are thrilled to feature her work as our “Featured Friday | Photographer Spotlight” featured photographer for our blog this week. We are in love with the images of Kerry Varnum Photography!