Photog Life February Featured Photographer ~ Kim Martin
Kim Martin
Congratulations to our March featured photographer, Kim Martin. We had the chance to chat a little with her and we are super excited to share more about this talented photographer!
Tell us a little about you and your personal life. Married, kids, fur babies? We want to know it all!
My name is Kim and I have lived in Jacksonville FL for most of my life. I have 2 wonder tiny humans (Presley and Freya) and an amazing boyfriend (Jordan). We have a princess dog named Chessie. She is a chocolate lab. I am currently working a full time job as Vet Tech on top of photography. busy busy.
What made you decide to get into photography and when did you first start?
I first started photography about 10 years ago. I wanted to get into photography when I was younger because snapping photos just excited me. I loved seeing people smile.
What type of photography do you shoot? What are you most passionate about?
I currently shoot everything from pet photography to weddings. I am most passionate about photographing kids and events. I am also extremely passionate about helping other people grow in their business and personal life.
Not that this really matters, but what do you shoot with?
I currently shoot with my Canon 6D Mark ii and prime lenses. The 35mm and 85mm are my favs!
What makes your passion shine? What are you most passionate about when you are holding your camera?
Reflecting on my career there is a clear theme in all the sessions where I see my passion has shined through; People. I have always been passionate about people seeing their beauty and making people have a memorable experience while being photographed.
During your journey as a photographer, what has been the hardest part?
The hardest part for me has been figuring out my style and learning to just walk away from a job when I am too busy. Even if they say pretty please with sugar on top.
If you were to go back in time, is there anything you would change?
That is a loaded question.. lol Photography wise I would only change that I wish I would have started younger and went to school for marketing. Over all No. I just don't think I would change a darn thing. Everything I have failed at has put me right where I am suppose to be today.
If you could photography anyone, alive or not, who would it be and why?
Steve Irwin. EASY! I would have loved to chase him around with a camera! Anything I have ever seen of him he is always so stoked for life and loves animals. That's pretty cool in my book.
What kind of legacy do you wan to leave behind as a photographer?
Margaret Atwood said “In the end, we'll all become stories.” that has always sat with me. The idea of leaving a legacy is the need or the desire to be remembered for what you have contributed to the world. So I suppose I want to be remembered for my integrity, humility, positive thinking and finding beauty in ALL people or things I photograph.
What advice do you have for a photographer that is just starting out?
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! Don't charge for sessions until you know how to use your camera and understand what composition is. If you have a family like me get ready for a decade of sacrifice. I've sat in the car and cried knowing that pursuing my dream was a harder sacrifice for my family than it was for me. Sometimes going out and taking pictures can really beat your personal life down. Also accept being ignored. When you want a job there are 2134654 people ready to do it for 100s less than you but DO NOT GIVE UP or sell yourself short! Know your worth and stick with it!
Thank you Kim for sharing your story and advice. If you want to see more of Kim's work you can follow her here.
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