We’re looking forward to introducing you to Katy Gish. Check out our conversation below.
Katy, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: When was the last time you felt true joy?
There are two moments in my life that stand out to me. The first was in Ghana, on a safari jeep ride in the rain. I remember thinking, “I don’t think I’ve ever felt so free and happy”. The second was just last year, I had just proposed to my fiancée during a Disney trip for my birthday. We were running around the park, eating ice cream, riding every ride, and giggling like little kids. In both of these moments, I felt like I had made it in life and had everything I wanted in that moment.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Katy Gish, and my first love is travel. Through my photos, I aim to capture not just the beauty of the places I visit, but the stories, emotions, and sense of wonder that make each place unique. I want every photo to transport you to that moment in time and make you feel like you are right there with me. Right now, I am focusing on funding my travels by photographing families, couples, and businesses. My goal is to expand my travel series and help people connect to their favorite places, even if they can’t be there themselves.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I’ve lost several people that I was close with at a very young age. I had lost my dad, aunt, and all my grandparents before I even graduated high school. As devastating as that was, grief has taught me that time is short and we should love those around us with our whole hearts while we can. It’s so easy to get caught up in things that don’t truly matter, only to realize we’ve missed precious moments with family and friends. In the end, is there anything more important than spending time with the people you love?
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Stop. Breathe. You don’t have to take on every lesson, every club, and fill every minute of your schedule. Spend more time with your aunt and mom, and give yourself time to feel and process your emotions. You can’t run away from the past. Just focus on being a kid; that’s all you need to worry about right now. You have such a bright future ahead of you. Don’t worry, everything will work out.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
A few people come to mind, both in my life and as outside inspirations. In my life, it would be my mother. She is endlessly kind and patient, and I try to be more like her in everything I do. She has made the world a softer, kinder place for me.
As for those who inspire me, I have always admired Jane Goodall, Steve Irwin, and Robin Williams. not just for who they were, but for how they influenced the world. Through their eyes, they saw the planet as a place where people and animals could coexist with empathy and care. They taught us that laughter and kindness can heal almost anything.
As I write this, Jane Goodall has just passed. She will be forever missed and will live on in my heart with each and every animal I encounter and photograph.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
I believe I would regret not taking more time to simply enjoy life; laughing with friends, having game nights with family, traveling, or just sitting outside and taking it all in. What’s the point of working so hard if we never pause to enjoy the life we’re building?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katygish.picfair.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katygishphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katygishphotography
