Today we’d like to introduce you to Katelyn Wamsley.
Hi Katelyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I came about photography in a rather unique way. My sisters were big into rodeo at the time and my mom said I could do video or photo and I chose video. Sadly, I was more interested in watching them compete than in filming them. My mom decided that we needed to change things up. She gave me her nice DSLR to start shooting on.
I was obsessed. I had families reach out to me to take their photos and then the holy grail – weddings. I shot my first wedding in the state of Wyoming and it was -40 degrees out. The bride wanted to take photos outside so badly but then got outside and immediately (thankfully) changed her mind. I shot this wedding on a 50mm and 35mm lenses with a Canon Rebel t3i the same camera I shot rodeos on. I was 17 at the time.
From there I grew and have shot many weddings since then and have grown into who I am today. Just two years ago I took a break from major wedding photography and took up food photography. I was the food photographer for Utah State University for those two years and loved every minute of it. Food doesn’t ask to be 30 pounds lighter and ya know you can’t beat that!
I now am the content creator for Utah State University, Go Aggies! Which includes taking pictures of events, students, products, and more! I love it all and I am so grateful for an outlet that lets me express myself.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been so many struggles! I made a really tough decision to take a break from photography completely for a year and a half to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was so hard to leave when my career was just taking off. I served in Arkansas/Missouri and have had the privilege to go back and take pictures of the area!
I feel running a business is difficult as a photographer in Utah. There are so many of us and yet it feels so lonely at the same time. It’s hard rooting for yourself but also pushing yourself to be better.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a couples & brands photographer. I specialize in bridals, engagements, and brand photography. I’m known as the one who wears many hats. I’m most proud of being able to easily transition between styles of photography. Not many can go shoot photos of food and apparel then turn around and show the emotion and love between a couple. I feel that by being so versatile gives me an edge.
What’s next?
Ahh, I don’t kiss and tell! I just launched BRANDED by Katelyn Nicole which focuses on small business owners outsourcing their work and consulting them in their business. That’s taken up a lot of my time. I will give you a small nugget that there might be some styled shoots/retreats coming your way in 2023! I can’t wait.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.katelynnicolephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katelynnicolephoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katelynnicolephoto
Image Credits
Katelyn Nicole Photography
