Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaci VanderHoek.
Hi Kaci, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My eyes got bigger after watching my first darkroom print slowly come to life. I was drawn to photography to document what I find beautiful all around us. I went to college for photography and political science thinking I would be a photojournalist, but what I found was couples were my favorite subject to photograph. I figured the world needs more joy, love and beauty, there is enough documentation of everything else.
I love being a witness for all of the amazing emotional moments on a wedding day. I pride myself on capturing those intimate moments. Whenever my clients look back on their photos, they’re going to remember what it felt like.
I started my business in Arizona, then we lived in California, now we’re in Utah. I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph weddings all over the Southwest and even internationally in Mexico, Ireland, and France.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting my business was easy an easy decision. Most of the time it felt like smooth sailing but then as I raised my prices or moved to a new state it felt like starting all over again. It was especially hard during the uncertainty of 2020, but that led me to finding joy in elopements and small weddings until big celebrations could make a comeback. I always knew that if I just kept going, I would outlast many photographers who give up in the first 3-5 years. I’m glad I stuck with it!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a wedding photographer specializing in small weddings and elopements in the middle of nowhere. I’m well known for my salt flats photos and drone photography. I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients and others in the industry. I had no idea when I started how close I would get to some of these people. I’m with my clients during the most special (exciting, nerve-wracking, happiest) day of their lives. With that, I’ve also learned a lot of their struggles like losing their baby right before the wedding or their dad dying right after that wedding. It’s an honor to photograph these beautiful people and all of their loved ones.
What sets me apart is that I can read the room. I can give you a safe space to be yourself without judgement. I’ve been referred to as “the calm in the chaos”. I help couples feel grounded and present so they can truly enjoy their wedding day and have amazing photos to remember it all with.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I love taking risks because even if it doesn’t work out, something else will. When I first quit my job to do photography full-time, it was probably too early but I kept going even if I had to find another day job or something part-time during slow seasons. Risks are where you grow and learn!
Pricing:
- 2025 Weddings start at $6000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kacilou.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kacilouphotography
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/kacilouphotography
