Conversations with Carlie Kuhlman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlie Kuhlman.

Carlie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Back in 2017, I was getting a degree in graphic design. I always grew up loving capturing images, but it wasn’t until I bought my first camera that I truly began to fall in love with photography. Capturing the moments that aren’t posed, the behind-the-scenes, the in-between.

I started with families, children, and seniors. Then in 2020, I got hired to be a second shooter for a wedding. I started booking my own clients and fell in love with capturing love. Yes, capturing two people in love and the people around them. Weddings are so full of joy that it was hard to not love.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nooooooo. Started this business from the ground up all by myself. If I could give a piece of advice, you truly learn from failing. and it’s ok to fail. You fall and you get back up again.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a lifestyle and wedding photographer based in Nebraska. I grew up in a tiny town called Murdock, NE. I would say I am most known for weddings and families. Weddings happen all season, but of course, I have my slow months.

But I am capturing families and children all year round. What sets me apart from others is that I truly fly by the seed of my pants. I don’t make my clients wear a certain outfit or drag them to a location I know they won’t like. I want to capture my couples and families for who they truly are. Sure, I am happy to help style outfits and give suggestions on location. But if you want to be home in your jammies, cuddling on the couch, then I will capture that.

I am most proud of from where I came…I have come so far from back in college and never gave up. I have seen many other photographers or people from my small town start a photography business and a few years down the road, no longer do photography. Photography isn’t a hobby, it’s a lifestyle.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Don’t give up. You will fail. Learn from your mistakes. The customer is always right.

Pricing:

• $3,000 Wedding
• $300 Family Session

Contact Info:

• Website: carliekuhlmanphotography.com
• Instagram: @carliekuhlmanphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carliekuhlmanphotography 

Image Credits:
Jess + Aaron, @model_couple_usa, @xpectopatronum, @aaronbaylee, Flowers @petalsstem, Styling @materialgirlsweddings, Charcuterie Board @storyboardcharcuterie, Taylor + Mitch Beauty | Story Beauty Gown | Ellynne Bridal Floral | The Little Flower Company Venue | HuskerCatholic Rings NE Diamond Tiffany + Michael Brides Dress: Lisa Lou Collection at Suburban Bridal Bridesmaid dresses: AZAZIE Florist and Decorator: Stitches and Petals Ian + Lezl @lezlkoe @ian__anthony, Florals @petalsstem, Lauren and Sawyer, Dress: @blushbridal_ne Hair: @hairbybrookeo, @lysslapage, Makeup: @katiekeister, @kissandmakeup_ne, and rings: @blackwellsfinesupplyco, @helzbergdiamonds