Check Out Kourtney Aavatsmark’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kourtney Aavatsmark. 

Hi Kourtney, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I remember it like it was yesterday, received my first point and shoot camera at 11 years old and I fell in love with it all. From then on, I became more and more curious about photography, lighting, and composition. What fascinated me so much? The way I could freeze time, and realizing a moment could be still forever. You can look back at the moment again and again and feel the way you felt in that specific time in your life. It was truly a beautiful discovery! So, I continued to learn, and once I graduated high school, I purchased my first Canon camera. It was time to study, to learn the ins and outs of what makes a photograph special. I have put in over 1,500 hours of learning over the past 12 years, and I keep growing and pushing myself every year that passes. Fast forward to today, and I have a full-time career doing what brings my clients and myself joy every time I pick up my camera. I worked long hours, I studied until my eyes were tired of looking at the screen, and I put in the work to make sure I could make my dreams a reality. There were ups and downs along the way, but I’ll tell you what, I wouldn’t trade any part of my path. I’m so grateful for every single client I have worked with over the years, and I still get excited knowing that I’ll do what I love until I can’t pick up the camera any longer. 

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?
The road has had hills and some mountains to climb, but honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Everything I’ve gone through made me the kind and understanding photographer I am today. You have to have resilience and an eagerness to do better and be the best you can be. I learned that early on. Trust me, there were times where I felt like maybe I should just make it a hobby. Then I remembered the happiness that photography brings to others and myself. It’s like when you get someone a present and watching them open it and seeing their excitement makes the whole experience worthwhile. As long as you believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who uplift and believe in you too, then I say you can accomplish anything you want. Little words of encouragement! 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work? 

I specialize in portrait photography and boudoir photo sessions. I got into boudoir because I found that I have this awesome gift of making others feel comfortable. Using my intuition has been a huge part of how I accomplish this task. By getting to know my client beforehand I have a unique workflow that allows me to understand and impress each client by learning their interests and dislikes. I pay very close attention to detail, and always make sure each client walks away with a smile. 

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If I could give any words of encouragement I would say “You got this! Whatever setbacks you have just remember they are temporary and you’ll figure it out. Please don’t give up, just take a little break.” 

Also, don’t share your failures with family because they will remind you and try to convince you to change careers to something more stable. Keep believing in yourself and never think you’re done learning, seriously, you can learn something new every day! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.kinetickaptures.com
• Instagram: @kinetic_kaptures
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/kinetickaptures

Image Credits
Kinetic Kaptures