Today we’d like to introduce you to Karlyn Stanley.
Karlyn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
When I was 16 years old, I was hired at a studio as a photographer, where little did I know, I spent all high school and college working, 6 years. The company I was working for was going downhill and eventually went bankrupt. When I noticed the corporation was falling apart, my boss, Sloane, whom I worked with for 6 years, left first. I left about a year later, and they shut down all locations a year after that.
I always used the studio cameras provided and never actually purchased my own until I was 18. I bought a Sony A600 and only did fun shoots here and there, but never took it seriously.
In early 2019, I started dating an amazing man who I had the pleasure of watching turn his dreams that he always spoke of into his new career, which he never thought would be possible. We got married last November and, on our honeymoon, something inside me just snapped. I cried and told him I wasn’t doing what I wanted to with my life and that I missed taking photos. He told me that if that’s how I really felt, he would support me and help me pursue this in any way that he can. I started forming my business and taking it seriously immediately, creating a website, printing business cards, and upgrading equipment right away. I still believe if it wasn’t for him, I would’ve never made this leap.
In April of this year, I went full time with my business, doing families, children, weddings, and even some branding photos for other businesses. Shortly after this, my old boss, Sloane, and I decided to open our own studio space in Goodlettsville so we can take photos no matter the weather. I’m now 24 years old and Ive never felt this fulfilled. I’m very grateful.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I can’t lie, it’s honestly been very smooth so far. Of course, there are small challenges here and there especially getting used to running a business when you’ve never owned a business before, but I really am blessed to have made it this far this fast.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Doing photography, I don’t think I specialize in any specific area. I personally love the diversity of clients and occasions that I get to capture. No two photoshoots are the same, as everyone has a completely different personality and style. I’m a people person, so I love that. I also think that is what sets me apart from others, the fact that I don’t shoot just one specific area of individuals.
I’m most proud of my wedding photography. For someone to hire you to shoot something so important is their life and trust that you’ll do it right, is a huge accomplishment in my eyes.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking is huge. My advice is to always put yourself out there. Go to all the events, talk to all the people, find some groups online, and just be confident when doing so. If you’re confident in what you do, others will be confident in you too. Always be open to learning new things and taking criticism in the best way to make your work better and better each time.
Contact Info:
- Email: Karlynstanleyphoto@gmail.com
- Website: Www.karlynstanleyphotography.com
- Instagram: @karlynstanleyphotography
- Facebook: Karlyn Stanley photography
Image Credits:
Karlyn Stanley Photography
