Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlyn McLaughlin.
Hi Caitlyn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I bought my first camera in 2015 while I was in college pursuing a degree in Graphic Design. Around that same time, I developed a love for makeup and began freelancing for weddings, proms, and special events. While I enjoyed that work, I found myself drawn more toward creative, artistic makeup looks, so I started asking friends to model for me. We’d spend entire days shooting in my backyard or turning my home into a makeshift studio. After completing their makeup, I would photograph them—and that’s really where my passion for being behind the camera began.
At the same time, I was learning Photoshop in school and realized I could take my images even further through editing and creative effects. That’s when everything clicked—I could combine my passions for photography, makeup artistry, and design into something truly unique.
Since then, I’ve developed a style that blends creativity and storytelling. I specialize in creative and fantasy shoots, branding, events, and lifestyle photography. Offering a wide range of services allows me to be part of so many meaningful moments. Whether I’m helping a business owner bring their brand to life, working closely with a bride to capture every detail of her wedding day, or transforming a client into something magical for a fantasy shoot, I genuinely love creating and capturing moments that feel authentic, special, and unforgettable
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road definitely hasn’t always been smooth. There are so many behind-the-scenes challenges of owning your own business that no one can fully prepare you for. On the surface, working for yourself and creating your own schedule sounds ideal, but what you don’t always realize is that it comes with wearing a lot of different hats.
You’re not just the photographer—you’re also the accountant, the bookkeeper, the website designer, and, in today’s social media-driven world, your own marketing team. Staying consistent online, keeping up with trends, and continuing to attract clients all becomes part of your daily responsibility.
At times, it can feel like being a one-woman show, trying to balance every aspect of the business while still being present for the people you love. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of setting boundaries—carving out dedicated work time and protecting personal time so you don’t burn out.
It’s not always easy, but once you start to find your rhythm, it makes everything that much more rewarding.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m a photographer based in the Murfreesboro, TN area, specializing in creative and fantasy shoots, as well as branding, events, and lifestyle photography. I offer a wide range of services because I genuinely enjoy every part of the creative process—from the initial idea to the final image.
I love working closely with my clients and place a strong emphasis on communication and planning. I spend time getting to know their vision, making sure we’re aligned on the aesthetic and overall execution so they feel confident and excited going into their session. Whether that’s sourcing props for a medieval princess shoot or diving deep into a client’s business to ensure their brand identity is fully captured, my goal is to create a thoughtful, personalized experience from start to finish.
I pride myself on delivering signature, high-quality images while making the process as seamless as possible for my clients. I handle the details and creative direction so they can simply show up, feel comfortable, and fully step into their confidence in front of the camera.
My creative and fantasy sessions are especially close to my heart and truly set my work apart. There’s something incredibly rewarding about bringing whimsical, imaginative concepts to life—something you don’t always find in traditional photography. With my background in graphic design, I’m able to elevate those sessions even further, and I love watching clients fully embody the characters they’ve envisioned. It’s a collaborative, transformative experience that results in images that feel both magical and uniquely personal.
What makes you happy?
I find happiness in the small, meaningful moments—the little “glimmers” of everyday life. It can be something as simple as that first warm day after winter, sitting outside with the sun on your skin, or a conversation with a friend that leaves you genuinely laughing.
Those moments remind me to slow down and appreciate where I am, and they ground me in gratitude. They also make me even more thankful that I get to do what I love—capturing those same kinds of real, joyful moments for others
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.caityscaptures.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caityscaptures/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caityscaptures/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/caitys-captures-murfreesboro
