We were lucky to catch up with Angie Klein recently and have shared our conversation below.
Angie, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I have always gravitated toward people, and when I started photography, it allowed me to share my love for art and interact with like-minded people in new and exciting ways, allowing me to collaborate with other creatives and express myself on unique platforms. By practicing self-discipline and kindness, I learned to assert and validate myself by doing things I enjoyed; It gave me the confidence I needed to continue putting myself out there. I’ve practiced professional photography for the last ten years, and I’ve been told “no” way too often when I wanted something that eventually lost its meaning; it has always been “easy” for me to network, trust me, you will find someone that will say “yes.”
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I want to start by sharing that photography has always felt so natural. I’ve practiced photography for the last ten years, but it has always been part of my life. When photographing, I allow the images to surprise me; I lead with a feeling, and I’m always eager to get to my computer to see what was captured.
I started practicing photography with friends and family, and eventually, it became more than that. I LOVE photographing people; something about the mixture of nature and human beings brings joy to my soul. My main focus is to freeze a moment and capture a feeling, and The rest is flat-out beauty.
I like working from newborns to weddings and everything in between, but weddings and newborns, something about fresh love attracts my soul.
I love capturing natural moments that are candid and authentic, with a modern aesthetic that is crisp and timeless.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
For years I was turning to formally stagnant, purposefully artificial poses. Still, I find myself returning to those images and finding new interest in awkward moments, uncomfortable smiles, and natural interactions. Lately, I have been going through old source material and rediscovering moments I had previously overlooked. I am rediscovering the beauty in imperfection and finding confidence in one’s own skills as a photographer.
When feeling discouraged by the outcome, I always find it helpful to take a step back and return once I feel calmed and I can look at the images judgment free. While taking a step back and returning to work with a fresh perspective is beneficial, it is essential to highlight that self-doubt and imposter syndrome are devastating forms of discouragement leading to surrender.
One thing that has always encouraged me has been knowing my clients hire me for my skill and expertise, you will not be suitable for everyone, and that’s ok.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
One thing my parents did that has made a huge impact on my life is their strong faith-based behaviors. They have gone where their faith has moved them regardless of hardships or discomfort.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.reelsofjoyphotography.com
- Instagram: @reelsofjoyphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reelsofjoyphotography
Image Credits
Angie Klein, www.reelsofjoyphotography.com.
