We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katherine Vandergriff. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katherine below.
Hi Katherine, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
I’ve always had a love for the arts, which naturally led me to dance from a young age. From ages 4 to 16, I dedicated nearly 10 hours a week to classes and training, which instilled in me resilience and commitment. Throughout every season, I participated in competitions and conventions, constantly learning new skills. Each dance season emphasized teamwork and a strong work ethic—skills that became foundational for me. When I transitioned to photography at 16, those lessons easily translated into my work. I developed a strong workflow, learned to handle pressure, and cultivated the discipline necessary to thrive in a creative field. This background continues to shape my approach to photography, where I aim to capture not just images but also the emotions and stories behind them!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Hi, I’m Katherine, a freelance photographer based in New Mexico. I specialize in capturing genuine moments and the stories behind them, whether it’s through portrait sessions or events. I believe that making my clients feel comfortable is key to revealing their true selves, which is something I prioritize in every shoot.
Recently, I’ve been diving into themed mini-sessions, like my fall mini sessions, where I incorporate fun props and seasonal elements to create memorable experiences. I’m also excited about the opportunity to expand my brand by collaborating with local businesses and artists to create unique experiences that showcase our collective talents.
What I love most about photography is its ability to connect people and foster a sense of community around art and creativity. I’m passionate about sharing not just images but the emotions and stories that come with them, and I’m always looking for new ways to engage with my audience and fellow creators.
If you’re interested in my work, keep an eye out for upcoming events and collaborations—there’s so much more to come!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I believe the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as a photographer are self-awareness, patience, and attention to detail.
Self-awareness: Recognizing when I was approaching burnout was a crucial turning point in my career. With my ADHD, I’ve learned that it’s essential to prioritize my mental health by taking breaks and giving myself permission to slow down. For those early in their journey, I recommend regularly checking in with yourself. Listen to your body and mind; if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to step back and recharge.
Patience: Photography often requires waiting for the right moment or the perfect light. Learning to be patient has allowed me to capture images that tell a deeper story. For beginners, I suggest practicing mindfulness during shoots—take a moment to breathe and observe before pressing the shutter. This can lead to more thoughtful compositions and reduce the anxiety that often comes with a fast-paced creative environment.
Attention to detail and quality over quantity: Embracing the finer details in my work has transformed how I approach photography. I take the time to create moodboards, learning about the people I’m working with, and really envisioning what we want to do before it happens. Learning new skills—like understanding camera settings I didn’t know I had, mastering editing techniques, and exploring different styles—has made a significant difference in my work. Additionally, focusing on quality over quantity has been crucial. Rather than rushing to produce numerous images, I prioritize creating fewer, more impactful photographs. For those starting out, I recommend dedicating time to learn and experiment with your equipment and software. This knowledge not only enhances your images but also builds your confidence as a photographer.
Overall, I encourage those starting out to prioritize their well-being and take the time to savor their creative process. Embracing a slower pace can lead to richer experiences and more meaningful work in the long run.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes, I’m definitely looking for folks to partner or collaborate with! I love working with makeup artists, hairstylists, clothing stylists, crafters, small businesses , and wedding vendors on projects that uplift everyone involved. Collaboration can enhance creativity and create beautiful experiences, whether it’s for events, weddings, or other artistic endeavors.
Additionally, I host meetups that are a great opportunity to connect and collaborate with others in the local community. These gatherings help us support each other and explore new creative possibilities. If you’re interested in collaborating or joining a meetup, feel free to reach out to me through my website or social media.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katsphilm.com
- Instagram: @katsphilm
- Facebook: katsphilm
Image Credits
Katherine Vandergriff | @katsphilm
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