Meet Kelly Czupkiewicz

We were lucky to catch up with Kelly Czupkiewicz recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Kelly with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

Both of my parents were very blue collar when I was growing up. My Dad worked overnights until I was probably in middle school, so I remember him sleeping thru the day for a big part of my childhood – I loved being able to see him, but it usually wasn’t until the weekend! My mother worked part time as well, but was still able to take me to dance lessons, singing lessons, and whatever else I wanted to do. When I was into surfing, she used to drive me to the beach every afternoon after school to surf. I know it was probably a lot of sacrifice for them, and I know how hard they worked to make sure I had a good life.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a wedding photographer!
I always had an interest in photography, but never thought I could have it be a successful career. I went to college for Political Science, and eventually decided against pursuing that and found myself working in libraries. I ended up getting a masters degree in library science and becoming a librarian full time. While I was doing this, I had started a small photography business that was my passion project. I never thought it would grow! But it began to.
I continued working at the library while I built my business. After 10 years at the library my photography income was where it needed to be for me to quit, so I did! I have been full time doing photography for 6 years and have never looked back! I am so fortunate to be incredibly successful in my industry. I take larger numbers of weddings than most photographers do, and all without a team. I have streamlined my processes for success. In 2024 I had my busiest year ever, with 99 weddings.
I still can’t believe I get to do my passion for my job!

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?

I joke around that I am a cockroach. I am a survivor. I have a lot of self discipline and willpower and that has helped me in my business pursuits. I am always willing to put in the time, and enjoy the hard work.
I am also curious and have a big interest in business. While most photographers are creatives, I consider myself more of an entrepreneur which has helped immensely.
If you are early in your journey – there is no overnight success. There is no magic formula. If you build a solid foundation for your business (which takes a while) you will see results.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

I love all the Malcom Gladwell books but ‘Outliers’ is a favorite.
Lots of time success has a bit to do with circumstances and luck, which I think is important to know! But sometimes – you can make your own luck, too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kellyseaimages.com
• Instagram: kellyseaimages
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/kellyseaimages