We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kelsey Ulmer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kelsey, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Mental health has been a constant companion on my journey, and it actually played a pivotal role in the creation of Captured Forever Photography. I have always battled anxiety and depression, especially during the challenging times of infertility. When my husband and I first decided we wanted to try to get pregnant, I knew I wanted to be a stay at home mom when the time came. We naively assumed it would happen quickly, so I started Captured Forever Photography as something to fill my time, since I was already between jobs. We quickly came to find out that starting a family would not be an easy road for us and soon I found my self putting my energy and passions into this photography business. It was a tough journey, emotionally draining, and some days, it was particularly hard to photograph expectant mothers when I was yearning to experience motherhood myself.
But in the midst of those challenges, there was a profound beauty in capturing the joy of new families. The hopeful anticipation in their eyes and the promise of a new beginning gave me a sense of purpose and hope. It was a reminder that life, in all its complexities, could still be breathtakingly beautiful: and that was worth continuing to fight for.
My personal struggle didn’t end with infertility. When I finally became pregnant, I faced severe medical traumas during childbirth and postpartum. These experiences were incredibly tough, both physically and emotionally. I had fought so hard to become a mother and instead of being able to enjoy it or at least have the opportunity to clumsily find my footing like all other new parents, I was faced with obstacles that sent me back into that anxiety spiral I knew too well. Recognizing the signs of my anxiety building up became crucial for my well-being. It was a wake-up call that self-care is non-negotiable. I quickly learned that I could not just keep pushing through without taking care of myself.
Now, with Captured Forever Photography, I’ve turned my challenges into strengths. The business not only allows me to pursue my passion for photography but also provides a platform to connect with diverse families. My own experiences have made me more empathetic and understanding. I can relate to the unique stories and challenges of my clients, creating a deeper connection during our sessions.
In essence, my journey has taught me the importance of resilience and self-care. By prioritizing my mental health, I’ve not only overcome personal challenges but have also built a business that thrives on understanding and capturing the essence of each family’s story.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Captured Forever Photography is more than just a business to me; it’s a testament to resilience and the power of storytelling. Specializing in family, maternity, and newborn photography in Orange County, I focus on capturing the unique narratives of each family we work with. What sets us apart is the personal touch and understanding that comes from my own life experiences.
The most exciting aspect of my work is the opportunity to create timeless memories for families. I believe that every family has a unique story, and through my lens, I strive to capture those precious moments that define their journey. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about preserving emotions, connections, and the essence of a moment that can be cherished for generations.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career is the ability to connect with clients on a deeper level. Having gone through the challenges of infertility, pregnancy complications, and postpartum struggles, I bring a level of empathy and understanding that goes beyond traditional photography. My own experiences allow me to relate to the emotions and vulnerabilities of my clients, creating a safe and comfortable space for them during our sessions.
In essence, Captured Forever Photography is not just a business—it’s a journey, a story, and a celebration of resilience. I look forward to continuing to connect with families, share in their joys, and help them create lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful:
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and navigate through challenges has been crucial. Resilience allowed me to persevere through the difficulties of infertility, medical traumas, new motherhood, and the demanding nature of entrepreneurship. To develop resilience, it’s important to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, learn from setbacks, and cultivate a positive mindset. Surrounding yourself with a support system can also provide the strength needed to overcome obstacles.
Empathy: Understanding and connecting with the emotions of my clients have been essential in my work. Empathy, born out of my own experiences, allows me to relate to the unique stories and challenges that families bring to each session. Developing empathy involves actively listening, seeking to understand different perspectives, and being open to diverse experiences. It’s a skill that not only enriches personal relationships but also enhances the ability to capture the authentic emotions of others through photography.
Photography Skills and Continuous Learning: Technical proficiency in photography is fundamental to delivering high-quality work. Continuously honing my photography skills and staying updated on industry trends has been vital. No matter your experience or career level in the industry, education is extremely important to me and a major focus for my business in the coming year.
My advice for those early in their journey is to embrace the learning process. Understand that challenges are opportunities to grow, and each experience contributes to your expertise. Cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement, seek mentorship from experienced individuals in your field, and never underestimate the power of networking. Surround yourself with a supportive community that can provide guidance, share insights, and offer encouragement during both the highs and lows of your journey.
Remember, your unique experiences and perspective are assets that can set you apart. Use them to fuel your passion and drive, and let them shine through in your work.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth has been in achieving a healthier work-life balance. As a mom to an active toddler, I’ve come to a profound realization that my roles as a mother, wife, and friend are paramount, and they deserve the utmost attention.
One key tool I’ve implemented is a strict adherence to set work hours. By establishing clear boundaries, I’ve created a structured routine that allows me to be fully present during work and, equally importantly, fully present with my family during designated off-hours. This deliberate separation has not only increased my productivity during work hours but has also allowed me to be more engaged and focused on my family when it matters most.
I’ve also adopted the practice of scheduling time off. Recognizing the importance of rest and rejuvenation, I make a conscious effort to plan breaks and vacations. This intentional time away from work not only serves as a reset for my mind but also provides quality moments for bonding with my family. It’s a reminder that stepping back from work is not only acceptable but necessary for overall well-being.
Listening to the needs of my body, mind, and family has become a priority. If I sense burnout approaching or notice signs of stress, I’ve learned to pivot and recalibrate. This might mean taking a day off, rescheduling commitments, or simply stepping back to assess and reprioritize. It’s a practice rooted in self-awareness and a commitment to maintaining a harmonious balance.
Above all, I’ve come to understand the true value of relationships. While the success of my business is important, the relationships I nurture with my family and friends are even more so. Prioritizing these connections has not only enriched my personal life but has also had a positive impact on my professional endeavors. A fulfilled and supported individual is better equipped to bring creativity and passion to their work.
In essence, my focus on work-life balance has been transformative. It’s a continuous journey of learning, adapting, and recognizing that success is not just defined by business achievements but by the strength and fulfillment found in personal connections and well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.capturedforever.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/Captured_forever_photo
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/KelseyCapturedForeverPhotography
- Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/captured-forever-photography-irvine
Image Credits
Picture of myself with camera taken by Spark Studios
