We were lucky to catch up with Krystal Simmons recently and have shared our conversation below.
Krystal , we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I have learned the importance of grace! In 3rd or 4th grade I had an art teacher who taught me that in art, a mistake can be transformed. I never forgot that. I think it’s important to accept the fact that mistakes will be made not only in art, but in life, and it doesn’t make me any less talented or capable. As a matter of fact, the better I get at accepting and transforming my mistakes, the more confident I am in my abilities to be successful.
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’m Krystal Simmons, a photographer located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, specifically Allentown. (Although I am known to suggest other locations if it will make for more dynamic visuals!) I specialize in capturing women celebrating their existence and their achievements. In my photography business, I prioritize a hands-on approach with clients, focusing on authenticity rather than following trends. I aim to create an environment at my studio where no one feels lost upon arrival, and everyone understands they’re in a safe space where they can be themselves.
I’m also a caricature artist, which I started doing as a summer job in 2005! (You know, those cartoons you see at the amusement parks with big heads)! I can be booked hourly for birthday parties, wedding receptions, corporate events, and more.
Basically, I love seeing people smile so much I decided to make it my career twice!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Acceptance — Before you get really good at anything, you’ll probably be bad (even really bad) at it first. Once you accept that, it gets easier to keep going, as long as you’re working toward improvement.
2. Curiosity— Now that you have a solid understanding that you might suck, HAVE FUN anyway. Don’t stop trying new things. Make mistakes. Transform them. Learn from them.
3. Assertiveness — In 2023, we started calling setting boundaries “standing on business.” Learn how to implement boundaries in your personal and professional life. It’s not easy, but again, everything gets easier with practice.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client values originality over recreating trends/other people’s work, actively participates in the creative process, and schedules at least 2 weeks in advance for a seamless and successful photoshoot experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://krystal-simmons.square.site/
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/meechsmommy
Image Credits
Photo of myself: Chauncey Figgures All other photos: Krystal Simmons
