We recently connected with Caitlin Leys and have shared our conversation below.
Caitlin, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a continuous journey of self-awareness and self-compassion. I’d like to share that it hasn’t been a process where I’ve completely eradicated those feelings; even now, I still experience imposter syndrome from time to time. What has changed, however, is my approach and response to it.
I’ve cultivated a habit of recognizing and valuing my accomplishments, no matter how small. I make a conscious effort to document my successes, which serves as tangible evidence of my capabilities and growth.
Another vital strategy has been focusing on continuous learning and improvement. Instead of dwelling on what I perceive as inadequacies, I channel that energy towards acquiring new knowledge and skills.
Lastly, I have embraced the art of self-compassion. I try to be kind to myself and understand that it is completely normal to have fluctuations in confidence and to doubt yourself occasionally. What matters is how we bounce back from those feelings.
By implementing these strategies, I have managed to diminish the potency of imposter syndrome in my life. Although it still surfaces from time to time, I am now equipped with the tools to navigate through it more effectively and continue on my path with resilience and determination.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In my role as a commercial product photographer specializing in working with beauty brands, I find myself constantly immersed in a world of vivid imagery and dynamic creativity. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and creatives in the industry. Each project is a collaboration of shared visions, where a melting pot of ideas comes to fruition. It’s this collective journey of crafting something spectacular that makes my job genuinely fulfilling.
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?
Navigating my path to becoming a successful product photographer, patience and networking emerged as pivotal cornerstones. Patience was my ally during the initial stages, where honing my craft and establishing a distinct style took precedence. It allowed me to perfect each detail in my work, fostering a portfolio that truly resonated with my artistic vision. Parallelly, networking allowed me to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. It facilitated collaborative ventures, and opened doors to opportunities I hadn’t anticipated, fueling my growth both as an artist and a business entity. Lastly, acquiring my degree in advertising photography was a period that significantly improved my technical skills, providing knowledge and hands-on experience to execute technically sound projects. Together, technical knowledge, patience, and networking have sculpted my journey, intertwining skill refinement with valuable industry connections, ultimately crafting a successful and fulfilling career in product photography.
Developing patience when starting a business involves understanding that substantial growth occurs over time, not overnight. It’s essential to celebrate the small victories and learn from the setbacks, adapting and evolving with each step. When it comes to expanding your network, remember that building genuine relationships is key. Engage with peers and mentors in your field through social media, online forums, and community events, fostering connections that can provide diverse perspectives and opportunities. Meanwhile, growing in technical skill as a photographer is a continuous journey. Embrace a learning mindset, constantly seeking avenues to hone your craft, whether through formal education, practical experience, or learning from other seasoned professionals. This triad of patience, networking, and skill enhancement forms a strong foundation for a thriving career in photography.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who not only has a clear vision of their brand’s identity but also values the artistic input that a photographer can bring to the table. They are open to collaboration and experimentation, allowing a relationship where we can co-create something truly spectacular and authentic. These clients appreciate the nuanced approach I take as an artist, understanding that my creative vision can complement and elevate their brand to new heights. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work with clients who trust in my expertise and are excited to embark on a creative journey together, creating an environment of mutual respect and innovation.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.caitlinphotographer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlinphotographer/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-leys-0b3974144/
Image Credits
Caitlin Leys © 2023
