Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kierra Fiske. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kierra, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
In my experience, imposter syndrome isn’t something you necessarily overcome — it can come back at any point, and it often does for me! In a world of social media especially, it’s so easy to compare myself to my peers. On top of that, I find myself in competition with myself – where I was last year, or to where I feel I ‘should’ be. It’s easy to get lost in that noise, but as a Christian, I remind myself that I was personally designed to handle everything that comes with the work I’ve been called to do. I truly believe photography is a way for me to come alongside others and show them God’s love. When I focus on that purpose and can reframe my work as a way to serve others, it becomes so much easier to feel like I have intention in this industry and can keep moving forward.
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?
I’m a modern photographer specializing in elegant, natural-light weddings for couples who crave timeless and effortlessly chic imagery. Based in Virginia, I’m fortunate enough to travel across the East Coast (and beyond) for weddings and sessions alike! I love working with couples who prioritize being present on their wedding day, but also want to make sure they have iconic images that’ll remind their future kids just how cool their parents were. It’s all about creating something they’ll look back on for years to come and still feel the same butterflies!
One of my biggest priorities is making sure each couple feels relaxed and at ease, both with me personally and throughout their experience of their wedding day. I believe that when people feel comfortable, they can be themselves, and that’s when the magic happens in photos. The result is imagery that feels natural, artistic, genuine, and, of course, full of love. People have told me that they can “feel the love” when they look at my photos, and that is truly the highest compliment!
This year, I’m really excited to expand my offerings. Along with more weddings, I’m incorporating film photography and Polaroids into each of my packages, planning content days, and attending vendor and bridal shows. I’m also traveling more this year and have some exciting new projects and surprises in the works.
It’s honestly such a privilege to take the things I love—photography, fashion, film, fun—and use them to celebrate the couples I work with. Getting to weave my passions into their special day and create something meaningful for them is something I never take for granted!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Connection – Honestly, connecting with people is at the heart of everything I do. When I’m able to really get to know my couples, their families, really anyone who gets in front of my camera, it makes all the difference in getting those real, emotive moments. Then, from a business standpoint, good connection leads to good word of mouth, which leads to more bookings! The more I connect with clients and fellow vendors, the more I build trust and a sense of community, which is so important in the wedding industry. When you’re genuinely invested in the people you work with, everything flows so much smoother—and it’s way more fun for everyone! A great way to build on this is reaching out to industry professionals you genuinely admire, hopping on a phone call or grabbing coffee with a client, or even attending a vendor fair – make sure you’re being your genuine self and connection will flow naturally!
Confidence – Early on in my photo experience, it was so easy to second-guess myself, compare with others, and be easily swayed in my style and approach. This is definitely not a linear experience – it still happens from time to time! Over the past few years and after lots of trial and error, I’ve learned to lean into what really works for me and my business, and that in turn leads me to the right clients. This process has helped me grow in my confidence – not just in how I carry myself on shoots, but confidence in knowing that I am a good photographer who gives something of value to her clients. Being confident doesn’t mean having it all figured out either; it’s about trusting the process and knowing I’m capable of handling whatever comes my way. My best advice for growing in confidence as a photographer is to just shoot more! Get comfortable interacting with strangers, learn what style comes naturally to you, and work on getting to a place in your business that feels right for you.
Time Management + Workflow – On a more practical note, time management and workflow incorporation is a non-negotiable for me. In busy season, sessions and weddings naturally pile up, so it’s important to have a system in place beforehand! Having a steady and consistent workflow makes sure nothing slips through the cracks, manages a good work-life balance, and truly keeps me sane. My advice: invest in a CRM, plan out your week in advance, and stick to your schedule!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I’m definitely looking to engage with more wedding planners this year, but I always love collaborating with any industry professionals! I’m so passionate about creative imagery and am drawn to unique, out-of-the-box visions—especially creating something that’s that perfect hybrid of trendy and timeless. I’m especially excited about the possibility of teaming up on a styled shoot or two, partnering with other vendors for editorial shoots, and expanding my network for weddings. I’m always on the lookout for second shooters as well, so if you’re interested in working together, feel free to reach out! Whether through my website or a DM on Instagram, I’d love to connect and brainstorm ways we can collaborate.
Contact Info:
- Website: kierrafiske.com
- Instagram: @kierrafiskephoto
- Other: Tiktok: @kierrafiskephoto Pinterest: kierrafiskephoto Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Kierra Fiske Photo
