Hi, I'm KARA
The credentials: I studied journalism with an emphasis in photojournalism at the University of Missouri. I also minored in art history. I interned with news organizations, got my first big job as a university photographer at Indiana State where I lived in the campus community for four years, managed a retail studio after relocating for my husband's work, and worked as a multimedia developer for another institution. I love art, getting lost in nature, and manage to see the beauty in things (and people).
However, it was not until I became a mother that I truly found the value of my work. I am the journalist, historian, and artist of my family. I tell our story, both the beauty and the reality of it. I have more images of my children than I can count. I don't make these images to post on social media for the world to see, I make these images for my children. I make them so they can see their own history. I am the keeper of this time. It is flying by too quickly and I want so desperately to hold onto it. My camera allows me to hold onto these moments, and I like to do the same for my clients.
I view my work as a privilege. I am honored each time my clients invite me to document their family's history, to be the one to capture their moments. In short, I love my job.
How we are different
Experienced with children
I am a mother of a busy baby girl and a tenacious three year old. I often tell my clients that I have no shame when I work with their children. I worked in multiple retail studios before creating my own brand, and I learned that I have to join children in their world to engage them. We play, run, tickle and giggle during sessions.
High quality photo products
My sessions include an online gallery with printing rights, but my service goes beyond digital images. Displaying family portraits builds a child's sense of self worth. I offer complimentary consultations for wall art and albums.
Flexible session schedules
With children, it is their world and we are living in it. I build time into sessions to get down on the floor with them and play. I want them to be comfortable with me. I can recommend times and locations that work best for your family.
A little about me
met my husband through my camera
I met my husband when he was sent to my studio at Indiana State. I actually have a portrait I took of him the day we met and continued to photograph him in various activities while he finished his degree. The day I met my mother-in-law, she presented an entire album of images I had taken of him documenting his college career. We are nerds at heart. We share a love of Harry Potter, Moose Tracks ice cream, peanut butter M&M's, and exercise.
Art & chocolate
I enjoy getting lost in an art gallery or in nature. I actually skip through fall leaves. I am an avid baker, which necessitates a love of running.
My littles
I have two beautiful, energetic, amazing, and exhausting babies. They are my world and I love my time with them.
