Amanda Duque on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Amanda Duque shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
That feels like such a loaded question given all the upcoming changes in my life. This year has been one of constant transition. Both personally and for my business. I’d love to say I’m someone who embraces change with open arms, but truthfully, I tend to shy away from it. Yet, some changes are simply unavoidable.
I’m being called to move from the home I love in Michigan to start a new chapter in California. My husband recently lost his job in Ann Arbor, but soon after was offered an incredible opportunity in Los Angeles. Everything has happened so quickly, and by December, we’ll be settling into a new state, and I’ll be bringing Amanda Kay Photography to the Los Angeles area.
While I’m definitely nervous about the unknown, I also know I can do this with the love and support of my family and friends. And who knows, maybe this move will open doors for new creative opportunities and growth that I never expected. This is my chance to truly step outside my comfort zone and embrace what’s next.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! Thank you so much for inviting me to this interview. My name is Amanda Duque, and I’m the owner of Amanda Kay Photography, currently based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, soon to be moving to Los Angeles, California!

I’m a portrait photographer and artist specializing in weddings, couples, maternity, and creative portraiture. I’ve never been one to box myself into a single niche. I find it creatively limiting, and honestly, that’s just not me! When unique opportunities come my way, I rarely shy away, because growth comes from pushing yourself and trying new things.

My style is warm, vibrant, and emotional. I aim to create images that not only capture a moment, but also stand the test of time. While I love all kinds of photography, working with couples holds a special place in my heart. It’s so rewarding to play a small part in people’s love stories. I’m always looking to work with couples who want to plan a fun date night, and don’t mind having me third-wheel to capture those memories!

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always been creative, even from a young age. I was the kid who was always drawing, thinking outside the box, and avoiding coloring books because I wanted to make my own art. I dreamed of living in a house in the woods, surrounded by nature, spending my days creating.
Now as an adult, I’m so glad I stayed true to that creative side. While I always imagined myself working with more traditional art media, photography has become the perfect outlet for my creativity — it’s just a different kind of art.
I’m not yet doing photography full time; I still work a full-time administrative job during the week. But every evening after work, I come home and edit, and my weekends are dedicated to photo sessions. It’s a lot of work, but it’s how I’m keeping this dream alive, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I interpret this question more literally than metaphorically. One of the biggest changes I’ve experienced this year has been medical with me receiving diagnoses that could have affected my ability to pursue my creative passions. I was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which finally gave an explanation to the chronic, unforgiving pain I’ve dealt with for years.
While the diagnosis was devastating, it also gave me perspective. It made me realize that everything I’ve achieved, I’ve had to fight for, often harder than those who don’t live with chronic illness. My strength comes from proving to myself and others that while a chronic condition can make life more challenging, it doesn’t make success impossible.
For me, power means learning my limits, managing my symptoms, and maintaining a mindset that’s as positive as possible. It’s about working with the waves, not against them. There is a lot of importance of continuing to create, even when it takes extra effort to do so.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie I see in the photography community is the idea that other photographers are your competition.
I believe in community over competition. Running a photography or small business can feel isolating at times, and it takes confidence and kindness to open your circle and connect with others in the industry. Building friendships and professional relationships with fellow photographers benefits not only you, but the entire creative community.
Togetherness should be a priority, especially in a job that can often feel solitary. Having people in your industry to talk with, share ideas, and seek advice from is invaluable.

The mindset that another photographer might “steal” clients is such a limiting and disheartening way to view others. There are so many people out there searching for the photographer who fits their vision — and no one artist can meet everyone’s needs. When I’m fully booked, I love being able to reach out to my network and recommend another trusted photographer. Supporting one another only strengthens us all.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: How do you know when you’re out of your depth?
As a photographer, it’s important to know where your skill set currently is, how to expand it, and how to deliver consistent results that meet your clients’ expectations. Taking on new and exciting projects can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires honesty with yourself and your clients about what you can deliver.
Sometimes potential clients will see your portfolio, love your work, and ask if you can take on a project that’s a bit outside your usual scope. In those moments, it takes a leap of confidence — and plenty of research and preparation to determine whether you can take it on successfully.
When I was first approached about doing a session using off-camera flash with colored gels, I didn’t have much experience in that area. But instead of turning it down, I invested in the necessary equipment, practiced with a friend, and experimented until I felt comfortable with the settings, lighting, and results. I offered the session at a discounted rate since it was also an opportunity for me to learn and grow.
The key, especially when you’re just starting out, is to be realistic and transparent. Always let your clients know if a project is new territory for you. It’s not fair to surprise them later, honesty builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful client relationship.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amandakaydphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandakay.photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandakay.photograph/

Image Credits
Amanda Kay Duque Photography