Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Esslinger.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My dad was the son of immigrants who began their own business in this country, and he followed in their footsteps with his own business. He always told me that I would have my own business as well – and sure enough, I did! I’ll never forget the invigorating journey of starting my own photography business. From the endless hours of practice and growth to the first sweet family who actually paid me to take their photos to moving into the wedding industry. It has been such a fun journey!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Honestly, I never would have been here if it wasn’t for Jesus. Every step of this path has been orchestrated by Him, and it truly has been the most beautiful journey. The times that were more challenging were times that I doubted myself or my skill, but when I’ve leaned into Him, it’s been beyond my wildest dreams.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My mission is to create timeless, authentic imagery for my couples to cherish for generations to come. My passion is to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera so that they look and feel their best in every image they receive. Weddings are (outside of God and my family) the place that I feel the most alive – capturing moments to be remembered for a lifetime.
A couple of important things set my business apart. One of my favorite things to hear from my couples when they finish a session is “Wow, I didn’t know that could be so much fun!” (And I’ve heard it so many times from even the groom!). The other is attention to detail – I don’t miss details or moments because my full focus and attention is on capturing every moment that happens.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I believe our industry is moving toward authenticity. Capturing the beauty of a wedding goes so far beyond the details and the planning of the day. When capturing a wedding, you’re capturing a passionate love, a choice of forever, and the beginning of the most beautiful marriage. There is always a place for beautiful, perfectly styled images of details (especially because so much time and money goes into planning those!). But I believe that our industry is also moving toward capturing the authenticity of a love that has been tried over time and chooses forever together.
Contact Info:
- Website: kayladenaephotography.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/kayladenae
