We recently had the chance to connect with Kim Kuehn and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kim, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Honestly, there’s no such thing as a normal day for me — and that’s what I love about it! I juggle being a full-time ER nurse, part-time CCT nurse, full-time mama, and full-time small business owner. My days are a blend of chaos and creativity. You’ll usually find me with a running notebook full of lists and ideas, bouncing between shifts at the hospital, snuggles and playtime with my daughter, and late-night editing sessions once she’s asleep. It’s a lot to balance, but every piece of it feeds a different part of who I am — the caregiver, the creative, and the dreamer behind the camera.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Kim! I’m the face behind Kim Kuehn Photography — formerly known as Rebel and Lace. I first launched Rebel and Lace with the dream of building a boudoir empire centered on empowering women to see their beauty and strength. Over time, life (and motherhood) gently redirected my path toward something even more meaningful — capturing the journey of women as they become mothers, and the beauty of growing families.
Through my lens, I aim to tell honest, emotive stories — the kind that freeze the in-between moments, the quiet connections, and the raw, real love that defines each family’s story.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad, hands down. He spent so much of his life working hard to give my brother and me every opportunity for a better future, and my work ethic comes directly from him. He passed away shortly before I had my daughter, and photography became something deeply soothing for me after that — a way to process, to create, and to honor the lessons he taught me. Working on a project feeds my creative side and keeps me grounded in the values he instilled: dedication, perseverance, and heart.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
This past year has definitely tested me. Balancing motherhood, growing work demands, and still trying to push my business forward has been overwhelming at times. There were moments I questioned if I could keep all the pieces together. But every time I pick up my camera or look at my daughter, I’m reminded why I started — to create, to connect, and to build something meaningful for her and for myself.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
I love this question. It’s so easy to get caught up in trends — like overly warm tones or heavy sepia filters — especially in the photography world where styles evolve so quickly. But through a lot of experimenting, editing, and re-editing, I’ve learned what truly resonates with me. My style has settled into something timeless and true-to-life, focused on authentic connection and genuine emotion. I want my photos to feel real — like you can step right back into that moment years later and still feel it.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I tap dance to every session. Truly. It never gets old — the excitement, the honor, the trust people place in me to capture their most meaningful moments. Whether it’s a glowing mama-to-be, a brand-new baby, or a family simply being themselves, I’m always in awe that I get to turn these fleeting moments into lasting memories. It’s such a privilege, and that joy never fades.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimkuehnphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimkuehnphotography/
Image Credits
Kim Kuehn Photography
