Rising Stars: Meet Kirby Mekler

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirby Mekler.

Hi Kirby, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story starts as so many do – in an unfulfilling tech job. I’d made the decision to follow a career path I didn’t particularly like for the sake of stability, but before long I found myself craving a creative outlet. I’ve always liked cooking, so I started a food blog. But as it turned out, photographing food was difficult. I do love a challenge, though, so I started learning food photography and fell in love with it along the way. Fast forward about a year and we’re in the midst of a raging global pandemic. Though it was generally a terrible time, focusing my energy on growing as a photographer helped clear my head and pass the time while stuck at home, and I welcomed the opportunity to work towards a career I was passionate about. Now, I get to help brands tell their stories with mouth-watering and eye-catching photos and videos. I’ve transformed what started as a creative outlet into a job, and I couldn’t be happier about it!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say that my road has been bumpy, per se. That said, there is absolutely a steep learning curve when starting any business, and photography is no exception. One struggle I encountered was pricing appropriately. It’s really hard to know what to charge when you’re first starting out. A lot of photographers undercharge. Simply because they don’t know what they should (or could) be charging. This might be fine for them on a personal level, but it’s harmful for the industry as a whole and not sustainable long term. I don’t say that to shame anyone with low rates – we’ve all been there and we’re also all constantly learning! But I do think it’s important to charge your worth and educate potential clients and fellow photographers on things like licensing. Or to ask questions and talk to your peers if you’re feeling insecure about your pricing practices.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a commercial food and product photographer. I love experimenting with different styles, ideas and lighting techniques, but I’m best known for bold, splashy images that don’t shy away from color. One thing that I’m pretty proud of is that I’m self-taught. I’m still always learning and evolving, but it’s wild to see how far dedication and passion can get you without a formal education in your art form.

Though I’m usually behind the lens, I also style food and beverages for other photographers and for video projects on occasion, which is always a fun time.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
If you’re a brand or someone looking for food, drink or product photos, drop me an email! I’d love to get to know you and help you tell your story.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kirbymekler.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirbymeklerphotography/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirby-mekler-910b9224/