Check Out Kathi Mitchell’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathi Mitchell. 

Hi Kathi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I honestly didn’t think I would do this. My business partner and I decided to close our photography studio, a mainstay in our community. He wanted to retire, and after 30 years as a photographer, I was ready for something new. So, I decided to move on. Find a new career. Change my life. Then a client asked if I would continue on my own. I told him No, I was done, and I could refer him to someone else to do what he needed. He replied, “But I want you.” So, I began to think. 

I realized I didn’t want to give up photography, just the pressures that come from running such a large small business. I was ready to be more creative and get out from behind a desk. I wanted to be less manager and more photographer. So, I started Blue Denim Photography and Design, which I do on a much smaller, more flexible scale than at the studio. 

Blue Denim has taken off more than I ever expected it would, which has been so gratifying! To have people acknowledge and appreciate your work is very rewarding. 

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?
2020 was a hard year. My stepmother passed. There was COVID. We closed the studio. My husband died. It was a year full of changes and challenges. The house was too quiet, but sessions were a great way for me to get out and keep busy. I missed seeing my employees and clients every day, but my Blue Denim clients are fantastic. I didn’t have a studio space, but assembled a portable studio I can set up for indoor portraits. The pandemic made indoor sessions iffy, but I scoped out and discovered new outdoor locations. I learned to be more grateful for small graces along the way.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I don’t like to say I specialize in any type of photography. I’ve done it all! I am great with kids, know how to pose families the right way, have experience at professional headshots, and know good lighting for indoor and outdoor photography. Specifically, I am known for and have a reputation for, creating good professional headshots. A headshot portrait is hard to do, and I have a growing clientele who want that professional look done the right way. After all, this image is what’s selling themselves and their business! 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
That life goes on. It can be hard and full of difficult changes, but when we accept those and move on, we can grow. And heal. And enjoy life again.

Pricing:

• Headshot packages start at $200

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bluedenimphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluedenimphotos/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bluedenimphotography 

Image Credits
Kathi Mitchell
Blue Denim Photography