Check Out Kristen Doetzkies’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Doetzkies.  

Hi Kristen, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My interest in photography started in high school. I was drawn to the combination of science and art in the darkroom. Afterward, I earned a BFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts. I graduated in 2009 and it was a very pivotal time for the photography field. The tools we were taught quickly changed as digital photography and social media took over. Accompanied by the recession, it was a challenging time. I made it my priority to get a job as a working photographer, even if it was part-time. I continued exploring different aspects of photography, including portraiture, still life, weddings, and retouching, while trying to still make time for personal work. It’s truly a profession where you’re never done learning. I’ve been working as a professional photographer for 13 years now, and I’m grateful to have kept an open mind throughout the process. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Graduating college in 2009 and searching for jobs during a recession was definitely the most challenging part. Digital photography drastically changed the playing field also. The education I received in analog techniques is still incredibly valuable. However, the types of jobs and the pay that went along with them completely changed during that time. 

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 specialize in portraiture and wedding photography. I’m most proud of the photos I take that are candid, especially when I’m photographing families. So many people see photos online that they want to replicate but capturing something unexpected is always gratifying. 

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I still have a darkroom. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kristendoetzkies.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristendoetzkies/?hl=en