Today we’d like to introduce you to McKenzie Costello.
Hi McKenzie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a stay at home mom of 2 amazing boys and recently married my best friend in June and couldn’t be happier. Opal Reality images has been published in 15 separate magazine issues!
Aside from work, I enjoy spending time with my family & friends, kayaking and geocaching.
I have always loved photography! From a young age, I remember looking at “Zoo books” and imagining having my photo on there or even just being one of the photographers that gets to experience once in a lifetime opportunity. When COVID hit, we were in a lockdown for an extended amount of time. I purchased my first camera to photograph my oldest son. He’s a huge reason why I decided to continue browsing my knowledge of photography. With him having Autism, school or family photos were always difficult. I started taking photos of him and animals, then moved to landscapes and flowers.
Now, I’m starting my own business and growing my clientele! I’m very excited to see what my future holds with so much love and support behind me!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of my biggest struggles would be learning all of the settings of my camera and learning about different ways to edit with presets.
It just took some playing around with settings, LOTS AND LOTS of starting over and asking questions.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
at Opal Reality Images, I pride myself on beautiful photography at an affordable price! I provide payment plans as well. Growing up, my family maybe had family photos done twice so I’d like to make them more accessible for everyone.
I really enjoy photographing children- specifically Newborns. Once dipping my toes into the business, I learned not a lot of photographers don’t like to invest the time. I love the little sounds and cute faces! With children, I find it’s rare to end up with bad photos.
It brings great joy, giving back to my community. I’m currently doing a special for Veterans free of charge. I’m also working with different business in the area for Branding. Without all the support my community gives me, I wouldn’t be growing like I am. I thank everyone who’s helped along the way!
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
My favorite apps would be: Lightroom
Canva
Photoshop
I am a part of MANY social media groups to find tips and ideas.
I have also made connections to photographers in my area who have helped along the way!
Pricing:
- Family photos $150
- Senior photos $120 unlimited everything
- The First Year (newborn, 6m, 1yr) $300
- Sports $40
- Floral $70
Contact Info:
- Website: Opalrealityimages.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: Opalreality22
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092327599698&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Laeilyn turner
Chloee Rodriguez
Clifford
Peyton
Aubrey
