Rising Stars: Meet Katie VanderWal

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie VanderWal. 

Hi Katie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My grandfather was a photographer in the Air Force during the Vietnam era so I’ve been exposed to cameras and the art of photography since I was a little girl. I used to bop around their yard with his Olympus camera to take photos of flowers and squirrels. I picked up my first camera professionally, thanks to my husband, who purchased the Canon for me for Christmas of 2012. I began shooting for friends for free to get my feet wet and then in 2018, I filed for my LLC and the rest is history! I now shoot weddings, families, milestones, boudoir, and lifestyle newborn. 

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?
The road has been very bumpy, with lots of twists and turns. I’ve accelerated and I’ve braked. The worst struggle for me has been Imposter Syndrome, despite the overwhelming positive feedback I’ve received over the years about my style and professionalism. I’ve struggled with what to photograph. I tried to cut out one or two niches but I always land back at photographing what I love most: people and organic moments. 

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 consider myself “Curator of Organic Moments.” In other words, I thrive on the natural emotions and moments that just “happen.” I am known for being a lifestyle photographer with a knack for bringing out the best in people; smiles, happy tears, and the occasional snort-laugh. I am most proud of the clients I have curated. They are amazing people, all of them. I have clients who started with me as seniors in high school who are now on their third or fourth family session with me. I 100% could not do this amazing work without my clients. This would also be what sets me apart. I thrive on guiding my clients through a fun, positive and meaningful photo session. This has helped me to maintain long-term relationships with them. Connection is everything and so is superb customer service.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Definitely my knack for keenly observing and capturing organic moments exactly as they happen. This goes hand in hand with me being such a big empath. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: http://www.lovephotography-mi.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/love_photography.mi
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/lovephotography.mi/
• Other: https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/love-photography–2

Image Credits
ModBettie
A Grand Rapids Portrait Boutique