We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kate Mills. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Kate, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I always work best in the morning, so when school’s in session I usually spend the first hour of the day getting the kids ready & then plop myself at my desk to answer emails or edit photos. Since it’s summer, it’s a little harder to find that work/life balance as a mom, but I still aim to be in front of the computer shortly after waking up!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a San Diego native, full-time photographer, and the creative heart behind Chasing Daylight Photography. With a background in education and a passion for storytelling, I’ve been capturing families, maternity sessions, and love stories in San Diego since 2009. I strive to blend natural light with genuine connection, creating timeless, joy-filled images that reflect the authenticity of real life. When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me chasing daylight with my husband, two kids (6 and 8), and our goldendoodle- sipping iced coffee and planning our next adventure!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
After college, my now-husband & I took off on a 3 month long backpacking trip across Europe, where we visited 17 countries together. The pressure of finding a job after graduation was put on the back burner, but when we returned, it was in full force. I tried finding something related to my degree, but it was 2008, and times were tough. During our trip, I had fallen in love with photography, so when friends & family started getting engaged & having babies, I was happy to jump at the opportunity to photograph their milestones. This picked up quickly & turned into Chasing Daylight Photography. I truly think that seeing the world through traveling gave me the desire for a flexible job that would allow for more travel, and I think those two things combined help me truly value my job!
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Be patient. Good things take time, and if you’re constantly wishing for the next amazing thing to happen, you’ll rush through the most important things- the every day life you live with family & friends!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think a lot of photographers think the most important part of the job is expensive, fancy gear. While I do think there’s a base standard of gear (I mean, we have to guarantee quality images), I think really all one needs is one versatile lens, and a decent camera. At this point I have 7 or 8 lenses I can use at any given time, but I find myself usually sticking to one or two each shoot. Gear isn’t nearly as important as connection, photography skill, and business sense!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m traveling in a new city- particularly when I step into a cafe for a coffee and a pastry. I’m not sure what it is, but I absolutely love the feeling of morning in a new city.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chasingdaylightphoto.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/chasingdaylightphoto
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/chasingdaylightphoto
