Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Holtshouser.
Hi Katie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in New Hampshire, went to Saint Anselm College and studied politics, and worked at a law firm as a real estate paralegal for 2 years after college. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been in love with photography and videography- I was always the friend with the camera in my hand! Since I was working an office job that I didn’t like very much, I expressed this creativity that I had through travel videos and making videos with my friends. I started recruiting my friends to model for me to practice taking photos and realized that I had a real eye for photography. Once the pandemic started, I became super unhappy at my job and realized that life was short! I ended up leaving my job and going full force into my photography/videography business. As I first started out, I had part-time jobs to supplement income (coffee shops, nannying, social media jobs, etc.) but all along the goal was to become a full-time wedding photographer and videographer. As I’ve lived in New Hampshire my whole life (a small and cold town!) I knew it was time for a change or I’d regret it when I got older. After growing my business in NH, forming relationships with long-standing clients and vendors, and feeling like I was finally where I wanted to be, I decided to move to San Diego. This decision was scary because not only would I be moving across the country, but I’d be moving my entire business. But even though I have goals that I am always working towards, I am where I am now because I have always trusted myself and known that you don’t have to follow the typical career path.
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?
Definitely not smooth! One of the biggest struggles I face is having to explain to people that my full-time career is not a hobby. People often think that photography/videography is a side job, hobby, side hustle, etc. I think this is the case with a lot of creative jobs – and I don’t know why! This is my full-time job and how I make my income- but this goes along with needing to not care what people think (including friends and family) when you are pursuing something outside of the ordinary.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a photographer and videographer – I specialize in weddings, elopements, couples, and branding work with small businesses. My work can be described as candid, authentic, and documentary style. I love capturing moments that feel timeless and almost feel like a movie! I always tell my couples that my goal is for them to look back on their day and have photos/video from moments they didn’t even realize happened throughout their day.
I pride myself on making my couples feel comfortable and eased on their wedding day (or during their sessions). I never want anyone to feel like their wedding is a day a production for social media – but more a capture of them as a couple surrounded by their family and friends. Most of the couples I work with are not comfortable in front of the camera (who is really?!?) so I really pride myself on making the experience fun and relaxed so that they can feel their best and feel natural.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Not photography or business-related- but my favorite podcasts are: “UnF*ck Your Brain by Kara Loewentheil” which really dives into confidence and mindset. This has helped me a ton with imposter syndrome and any mental roadblocks! And “Trying Not to Care” with Ashley Corbo, I love this for an easy listen about life in your twenties 🙂
I am a big reader! It is my favorite thing to do when I am not editing/ working! My favorite book from 2022 was “The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah and Everything I know about Love by Dolly Alderton (this one is great about being in your twenties as well)
Pricing:
- Wedding Photography – starting $3850
- Photography Sessions- starting $500
- Wedding Videography- starting $3400
- Branding photo/video- starting $600
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.khfilm-photography.com
- Instagram: @khfilm_
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYPWbVyg1uf9VsZWrM6v7Fw
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ktholts
Image Credits
Rachel Ciruolo
