Today we’d like to introduce you to Katelyn LeBlanc.
Katelyn, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m an Atlanta-based portrait and lifestyle photographer. I began my journey with photography in college. I learned the basics in a 35mm film camera class, and I was in love. I graduated from the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Art Marketing with a concentration in Photography. From there, I spent two years as a photographer in the fashion industry shooting full time for a women’s clothing boutique. That experience transformed the way I shoot and how I capture my subjects. Shooting day in and day out in such a fast-paced environment taught me to think on my feet while shooting creatively and efficiently. Over the years, I had always kept up with my photography business on the side, but in March of this year I took the leap and launched Katelyn LeBlanc Photography full time. So far, it has been one of the best experiences of my life! Though not without its challenges, it has been so rewarding and exciting to be able to put all of my effort into a business that I am truly passionate about! Learning to give myself grace and embrace the risks has been a challenge, but so worth it! I am so thankful for my husband and the amazingly supportive community I have found in Atlanta who have been a constant source of encouragement along the way!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Though it has been an amazing journey, there have been some struggles and lots of learning opportunities along the way. After starting my business on the side while I was in college in Dahlonega, I moved to Atlanta and had to start over reaching an entirely new client base. Navigating a side-business in a new city wasn’t easy, but I can’t say enough about how important it is to put yourself out there and get involved in your community. Making an effort to build relationships and meet people that will support you and that you can learn from has been so life-changing for me. So, whether it is through work, church, joining a creative group like ATL Girl Gang, or even just reaching out to people on social media — getting connected to people in your community is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your business! If there is another photographer or creative that you admire, reach out to them! Chances are they would love to connect with you. Also, to people getting started in their photography or new business journey I would also say don’t underestimate the power of social media. It can be such a powerful tool for connecting with people and reaching new clients, especially if you are new to your community.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Katelyn LeBlanc Photography – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
As a portrait and lifestyle photographer, I thrive in smaller, more intimate photo sessions. In particular, I shoot a lot of couples, families, seniors, and portrait/lifestyle sessions for creatives. Getting to know people and build a friendship over the course of a photo shoot is what I love! As a natural extrovert, being in a job that allows me to connect with people in a creative environment is the perfect fit. I love capturing those natural, joy-filled moments between people. Genuinely connecting with people so that they feel comfortable and at ease during their session is my favorite part of the job. I always want people to look back at their photos and feel that they are an authentic reflection of their personality.
The thing that I am most proud of has been launching my business full-time this year. Being able to work full time for myself in a job that I love has always been a goal of mine. To be honest, I took the leap sooner than I thought I would, but so far it has been such a fantastic experience! I have worked so hard to get to this point. I am so thankful for the opportunity to pursue my passion full time. I truly believe the Lord has provided every step of the way, and I am so grateful. One thing that I feel sets me apart as a photographer is that I always make a point to connect with people and build a relationship with my clients. In a field that can seem very saturated and competitive, working hard at your craft and making a point to connect with people goes a long way! Creating an environment where people are comfortable to be themselves can make such a difference in a photo shoot!
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I feel like right now is such an exciting time in this industry because women are truly leading the way and thriving. As a photographer, I have been so encouraged by learning from other women and watching them build their businesses. Now, more than ever seems to be a time of so much opportunity for female entrepreneurs to truly thrive. Above all, I would encourage female entrepreneurs to be assertive and fully chase after their passion. Be bold and keep fighting for your dream!
Contact Info:
- Website: katelynleblancphotography.com
- Phone: 706-540-2300
- Email: katelynleblancphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/katelynleblanc
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/KatelynLeBlancPhoto
Image Credit:
Katelyn LeBlanc
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
