Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Gehrmann.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Katie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, I moved to New York three years ago to pursue acting. Somewhere along the way, I found myself feeling what a lot of new actors feel: hungry to work and frustrated with waiting around to be cast. I was also working part-time at a staffing agency at the time, and while my coworkers were very kind and supportive, an office setting didn’t feel right for me. Wanting to find something to both pay the bills and excite me creatively, I turned to the idea of photography. After a lot of back and forth for a few months, I took the plunge and purchased my first camera.
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?
Building up a clientele wasn’t an easy feat at all. I did a LOT of unpaid, or “trade for print” jobs. I still do from time to time! Every now and again, I’d do a free shoot that didn’t pan out, but 95 percent of the time they are definitely worth it for both the connections you make and the photography lessons you learn. Set boundaries if you’re uncomfortable working with models you don’t know, and also have the confidence to try out new photography techniques with top models. Also, keep in mind that if you connect with your subjects on a personal level during the shoot and make them feel comfortable, there’s a big chance they’ll recommend you to their friends (who will be paying clients!).
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I work primarily with actors, shooting headshots, lifestyle pictures, and performance photography. Recently, I’ve been working with NYU’s theater departments as their production photographer. I also occasionally work with influencers, and as a newborn photographer at the hospital in Hoboken.
For good reason, society often focuses more on the problems rather than the opportunities that exist, because the problems need to be solved. However, we’d probably also benefit from looking for and recognizing the opportunities that women are better positioned to capitalize on. Have you discovered such opportunities?
Sure! I think there is sometimes a perception that you have to have a tough, masculine personality to make it in traditionally male occupied careers—that’s nonsense. I absolutely utilize my bubbly personality as a photographer, and I’ve received feedback many times that I’ve made my clients feel comfortable and confident as a result of it! And if you’re a lady with a strong personality, obviously photography can be a great fit for you too. Whoever you are, you’re not going to be the right fit for every single person in need of photos, but if you stay true to yourself, you’ll find your clientele.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.katiegehrmannphotography.com
- Phone: 608-345-1323
- Email: kgehrmannphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: @kgehrmannphoto
Image Credit:
Sunkyong Kim
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