Photographer Feature: Kendra Gough

We haven't had a Photographer Feature in a while and we'll be making up for in in the next couple of months. Here at Cheeky Lime, we have been so impressed with how talented our fans and customers are and we want to give as many of you a shout out as we can! 

 

Today, we're sharing the work and thoughts of Kendra Gough. She serves the Kansas City Area and has been snapping pictures for about 10 years. She's got two kids, a supportive husband and she especially loves incorporating bokeh into her images. You can check out her website or her facebook page. Thanks Kendra for your thoughtful responses and beautiful pictures! 

 

1. What initially got you interested in photography? 

I have never loved anything as much as I love photography. There is no one moment where I fell in love with photography, it is honestly just a passion I have always had. I evolved my photography from hobby to business after my second son was born and I found myself daydreaming about being a photographer every single day.
"Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway." -Earl Nightingale

2. Do you have formal training? Self taught? Mixture of both?

I am a mixture of formal training and self-teaching. I took (film) photography classes for 6 years in high school and college and then taught myself digital photography and editing techniques through reading blogs, books, watching endless YouTube videos, and lots of practice. 

 

 

3. What gear do you have in your camera bag? What equipment do you favor most? 

In my camera bag, I have a Canon 6D DSLR camera, 50mm 1.2, 85mm 1.8, 24-70mm 2.8 and a Speedlite 580EX II. Hands down my favorite accessory is my 50mm 1.2 lens! I love me some bokeh.

 

4. What are your favorite sessions/subjects to shoot?

My favorite subjects to shoot are my sweet little babes! I have 2 amazing boys, Gavin (4 years old) & Atticus (2 years old). I like family sessions a lot, but I am really madly in love with wedding photography! I love every aspect of wedding photography - from the initial booking meeting to actually shooting the big day and everything in between! I love working with my clients and I make it my personal mission to make each and every wedding unique and tailored to their wishes and dreams.

 

 

5. Describe your style in 3 words. How has your style evolved over your time as a photographer?

I would describe my style as lively, colorful & candid. I have evolved SO much as a photographer since I started my business! I look back at some of my "first favorite" pictures and I am like yikes... but I loved the picture at the time. I think it is really important to never stop moving forward. I am constantly learning and developing myself as a person and my photography as a skill. I have recently stepped into the role of mentor and teacher for shooting and editing and I find it extremely rewarding to pass on my knowledge and experiences to other people, at all different levels in their photography journey. I also think it is very important to give back to the community and I regularly donate my time and sessions to various organizations in Kansas City.


6. What’s your most memorable or funniest “on the job” moment?

My most memorable on the job moment was from an outdoor wedding I shot this past summer. The bride spent countless hours DIYing all of these gorgeous ceremony decorations and 30 minutes before her outdoor ceremony started, it began to downpour. Everything was ruined and the bride's mother was in tears. But this bride, soaking wet in her exquisite wedding gown, beautiful hair and make up ruined, could not be brought down. She was like "oh well! Let's do this!" All she cared about was marrying the love of her life. And that is when I fell in love with wedding photography.


7. Where do you draw your inspiration from?

 I draw my inspiration from my amazing family! Many of my first "clients" were friends and family who believed in me, my talents and my potential. My husband is a very talented artist who inspires me and pushes me every single day to be a better mom, wife, photographer, artist and human being. 

8. Best editing tip?

The best editing tip I have is to listen to your own eye. You can love and appreciate other photographer's work without imitating their style. Listen to your soul and go with what feels right to you. Never stop learning or striving to be better.

9. How has photography helped shape how you see the world?

When I got my first camera, I would go out every evening and chase the sunset until it was pitch black out. There is something truly amazing and raw about capturing moments in time that will never happen again. All of those memories and raw emotions that awaken at the sight of a picture. It could of been captured 2 days ago or 50 years ago, but immediately you are taken back to that special time in your life, whatever that may be. I love that. I think it's a very important aspect of life.

 

10. Give us your best photography related tip!

My best photography related tip is to never give up on your dreams. Set goals for yourself and do whatever it takes to reach them. Stay organized and always be true to who you are as an artist.

 

 

 Thanks, Kendra! It was fun getting to know you a little more and to see your great work! If you're in the Kansas City Area, and are looking for a photographer, Kendra is your gal!

1 comment

  • Go Kendra!!!

    Jamie K!

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