Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Giles
Hi Kristen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey began with a deep love for people and storytelling, which ultimately led me to photography. In my early 30s, I initially pursued a career in nursing because of my desire to care for others. I was married young and had two daughters, and as they started school, I felt inspired to return to school myself. However, I soon realized that nursing school and my personal challenges with anxiety didn’t align well. So, I decided to follow a different passion—art and photography.
I enrolled at the Art Institute in San Diego, where I discovered my ability to create art while connecting deeply with others. People fascinate me, and I could listen to their stories for hours. This fascination is what fueled my journey into photography.
In 2016, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Photography and began photographing families, eventually expanding to weddings and elopements. However, it wasn’t until I photographed my first boudoir session for a bride-to-be that I knew I had found my true calling. In 2022, I made the decision to focus solely on boudoir photography, creating intimate and empowering sessions for women.
When I’m not behind the camera, I’m experimenting with new recipes, enjoying a glass of cabernet, or spending time with my family on our next big adventure. Photography allows me to capture moments of simplicity, sincerity, and warmth, and it’s an honor to be part of my clients’ journeys.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but the challenges along the way have helped me grow both personally and professionally. One of the first struggles I faced was realizing that the path I initially chose—nursing—wasn’t the right fit for me. It was difficult to step away from a career that I thought aligned with my passion for helping others, but my anxiety and the demands of nursing school made it clear that it wasn’t sustainable for me. That moment of pivoting felt like a setback, but it ultimately led me to discover my true passion for photography.
Building a photography business from the ground up came with its own set of challenges. In the beginning, I juggled family responsibilities, including raising two daughters, while trying to carve out time to grow my skills and build my portfolio. There were moments of doubt, especially when I was trying to get my name out there and make a living doing what I loved. Photography is a competitive field, and establishing myself took time, patience, and a lot of hustle.
A turning point came when I shifted my focus entirely to boudoir photography. It was a tough decision to let go of other types of photography, like family sessions and weddings, but I knew I had to follow what I truly loved. That shift wasn’t easy—there were financial risks and uncertainty—but it allowed me to hone my craft and connect more deeply with my clients.
Through all of these struggles, the road has been anything but smooth, but each challenge has helped shape me into a stronger, more focused artist and business owner.
As you know, we’re big fans of Kristen Giles Photography. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
My business is all about creating meaningful, empowering experiences through boudoir photography. I specialize in intimate, sincere photo sessions that help women celebrate their beauty, confidence, and personal milestones. What sets me apart is the level of care and connection I bring to each session. I’m not just a photographer clicking away; I’m there to listen to my clients, understand their stories, and create a space where they feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
What I’m most proud of is the environment I’ve built for my clients. Boudoir photography can feel vulnerable, so I focus on making every session warm, relaxed, and comfortable. It’s not just about taking photos—it’s about creating an experience where women can rediscover their confidence and feel truly empowered. I’ve heard from many clients that their session was a life-changing moment for them, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
Brand-wise, I’m all about simplicity and sincerity. My sessions are intentionally designed to be free from unnecessary frills or distractions so that the focus stays on the person in front of the camera. I want every woman to leave her session feeling more confident and beautiful than when she walked in.
For those who might be considering a session, I offer customized, thoughtful experiences that cater to each client’s unique personality and style. Whether it’s a gift to themselves or for a special occasion, I want everyone to walk away with images that not only look beautiful but also feel authentic to who they are. My goal is to offer more than just photos—it’s about creating memories and moments of empowerment that last long after the session ends.
Any big plans?
For the future, I’m actually heading back to school to become an X-ray technologist! It feels like the perfect way to combine my love for caring for people in the healthcare field with my passion for photography. In a funny way, being a radiographer is like being a photographer—only now I’ll be taking images of people from the inside out!
I’m excited about this new chapter because it allows me to merge two important parts of my life: creativity and healthcare. I’m really looking forward to applying my technical skills in a completely different but meaningful way. While I’m stepping into this new career, photography will always remain close to my heart, especially the connections I’ve made with my clients. Balancing both passions in the future is something I’m excited to explore!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kristengilesphotography.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kristengilesboudoir
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/kristengilesboudoir
