Today we’d like to introduce you to Kailye.
Hi Kailye , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely! My photography journey began in high school when I joined yearbook club. After moving to Houston my sophomore year, photography was more than just a creative outlet, it was a way to connect with my new classmates. Being tasked with capturing school activities and sporting events put me in a unique position to interact with all of the different extracurricular clubs, staff, and teachers. Along the way I was given the nickname, “camera girl,” and I received a sense of belonging.
After high school I set my camera aside for awhile. It wasn’t until after the COVID pandemic that I picked it up again. When my out-of-state school shut down and I returned to Houston, I started brainstorming ways to create an income stream as the world began to reopen. I began marketing to neighborhood groups, reconnecting with old contacts, and promoting my work on social media. With God’s hand in it all, my small side hustle grew into a full-time business.
In the early years, I tried a few different photography niches – portraits, weddings, and sports. Events have always felt like home. I don’t consider myself an overly creative photographer; I don’t experiment much with lighting or abstract effects. Instead I focus on capturing what I see and connecting with event attendees while doing it.
Event photography kind of snuck up on me. At the time, around 2021, it felt like an untapped market, and as Instagram evolved into a more intentional, storytelling-driven platform, the need for event photographers grew. Experiencing that transition firsthand was incredible! With the rise of documentary style candid’s and people’s renewed desire to be present after the pandemic, I found my calling – preserving moments for others.
I am now finishing my fourth year specializing solely event photography, I truly can’t imagine doing anything else.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all! In fact, the confidence I have now – to walk into any event venue or conference hall, capture the day, and deliver a complete gallery was built on a lot of “oh no” moments.
I’ve faced plenty of challenges that were completely out of my control: SD cards failing, venues with black ceilings and black walls, and last minute shot lists – just to name a few. In each of these panic moments, I had to think on my feet. To be a successful event photographer (or entrepreneur in general), you have to be resourceful, adaptable, and determined. Every event I walk into is different, the guests, the atmosphere, the needs. The one thing that remains constant is my job. Capture the event from start to finish, create a gallery that allows the host to relive their day, and provide a kind professional experience while doing it.
I’ve also had struggles that were entirely within my control. One of my biggest ongoing challenges has been managing administrative tasks like emails, scheduling, and delegation. My reluctance to hire help has, at time, led to burnout, disorganization, and moments where I’ve had to apologize for being stretched too thin.
But honestly, those tough moments have shaped me. The version of me today walks out my door prepared for anything. That’s the real value of experience, early on I had to adapt and problem solve in real time. Now, my clients hire someone who’s already learned how to handle those challenges with confidence… That kind of growth is invaluable.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
KNP is primarily an event photography business. I capture everything from intimate first birthday parties to large-scale corporate conferences with 500+ attendees. My galleries are a thoughtful mix of details, candids, and portraits that tell the complete story of an event from start to finish.
What truly sets me apart begins with my booking process. From the very first inquiry, I’m clear and transparent theres no pressure, no sales tactics. If my services aren’t within someone’s budget, that’s completely okay. I value honesty and simplicity, so my confirmations, contracts, and invoices are sent in a straightforward, user-friendly way. I also take time to learn about event details like color schemes and overall tone so that I can blend in seamlessly and move through the room naturally while capturing every important moment.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the feedback I receive from clients. I never want my services to feel transactional. I become part of the event, I am laughing when you laugh, tearing up when your guests do, and anticipating moments before they happen. My goal is not only to document your event but to contribute to the experience itself. I show up fully present, engaged, and invested. It is all very personal to me.
Houston is full of incredibly talented photographers, and I feel grateful to be part of such a creative community. But for those looking for more than just someone behind the camera, for someone who will connect with your guests, understand your vision, and tell your story authentically – I’m your girl!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Without a doubt, my faith. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without being rooted in my faith and my submission to God’s plan for my business. I’ve been invited into rooms I never imagined I’d enter.. spaces with people of all different purposes, cultures, faiths, and backgrounds.
In each of those rooms, my strength, patience, and love that come from God are what allow me to show up wholeheartedly. That’s why every event feels so personal to me, because I believe I’ve been intentionally placed there. Every client, every guest, every moment I’m trusted to capture is purposeful, and I don’t take that for granted.
Outside of client interaction, my faith is also what sustains me through the hard seasons. It reminds me to keep an open hand and a grateful heart.. to take things one day at a time and focus on being a good steward of the opportunities I’ve been so blessed to be given.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kailyenayphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kailyenayeventphotography
Image Credits
Kailye Nay Photography
