Today we’d like to introduce you to Katelyn Holm.
Katelyn, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Vivid storytelling.
It’s something I’ve been doing from youth — reading books upside down to my younger siblings while weaving tales of babble for their listening ears. Now, even though I’ve learned to read “real” words right side up, I’m still telling stories — through images, words, capturing memories.
In 2014, I graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and thousands of words written. I also like to think my degree taught me how to listen, and it probably contributed to my desire to be behind the camera rather than in front. In fact, my photography skills were originally tailored to newspapers and have grown into a passion for purposeful portraiture. Now, I own, operate, and lead shoot for Sonder Photo. My work has taken me to new places, introduced me to new people, and inspired me to have new experiences. There’s not a better job on the planet.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
The art of it all drives me, but the adventure of each shoot sustains me.
I’m a firm believer that each and every person deserves to have their story told. Sonder Photo was born from that passion, rooted in curiosity and understanding that every client who books a wedding or portrait session is looking for an experience to generate future nostalgia inspired by the images I take. Every time I click the shutter on my camera, I freeze moments, tiny time capsules of fleeting happiness to be opened over and over again with each view. And I understand the gravity of this responsibility.
Over the years, I’ve developed a romantic and whimsical editing style, with pink tones that compliment all skin types. Other photographers might edit more “moody” or “bright and airy.” This style choice gives me my own voice in a sometimes oversaturated industry. But beyond editing, I want my storytelling to be cemented in conversation — how my clients met, how he proposed, and what they’re most looking forward to about their wedding day. I would rather splash around in the water in formalwear to get “the photo” than ask you to smile stiffly on the grass. I would rather chase the golden hour than shoot predictably in a studio.
Just adventure and let the rest happen naturally.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
Art can be isolating, especially when you want to perfect your craft. It’s often difficult to get the ideas from your head to a page or into a photo, whatever medium you’re using. But surrounding yourself with other creatives isn’t just good for the soul, it’s good for your art. Find people that challenge you — Facebook groups, church, city events — the more people around you, the more stories to inspire you.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Check out my website sonderphoto.co or Instagram @sonderphoto.co! You can find my travel and concert photos on my personal Instagram, @katelynholm.
Contact Info:
- Website: sonderphoto.co
- Email: info@sonderphoto.co
- Instagram: sonderphoto.co
- Facebook: SonderPhotoCo/
Image Credit:
Portrait of Katelyn by: Braxton Cole Photography, All other photos: Sonder Photo Co.
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