Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Koering.
Michele, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My days as an artist began at a young age while drawing alongside my grandfather in his home-based art studio. As he worked (he was a commercial artist), he taught me how to sketch and use color. Growing up, I was often designing and creating things (be it pottery, brochures, drawings, jewelry and more). I continued to take art classes in college, however ended graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. After graduating, I craved a creative working environment so started my career in advertising working for a few Chicago agencies. Later, in my career, I worked in brand management for a local toy manufacturer. I still felt unfulfilled, however, so returned to school part-time to obtain an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design. I dabbled in design with freelance and also a short stint running a business that made stylish business cards for stay-at-home moms.
Having children fueled my interest in photography. I suddenly had two, beautiful “muses” to document. I was encouraged with my results given the right angle and lighting. After having my children photographed by a professional photographer, I was amazed and struck by the images. After that, I quickly upgraded my camera and spent the next ten years obsessively learning and immersing myself in the art of photography. In 2016, I decided to start my business in photography after taking a mentorship class with a local photographer that I admired (Amy Tripple). Her class gave me the confidence and the little nudge I needed to book my first paying client a few months later. The rest is history (and one that I am still writing today).
I currently offer my photographic services to the western suburbs (and sometimes beyond) of Chicago. My work tends to focus on families and children but I also do some commercial, headshot and event work. As a photographer, it is my passion to capture the extraordinary and beautiful moments hidden within our everyday lives. As your photographer, my goal is to work with you to find and archive those moments so that you can see, feel, and appreciate them for a lifetime.
Has it been a smooth road?
Overall, the development of my business has been relatively smooth. I am lucky to have the gift of time to build my business as my husband is employed full-time. Some of the biggest obstacles are my own. I take my job seriously and I put a lot of pressure on myself to deliver beautiful and meaningful images to my clients – it’s my goal to catch beautiful and unique moments in my clients’ lives. To do this, I’ve got to work fast, be quick on my feet, work creatively, be ready for the unexpected and trust you have the skills and technique to deliver.
Marketing is another struggle for me. In an oversaturated marketplace there is a lot of competition. Reaching a broader audience to capture more of my target market is something I am working on. It takes more than being a good photographer to make it. It also takes more than posting your work on social media. Some business comes in naturally, but you can’t expect clients to appear without some work. I am starting to focus more on SEO and cross promotion with local businesses with similar clientele to help grow my base.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Michele K Photography – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I operate my business out of my home, and shoot mainly on-location. I have been in business for almost 3 years now. I feel one of my specialties is the ability to “see” and catch beautiful and authentic moments in my clients’ lives. My art background also gives me the ability to bring my images to life in a beautiful and artful way. Lastly, being a mom to two children, I understand kids and relate to parents. I think this allows me to connect with families while shooting, resulting in the authentic imagery I strive to capture.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Chicago – the diversity the food, the energy. There are so many cool places to explore – both in the city and greater Chicagoland. It provides endless creative opportunities for my photography.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michelekphoto.com
- Phone: 773.704.0535
- Email: michelekphotography@icloud.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelekphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelekphoto
Image Credit:
Headshot – Amy Tripple Photography)
The rest of the image are mine Michele K Photography
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