The soft golden light of the early morning filters through the windows in my kitchen, casting the warmest glow over the room. The scent of freshly brewed coffee fills the air (my hands-down favorite coffee is from Little River Roasting in Spartanburg, SC), mingling with the quiet hum of the neighborhood waking up.
Morning is my favorite time of day—when everything is still and quiet—my girls aren’t up yet, and the possibilities of the day stretch out before me. I take a moment to breathe, enjoying the tranquility before the hustle and bustle begins.
This is just one slice of my life as a wedding photographer and a woman juggling the many facets of a fulfilling, albeit busy, life. Welcome to a day in my shoes, where I balance the art of running a business and photographing couples and families with my personal passions and daily joys.
I would love to share how I’ve managed to create an imperfect blend of work and play, and maybe, you’ll find a few tips to help you design a life you love, too.
My Daily Routine: Crafting a Balance
My days are a blend of structure and spontaneity. The morning always begins with that cherished quiet time, a moment to center myself before diving into the day. After savoring my coffee and breakfast, I head to my home office to sort of gather my thoughts of the day’s to dos.
I then takes an hour or so to get my girls fed and off to school (or camp, if it’s summer). And then, some days I head to pilates. And other days, I head straight to my office chair.
Mornings are typically dedicated to editing photos, answering emails, and planning upcoming shoots. Editing is where the stories I capture truly come to life, and it’s a thoughtful process for me. There’s something incredibly satisfying about fine-tuning each image until it perfectly reflects the emotion and beauty of the moment.
I try to always take a good break for lunch and step away from my computer.
And then, afternoons often take me out of the office and into the world. Whether it’s a photoshoot in a beautiful location, a meeting with a bride-to-be, or simply running errands, I make sure to carve out time for personal interests. A midday walk around the neighborhood or a quick coffee date with a friend keeps me energized and grounded.
Exploring New Places Through Photography
One of the greatest joys of being a photographer is the opportunity to explore new places. My camera has taken me to so many gorgeous locations, from the serene landscapes of the Highlands to the charming streets of Charleston. Each new place offers a fresh perspective and a chance to find new photo spots.
Obviously I’m not scouting locations every week, but when the opportunity arrives, I jump on it.
And, of course…every photoshoot is an adventure. I get to see the world through my clients’ eyes and capture their love stories in the most beautiful settings. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about creating memories and experiencing life in its many forms. I’ve met incredible people, heard their stories, and shared in their most intimate moments. These experiences truly bless my life and fuel my passion for what I do.
Finding Balance: Tips for a Harmonious Life
Balancing a thriving photography business with personal life isn’t always easy, but it’s essential for not losing my mind. Here are some tips I’ve found helpful in maintaining that harmony:
- Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work hours and personal time. When you’re working, be fully present, and when you’re off, truly disconnect. This separation helps prevent burnout and makes sure you have time to recharge.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s a workout, a hobby, or simply a quiet moment to yourself, self-care is non-negotiable.
- Embrace Flexibility: While structure is important, flexibility allows you to adapt to the unexpected. Life is unpredictable, and being able to go with the flow can lead to wonderful surprises and opportunities.
- Delegate When Possible: You don’t have to do everything yourself. Whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant for administrative tasks or asking for help with chores at home, delegating frees up time for what truly matters.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement keeps you motivated and reminds you of the progress you’re making.
Blending Work and Play
Photography isn’t just my profession; it’s a way of life. And it’s honestly one of my greatest passions. Some of my favorite memories involve blending my work with personal experiences. Like the time I scheduled a photoshoot in Beaufort, SC, and decided to stay the weekend. Exploring the quaint streets, enjoying local restaurants, and capturing the beauty of the town made it feel like a mini-vacation.
Or the time I combined a family visit to the coast with a beach photoshoot. It was a perfect blend of spending quality time with the ones I love the most and doing what I love most—capturing moments that tell a story. These experiences remind me that life is best enjoyed when we integrate our passions with our daily routines.
The Full Wedding Weekend Experience
Now, I do want to take a quick pause and talk about something: the importance of documenting the full wedding weekend. And I’m sure you’re wondering: Kendra, what the heck does this have to do with designing a life you love?
Well..weddings are more than just a single day; they’re a series of moments that, together, tell this incredible story. From your welcome dinner to your farewell brunch, each event is a significant part of your wedding story.
And if you’re designing a wedding you love, I think it’s important to capture all of it.
I’ve found that capturing the entire weekend allows me to tell a more complete and nuanced love story. It’s in the laughter during the rehearsal dinner, the quiet anticipation on the morning of the wedding, and the happy farewells at the post-wedding brunch that capture the true essence of the celebration.
And by documenting the full wedding weekend, I can create a cohesive narrative that reflects your journey and the love you share with their family and friends. It’s about preserving the little moments that you’ve worked so hard to design that make the weekend unique and special.
Designing a Life You Love
Balancing a professional photography career with my personal life and passions has been a rewarding journey. And while it’s not always easy, I find so much joy in both work and play and creating a life that feels genuinely fulfilling.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue sharing my experiences, exploring new places, and capturing the love stories of amazing couples. And I’m thrilled to document full wedding weekends, ensuring that every moment of your celebration is preserved in timeless, beautiful images.
Here’s to a life well-lived and beautifully captured!
