Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Lanteigne.
Kara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Photography for me started as most people find it. I had my son and I wanted to take as many photos of him as possible. So I threw myself into learning photography. I had some previous knowledge from my dad teaching me how to use his old Minolta but other than that I was very green. I got a DSLR and a kit lens and went to work, everyday. I told myself I would not buy more gear or upgrade until I completely understood this camera and lens and its range. I think this was an important lesson for me because so many of the newer cameras do everything for you, you don’t have to think. Forcing myself to learn on an older camera and kit lens really made me understand the camera and photography. As my son grew we started going on more and more photography adventures together, he was my little muse and it taught me so much. I will always cherish that time with him. I slowly started doing family sessions with my friend’s and their family’s. I fell in love with it even more. In May of 2021 we welcomed twin girls into our family. More little muses for me to photograph. In October of 2021 I officially started my photography business. At first it was family photography but I knew I wanted to continue to grow. To push myself beyond what was comfortable. Weddings were not something I had originally wanted to do until I met my mentor. Once I shot my first wedding with him I knew it was what I wanted to do. I loved it so much immediately. It’s challenging and beautiful, and every wedding is different. I love traveling to new places to photograph people on the happiest day of their lives.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think the transition from stay at home mom to traveling and growing a small business can be intimating at times. I have a great support system with my husband and my parents are very supportive. Our entire family has helped in some way and I’m so blessed to have them. They help us so much and I couldn’t do what I do without that support.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a wedding photographer based in St. Augustine and traveling all over. Weddings require you to be fully present to capture the unposed moments that happen throughout the wedding. These small moments put together help create a story I love being able to tell for my couples. I’m drawn to a more laidback documentary approach. My inspiration comes mostly from old things. I love film cameras and vintage magazines.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I think it can be a little lonely so it is so important to have people around you that support you, and also friends in the industry that you can relate to. Friend’s who can answer questions or work with you when you need it. I am so fortunate to have found such amazing friends that are also in wedding photography. We travel and work together often and it’s been such a blessing to have that support. Instagram can be great for networking. Asking someone whose work you admire to coffee is a great starting place. I would say most photographers are happy to have a conversation. Asking for help or for someone’s advice is a great way to grow. Sometimes those conversations are hard but It’s so important to get your work in front of someone else’s eyes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karajeanlanteigne.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karajeanweddings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Karalanteignephotography
