Telling a story with raw and intimate moments is what captivates Katie Gracen Photography. Having recently joined forces with her videographer husband, Katie Hall from Katie Gracen Photography offers digital and film photography and video packages. Katie is based between Alabama and Florida and travels for weddings.
Tell us about your business!
I remember a love for photography always just being here with me. I was given my first DSLR for Christmas when I was 14 and since then I have never really put it down. I was the girl that would walk around her backyard and take nature photos, which then turned into constantly doing photoshoots with my friends and carried all the way to where I am now. The interest was always there but I never thought I could pursue photography as a full-time career. Struggling through the pandemic, I decided to leave college and pursuing a career as a physical therapist to try full time what I've always loved.
Gracen, my husband, was (and still is) my biggest supporter and the only person who believed in me. He helped to make my dreams come true. He supported me in every way while I worked to make my hobby a career. I knew I wanted him to be a part of my business in my brand name but, now he is also a part of my business doing video/super 8 alongside me as Katie Gracen Films. Without him I would be nothing and I will forever cherish this brand name of mine, what we have built, and our love for eternity.
Where are you based?
Alabama is home, Florida is my second home, and l have a burning passion for travel. I still cannot believe I get to see new parts of the world while doing what I love.
How would you describe your style?
Unrehearsed and soulful. A timeless, editorial, and romantic approach with a love for all the little in-between moments.
What is your most memorable career moment?
The first time my husband did a video alongside me photographing a wedding. We are an absolute dream team! Our love for each other shines through our work while capturing all our little besties in love. It is truly a fairytale working with him.
What inspires you?
Old Hollywood scenes, film, travel, people in love.
What motivates you to do what you do?
To love and to create… the things that make my job so important. I always say we were created to create and to love and be loved.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
I offer a collection of digital and film photos while my husband offers a collection of digital and super 8 films for weddings. Adding film and super 8 to our services has been by far my favorite addition. Film pushes me to new levels of creativity and captures a nostalgia that just cannot be replicated with digital imagery.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
Italy is a dream destination of mine. The colors and textures speak to my soul. I hope to one day capture its beauty on digital and 35mm.
Who is your dream client?
Down to earth couples with a love for modern romance. Two souls intertwined that trust me with their love story. My goal is to always leave my weddings feeling like my best friends just got married.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Hire a vendor team that you trust and that cares about you and your day on a deeper level than just money. Invest in vendors that invest in you right back. Most importantly, do not let anyone tell you how your day should look. You and your person surrounded by deep love is all that matters.
