Kate Kirkman: Understanding Your Camera Boosts Creativity and Confidence

SheClicks Women in Photography

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If you've ever struggled with navigating the complex dials and settings of your camera or felt your creativity hampered by your technical limitations, this podcast episode is a goldmine of inspiration. Angela Nicholson, Founder of SheClicks, chats with Kate Kirkman ( of Kate Hopewell-Smith Photography), a photographer who has mastered the art of seamlessly fusing technical know-how with artistic flair.
Kate’s journey into photography is as intriguing as her pictures. Starting her career in the media industry, she moved into photography after becoming a mother and relocating from the hustle and bustle of London. Kate initially had zero formal training in photography, yet, her dedication to understanding her camera inside and out transformed her from an amateur to a professional, and she's currently a Sony Ambassador.
One of the hurdles Kate encountered early on was the labyrinth of technical jargon and the usual confusion surrounding settings such as shutter speed, aperture and ISO. But instead of shying away from these intimidating terms, Kate delved deep. She strived to learn how each control and button on her camera could help her craft the visual narrative she was after. Gaining mastery over the camera's settings helped her unlock creative dimensions until her camera replaced her paintbrush. The 'auto' mode may be comfortable, but taking the reins of manual settings fuelled her creative fire.
Kate's first plunge into the professional arena came via wedding photography, a genre notorious for its high-stakes pressure. She describes her inaugural wedding gig as “absolutely terrifying" but underscores the value of experience. According to her, the knack for anticipating the next big moment is vital in the chaos of weddings. Today, she continues to capture weddings, but she has also branched out into boudoir photography, an exceptionally rewarding genre.
But what’s the secret sauce to her captivating shots? Kate emphasises the importance of photographers knowing their equipment like the back of their hand. It's not just about the gear; it's about being a troubleshooter, being prepared for every possible hiccup. When you're not agonising over ISO settings or the perfect aperture, you can channel all your energy into achieving stunning shots.
The episode is chock-full of wisdom, specifically around growing one's self-assurance through practical knowledge of camera mechanics. Kate's story is a compelling testament to how a deep-rooted understanding of your camera can bolster your creativity and amplify your confidence.
So, whether you're a budding photographer looking to gain a stronger grasp of your camera or a seasoned pro aiming to rediscover your creative mojo, this podcast episode with Kate Kirkman is a must-listen. Tune in, and you might find the push you need to move your photography skills from auto to extraordinary.
Connect with Kate
Kate Hopewell-Smith Photography
Muse Boudoir Photography
byLumiere
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1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Photography basics and lighting compromises (00:05:02)

3. Wedding photography and client expectations (00:10:43)

4. Experience and preparation is key (00:15:04)

5. Boudoir photography and its imapct on women's self-esteem (00:24:16)

6. Training and mentoring (00:27:55)

7. Creative balance (00:34:43)

8. Switching from a DSLR to a mirrorless camera (00:39:42)