Kayla Vaughn shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Kayla, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
After living in Houston for nearly a decade, being back ‘home’ in Kansas has brought me so much joy for many reasons. Right now, as autumn approaches, I’m soaking in the cooler weather and the beautiful fall colors that are beginning to appear. Fall has always been my favorite season—especially for photography—and I’m relishing every moment of it!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kayla, a Kansas-based lifestyle photographer with a heart for capturing life’s sweetest and most meaningful moments. After nearly a decade in Houston, my family and I moved back ‘home’ to Kansas last year, and I now serve clients throughout the Kansas City metro and beyond.
What makes my work unique is my focus on creating images that feel authentic and personal. I want my clients to see more than a pretty picture, I want to capture a story that reflects who they are and the connections they treasure. Whether it’s documenting the joy of growing families, the tender details of newborns, or the laughter shared in everyday moments, my goal is always to preserve memories in a way that feels timeless and true!
This year, I’m excited to expand the experience I offer my clients with a small home studio option, a growing client closet, and something I feel quite strongly about—not limiting the number of images I deliver. Every session tells a story, and I want families to have the full collection of memories to cherish, not just a select few!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world is actually something I get to experience again and again through family photography – seeing life through the eyes of children. Kids approach the world with such pure wonder, joy, and authenticity, and that perspective has influenced not only the way I shoot but also how I aim to move through life myself.
While I always do some posed shots during family sessions, my favorite moments are typically the in-between ones, when children are simply being themselves. There’s so much beauty in their laughter, curiosity, and even their quiet moments.
I’ve come to appreciate this even more since becoming a mom myself. Watching my own daughter grow, learn, and explore has reminded me how special childhood really is. Capturing that same sense of innocence and discovery for other families is one of the greatest joys of my work.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back the most is the fear of failing. For me, that is often defined as disappointing others or not being the best at something. I’ve especially felt this in photography, because it’s such a personal art form where styles and preferences vary so widely. I always want my clients to leave happy, and at times I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome or the feeling that my work might not be good enough.
Over time, as I’ve continued to grow in my craft, I’ve gained confidence and learned to quiet that fear. It’s never gone away completely, but in many ways, I see it as a positive thing – it keeps me humble, motivated, and always striving to grow as a creative. I’m so grateful for the many incredible clients who have trusted me with their most meaningful moments, and knowing I’ve created something beautiful for them to keep forever is what makes pushing past that fear worthwhile!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Gosh, I sure hope so! Of course, everyone wants to present themselves in a positive light, but I truly believe in being real and vulnerable. My hope is to be someone who makes others feel safe, heard, and supported. I try to live as an open book, sharing not only the joys but also the struggles I’ve faced, with the hope that it might encourage or comfort someone else.
I’ve become especially passionate about this in the area of infertility and pregnancy loss – something so many people experience but often find difficult to talk about. I’ve chosen to share parts of my own journey to help others feel less alone in theirs.
This desire to walk alongside others is also shaping my photography business. I’m currently developing a special project to offer complimentary sessions for families who are navigating the challenges of infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. My goal is to provide not just photos, but a tangible way of honoring their story and reminding them that even in difficult seasons, their journey matters and deserves to be seen.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
I know I would always regret not putting my family first and being truly present with them. At the end of the day, success means very little if I miss the moments that matter most with the people I love.
Lately, I’ve been very intentional about keeping my priorities clear and guarding that work–life balance. One of the most beautiful parts of being a photographer is that it allows me the flexibility to structure my business in a way that supports my family both financially and relationally. While I do want my business to continue to grow and flourish, my greatest legacy will never be measured in sessions booked or images delivered – it will be in how well I love and invest in my family and those around me. That’s what will always matter most to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kaylavaughnphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylavaughnphotography18/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaylaVaughnPhotography18
- Other: https://kaylavaughnphotography.pixieset.com/booking/
Image Credits
Kayla Vaughn Photography
