Life & work with Kaley Ide of Kaley and Film

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaley Ide

Hi Kaley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My photography journey began in middle school, where I fell in love with shooting film. The limited shots on a roll forced me to be present and trust my instincts. Though I always had a digital camera by my side throughout middle and high school, I truly embraced film photography in college as a creative outlet alongside my design studies.

After starting a full-time design job and getting married, I used my camera less often. It wasn’t until years into motherhood that I picked up my film camera again, capturing the fleeting, imperfect moments of my children’s childhood. This rekindled my love for experimenting with perspectives, light, and documenting everyday moments.

I always dreamed of being a photographer but didn’t have the guts to pursue it until recently. After enrolling in a lighting course, I began taking family and newborn photos for friends, quickly gaining more interest from others. Through this, I discovered a talent for connecting with kids and helping families enjoy the photo-taking process. This experience reshaped my approach and revealed strengths I hadn’t recognized in myself as it relates to photography before.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a photography business with three kids under five has been no easy task, but it’s been incredibly fulfilling. I couldn’t have done it without my amazing parents, who step in once a week to help with the kids. My husband’s support means the world, especially when he tells me how proud he is of me following my passion.

Finding the balance between my art and being present with my family is an ongoing adventure. My kids are my top priority, and being home with them is its own dream come true. I’m sure I’ll keep tweaking things to keep everything in harmony.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a family photographer specializing in 35mm and medium format film, capturing emotive, playful, and honest images that evoke nostalgia.

I take a child-first approach to sessions. I believe the experience of taking family photos is just as important as the final images. My sessions are lighthearted and fun because I create an environment where kids can be themselves. No forced smiles or “say cheese”—I let kids show me their true selves and capture the natural moments. I realize this isn’t typically how family photography is approached, and I think it’s part of what sets me apart.

As a mom of three young kids, I totally get the chaos, the meltdowns, and the need for patience. I roll with whatever comes and make sure families feel at ease, knowing that I expect the unexpected and can bring the silly to keep things on track.

I’m most proud of myself for following my gut and my joy. There aren’t many family photographers shooting solely on film, and I’ve spent a lot of time doubting whether I could do it. Ultimately, it felt like a desire I couldn’t ignore anymore. I’m proud of myself for saying yes!

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Motherhood has taken me through some pretty tough times. One of my kids was colicky for months, another had an undiagnosed tongue tie that caused feeding issues, discomfort, and stress for our whole family. Twice, the peaceful newborn phase I dreamed of was anything but, and those early struggles have left a lasting impact on all of us.

These challenges have shaped me in painful yet meaningful ways, giving me deep empathy for parents who feel overwhelmed. I get it—I avoided family photos for five years, thinking we were just too much to handle. Now, I realize how important it is to document our messy, beautiful lives. Pain and joy are so intertwined, and seeing the good amidst the challenges is healing.

Every child is unique and deserving of being celebrated, no matter their temperament. I go the extra mile for families who are struggling to see the beauty in their own story because I know what it’s like to struggle with that myself. I like to be honest about this part of my story, because vulnerability is where real connections happen!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kaleyandfilm.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/kaleyandfilm
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaleyandfilm