Rising Stars: Meet Brooke Buck of Downtown Overland Park

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke Buck

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up on a farm in northwest Kansas, where my love for photography began with my mom’s camera. I’d capture everything—family events, harvests, and the small, daily moments in between. Even as a child, I found so much joy in printing those photos and gifting them, which taught me early on the power of making people feel through imagery.

Creativity has always been at the heart of everything I do, from crafting candles and painting to spearheading school projects like yearbook and fundraisers. That entrepreneurial spirit showed up early—I started sharing my work on Facebook and handing out homemade business cards (which makes me laugh now). In a small town where word travels fast, those efforts kept me busy with referrals throughout high school and college.

After moving to Kansas City for graduate school to pursue my occupational therapy degree, I continued refining my photography business—relaunching my website and social media while building my presence in a new city. Today, I’m a full-time lifestyle and brand photographer while also providing consultative pediatric OT services. It’s the blend of creativity and serving others that keeps me fulfilled and excited for what’s next!

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?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Some moments have been incredibly tough—like showing up for a session after finding out my mom’s cancer had returned or photographing a wedding the day after my husband and I experienced a miscarriage. Balancing self-care with my passion for delivering an exceptional client experience is one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced.

Thankfully, I have an incredible support system, and being open about the realities of running a small business and navigating personal struggles has helped me and (I hope others) feel less alone. I believe sharing these experiences helps foster a sense of community, which is so important in the creative world. My work and the amazing clients I get to collaborate with have been a huge source of healing and positivity for both my husband and I—a beautiful distraction for us!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a lifestyle photographer who loves working with a variety of clients, specializing in brand photography and portraiture for weddings, families, and individuals. What ties it all together is my storytelling approach—I’m drawn to the in-between, priceless moments and strive to make my clients feel confident and truly seen.

What sets me apart is the connection I create with my clients. I meet people where they are, take time to understand their individual qualities, and hype them up to ensure their personalities shine through in every photo. My background in occupational therapy also gives me a unique perspective during family sessions. My approach is very play and movement based already, and I can sense when kiddos need a little distraction or regulation break. I offer supports such as visual schedules and social stories to prepare children and make the process more predictable and lighthearted for them.
Another part of my brand is my online print shop, which I launched during COVID with landscape and travel photography. What started as a personal passion project has grown into something truly rewarding—I’m honored that my work is now featured in local stores and restaurants. The best part is connecting with the community, especially when someone recognizes a place I’ve photographed and shares their own stories and memories tied to it.

For me, photography is about so much more than delivering beautiful images—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. I want my clients to leave their sessions raving about how valued they felt and how much fun they had during our time together. The loyalty and trust of my clients, who continue to trust me to capture their brand, stories, families, and best moments, is what I’m most proud of and what fills my work with so much purpose and joy!

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Kansas City is its vibrant, diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm. I always say KC feels like a collection of small towns, each offering something unique—whether it’s shopping in Brookside, a night out in Crestwood or River Market, browsing the farmer’s market and local shops in downtown Overland Park, PV for two of my favorite restaurants, or soaking in the authentic KC vibe in Westside. The Crossroads area is a favorite for food and drink hopping, Rosedale with the local hidden gems, and Mission for that nostalgic, local charm I can’t resist.

My husband and I have established roots in downtown OP, where we’ve built strong connections with local businesses that have turned into cherished friendships. I truly believe KC is one of the best cities for creatives, thanks to its incredible support for local artists and handmade goods.

As for what I like least… it’s definitely the distance from our families and the family farms!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.brookebuckphotography.com
• Instagram: @brookebuckphoto
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063680582765