Today we’d like to introduce you to Spencer Carey.
Spencer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always had a passion for creating. I enjoyed painting and drawing when I was younger until I found the darkroom in high school. My first print in the darkroom was magical. I plunged the photo paper into the darkroom chemicals, and they came alive, forging a black-and-white image in seconds. It got me hooked.
I started my photo journey on the yearbook staff, where I earned several awards for my photos. I was the photo editor for my college newspaper, the Campus Ledger.
Ever since my time on yearbook and newspaper, I’ve continued to practice and learn with my camera and equipment to get me to where I am as a full-time photographer.
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 been a smooth road as a full-time photographer, but I didn’t expect it to be easy. I love challenges.
Connecting with the KC photo community was a significant challenge. As a self-employed photographer, I realized how important it is to interact with others in the field. While learning new skills online is helpful, it can’t replace the human connection we all need. Discovering groups like KC Rising and Cameras and Coffees KC on Instagram opened doors for me. Now, I have a place to meet local photographers, share ideas, and feel part of a creative community.
Secondly, it’s about putting yourself out there. No one will notice you if you don’t network with others, go to photo meetups, or business networking. reach out to business, connections that you meet a meetup ir
Finding the right marketing approach has been a unique journey for me. Unlike many photographers, I don’t enjoy using social media, even though it’s often recommended as the primary marketing tool. I’ve tried it, but it’s just not for me. Instead, I thrive on making real connections through meetups, networking events, and sponsoring a Kansas City ultimate frisbee team. These in-person experiences allow people to see my authentic self and help me build genuine relationships.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I photograph mainly people for my clients, which involves sports, events, weddings, and portraits. But I enjoy taking pictures on photo walks of the urban and natural landscape.
I’m most proud of my willingness to keep learning and growing as a photographer and creative.
What sets me apart from other photographers is my ability to anticipate when a reaction is going to happen from a person or a group of people; I search for the moments at an event. Additionally, I see the small moments within a large event. It’s the small and large details that tell the full story.
What does success mean to you?
Success for me is being able to do what I love to do, which is creating, learning, exploring new destinations, and meeting new people, while having balance between my work and social life.
Pricing:
- It’s best for clients to reach out to me for the pricing, as I shoot various genres. I like to talk or meet with my clients before a shoot or event to better understand their wants and needs to best serve them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spencercarey.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spencercareyphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spencercareyphoto/
