Meet Katie Hass | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Hass and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
There are two big things that stick out to me:

Firstly, I truly feel that a a big portion of my purpose in life is to tell other people’s stories via photography. Something about being there for a moment in time that someone is going to remember forever — it’s humbling and powerful. This is something that allows me to constantly strive to serve my clients in a way that allows the wedding process and day to be even more enjoyable. I want them to walk away from their experience with me not only thrilled with the final outcome in the imagery, but also to feel loved and appreciated in a personal sense. I love connecting with my clients in this way!

Secondly, on a more personal level for me, my drive and determination. When I founded my business, I didn’t know exactly what it was going to look like, but I knew I would never give up. I was persistent in my pursuit of success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s actually so interesting — growing up I always knew I was definitely a more creative person. The arts always spoke to me and connected with me in a different way than any other subject or item, but I never imagined this is what I would be doing for my life’s work! It all sort of fell into my lap. I had graduated college and was still unsure of what I wanted my life to look like, so I picked up a camera and the rest is history, ha! No but really, this is where a few connections came into play and I really started exploring the wedding side of things. I assisted for Peyton Rainey Byford and fell in love with being there + capturing people’s biggest days.

Starting your own business is both incredibly easy and incredibly difficult. In a sense, it’s easy to just start something that you believe in and are good at, but it is so insanely hard to keep going when the newness and excitement wears off. When you start to feel the pressure of making ends meet, or you don’t know where your next inquiry is going to come, or you mess up and you start to question your entire being, which is where I’ve found your “why” has got to supersede and speak louder than any doubts. This is my biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way — you have to know your “why”.

I want people to walk away from their experience with my business to feel loved and cared for in a way that went beyond just paying for a service or the photos. The goal of my business is to capture a moment in time that can never be duplicated, but to create a memory that lasts a lifetime.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh my gosh! This is so fun. I absolutely love Oklahoma City. It’s such a fun place, and the people are welcoming and wonderful. A few of my favorite spots:

For happy hour, we’re hitting up Oso in Paseo for some margaritas and queso. The vibes are immaculate and the food is delicious.

A girls day includes a steam and sauna at Udander, followed by some massages. Then we’re hopping up to Edmond to get a Blow Out at Hair + Co! My close friend Brandie Campbell, owns the salon and it is such a beautiful place filled with talented people.

A must if it’s basketball season: a thunder game! Followed by a late dinner at The National downtown — a remodeled bank building turned into hotel. It is truly stunning and gives Grand Central Station vibes — also a wedding venue.

For delicious pasties and coffee, we’re going to Harvey Bakery. Almond croissants are my guilty pleasure. From here, we’ll head over to the Oklahoma Contemporary to view the latest art exhibits, and bonus, another beautiful wedding venue.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! One of my closest friends started out as my mentor, Peyton Byford. She’s incredibly talented in her own right, and without her selflessness and generosity, I truly don’t think my business would be where it is today! When I first started out, she was always there to give me any insight, support, or encouragement.

My husband, Josiah, is my biggest cheerleader and supporter. He is always there to lift me up when I’m feeling discouraged or stuck, and is one of the most intelligent people I know. He’s always there to help get my brain moving and shaking with new ideas.

My mom, Karen Cunningham, who showed me what hard work looks like. She rarely ever takes no for an answer and is a trailblazer in her own field.

Finally, and most importantly, my faith is super important to me. It is the cornerstone of how I choose to operate my business and I’m incredibly thankful for the gifts that God has given me!

Website: www.kgcphotography.com

Instagram: @cunninghamkatie

Facebook: @kgcphotographyokc