We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Nichols and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kayla, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I was 4 years old when my Honey bought me my first vintage 1970s polaroid camera from our neighbor who was having a garage sale. I remember how satisfying it was to hear the ‘tick’, and to see the sudden simultaneous flash of light. From an early age, I was captivated by how cameras worked. Throughout the years, as I grew the cameras grew with me, and you bet your bottom dollar any chance I had to get my hands on one I was going to.
It wasn’t until about 3 years ago, I decided to start taking my photography seriously. After being a dancer for 12 years, I lost my creative outlet when I began working my full time career as an RDA. I was longing and searching for something to fill the void and fulfill me, but I wasn’t quite sure what could replace the creative freedom dance had once given me. Then, I got my hands on my first real professional camera. My sister-in-law proceeded to ask if I would take her maternity photos, and we had the best time. I quickly began realizing how excited I was to pose both her and my brother-in-law, and that the same creative freedom I felt when I was dancing I began feeling with every click of the button on my Canon EOS M200. When it came time to edit, it was like hitting a triple pirouette for the first time and landing it perfectly. I knew I had just found my calling.
Honey Haus + Co. Photography — I knew I didn’t want to just go the simple route, and brand myself with my first and last name followed by photography, but more so I wanted something that felt authentic and intentional to myself that was welcoming to everyone.
The name Honey Haus was created to commemorate the two greatest earthside loves I’ve ever known in my life. The first being my grandmother, whom since the first time I could mutter words I was calling, ‘Honey’ — words cannot begin to explain what she meant to me. Secondly, ‘Haus’, the german word for house is an ode to my husband who has helped build me into the woman I am today, and encouraged me to pursue what makes my heart feel content.
‘& Co’ because the more the merrier! Here at Honey Haus + Co. Photography we are fully inclusive, and value making everyone feel welcomed, loved, and seen.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Honey Haus + Co. Photography is rooted in an intentional, detail oriented foundation. As a photographer I understand that having professional photos taken can be an investment at times. However, I aim to not focus so much on the monetary nature of photography, but the emotional investment + creative freedom it provides me. I try my best to keep my photography affordable while also allowing space to invest in my clients, and celebrate the reason we are there taking photos in the first place!
In the early stages of Honey Haus, I took my time in specially curating + designing packages for my clients to choose from. Each package was carefully constructed to meet each individuals needs, there is even a customizable package + A la carte menu for those looking for a more personalized experience. Each name of every package was even tediously well thought out, and there is a short excerpt for what each means because to me the tiniest details have the greatest significance. My greatest intention for Honey Haus + Co. Photography is to create memorable sessions that make capturing life’s greatest and magical moments more of a treat, and less of a chore.
I am particularly proud of my steadfast pursuit of growth, fearlessly confronting challenges head-on, and consistently venturing beyond my comfort zone. I am genuinely most excited to watch Honey Haus + Co. Photography flourish + grow — eagerly anticipating the boundless opportunities the future holds in store.
I think the most significant part of my journey as not only an individual, but as a photographer has been therapy. Prioritizing my mental well-being is integral to maintaining professionalism. Regular self-check-ins are essential, especially in an industry where pleasing others is paramount. It’s crucial to remember the initial passion that led me into photography—a form of artistry that captures precious moments. Imposter syndrome weighed heavily on me, and at times, it still does. I’d often compare my work to others, doubting its quality and feeling like a fraud. It’s a struggle to shake off the notion that I’m merely just a gal who picked up a camera and called herself a photographer. But what pulled me through was learning to trust myself. I began to cling tightly to the smiles I was putting on others faces when I was encapsulating memories into photographs for them. That then became my anchor, reminding me of the true impact of my art. One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned is the necessity of refraining from confining myself to labels or predetermined roles, I don’t ever want to say I’m just a ‘fill in the blank’ photographer. I am committed to nurturing an environment of flexibility and growth, allowing space for creativity and transformation to flourish as needed.
At Honey Haus + Co. Photography, it’s more than just a photoshoot—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. I go beyond simply snapping photographs; I curate an atmosphere filled with music, offer expert pose guidance, and sprinkle in my signature witty humor to ensure my clients feel at ease, confident, and thoroughly content throughout the session. And as your photographer, I’m not just behind the lens—I’m your biggest cheerleader, dedicated to capturing the highest quality photos while hyping you up every step of the way.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite local places in Fort Worth:
The Best Coffee in FW — Summer Moon Coffee ( My current favorite; an iced mocha moon)
A Hidden Gem Brunch/Lunch Spot — Roy Pope Grocery
A Place to Visit/Fun Activity — The Hat Bar located inside Flea Style in the FW Stockyards
The Best Place to Shop in FW — The Market at Ridglea (60+ boutiques under one roof, yes please!)
A Place to Relax + Unwind — The Woodhouse Spa in WestBend
Let’s Get Drinks — Winslow’s Wine Cafe
Last stop, Dinner — Wicked Butcher
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To my dear husband, my beautiful family family, my incredible boss, my best gals, and all the precious women in my life:
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for each of you. To my husband, thank you for your unwavering love and support, for being my rock through every twist and turn of life’s journey. To my beautiful family, your constant presence fills my heart with warmth and joy, reminding me of the true meaning of love and belonging.
Dr. Laura Loftin, you are not just a boss but a mentor and friend, guiding me with wisdom and encouragement. Your leadership at Laura Loftin Dentistry inspires me to reach new heights professionally and personally.
To my best gals, you are my confidantes, my partners in laughter, and my pillars of strength. Together, we navigate life’s ups and downs, sharing our dreams, fears, and triumphs. Your friendship is a treasure beyond measure, and I am endlessly grateful for each of you.
And to all the amazing women who lift me up and inspire me to be the best version of myself, your support and encouragement fuel my confidence and drive.
And, to my beautiful clients, thank you for trusting me with capturing your special moments and allowing me to be a part of your lives. Your trust and confidence in my work mean the world to me.
Lastly — to King Jesus whom without, none of this would even be remotely possible.
Together, you all make my world brighter, and I cherish each and every one of you. Cheers to many more intentional moments of shared laughter, growth, love, and captured timeless memories.
Instagram: honeyhausandco.photography