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

Hi Kelsey, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in a household that valued education and hard work. Despite my passion for photography, my parents were worried about its profitability, so I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in social work and a Master’s in Health Administration. Nevertheless, the idea of starting my photography business has always been on my mind. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of spending time with loved ones and having flexibility. Combining my love for photography with the flexibility of running my own business is the perfect fit.

Since childhood, I’ve had a keen eye for photography, capturing moments that others might miss. One winter, my aunt’s family and I used to rent a cabin in northern Michigan for skiing trips. I distinctly remember taking a breathtaking picture of a tree outside the cabin as the snow fell. This experience solidified my love for photography as a hobby or a profession. Although I don’t have a copy of that picture, the memory is still vivid. Finally, last fall, I took a leap of faith and officially opened my photography business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Kelseycharmayne Photography specializes in helping families and individuals preserve their memories through beautiful heirloom artwork for their homes. Life is about experiences; they define us. Each person leaves a unique mark on the world—there will never be another you! My business and identity have been shaped by life’s highs, lows, and grit. I aim to capture your authentic story, showcasing candid and real-life moments representing you as an individual or family. Building relationships with my client and capturing their stories for future generations drives my success. Connecting with my clients for better photography sessions is about genuinely being interested in them. Treat them like a dear friend. Play some music. Connect with them on a human level by asking questions and making them comfortable. Knowing what to expect and having a planning session before the session helps everything run as smoothly as possible.

Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I must emphasize the value of photography and physical products in a digital world. My clients must share their stories and have beautiful artwork to cherish in their homes. It may sound cheesy, but it’s priceless. Preserving a piece of history in their everyday moments is what life is all about. Each client has a unique story, and as a photographer and visual storyteller, it’s my responsibility to discover what sets them apart and showcase that in the photographs I capture.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If planning a visit to Livonia, Michigan, I would first stop at Anastasia and Katie’s coffee shop for some coffee or other goods if coffee is not your thing. Afterward, I would head to the senate and get one of their omelets. I would go to Hines Park, and you can go cycling for 17 miles or take a beautiful walk. If you are interested in lunch, I recommend Luigi’s Trattoria Pizzeria, which has been family-owned and operated since 2000. Afterward, I would head to the Town Peddler Craft and Antique Mall, one of Michigan’s most extensive stores that sells antiques, vintage goods, and crafts made by local artists. Adventuring a little outside Livonia in Northville, Michigan, I would go to Maybury State Park, which has a lovely walking path and rolling terrain. I would end the day at One of my favorite spots in Livonia, Michigan, Las Palapas, a fantastic Mexican restaurant known for its delicious steak tacos and margaritas.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Daniel Dean Doletzky II is the sole owner of K&D Plumbing in Livonia, MI. Who is my amazing husband and best friend, who has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. We met in February 2019 and married in May 2022; he inspired my logo. Daniel started plumbing right out of high school and has been with K&D Plumbing since then. Last year, when his dad retired, he took over the family business. He is a Licensed Master Plumber with over 17 years of experience, specializing in residential plumbing, everything from new or backup sump pumps, faucet installs, water heaters, toilets, repipes, and much more.

Website: https://www.kelseycharmayne.com

Instagram: kelseycharmayne

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-doletzky-llbsw-mha-332473a1/

Image Credits
Kelseycharmayne photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.