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

Hi Kennedy, is there something you believe many others might not?
“Shoot for the ‘Gram.”

I’ve seen countless discussions about how photographers need to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of social media—especially Instagram. “To stay relevant, you have to use Reels.” “Shoot vertically; the Instagram grid is changing!”

But when did we start creating for social media instead of for ourselves? What happened to the joy of shooting in our own unique style, for our own reasons? When did sharing our work because we love it turn into a race to win the algorithm?

I ask myself these questions, too. It’s tempting to tailor my work based on how I think it will perform on Instagram. I’ve wondered, “Do I need to get into videography to attract an audience?” I’ve framed shots thinking, “This will look great on the grid.”

Sharing work we’re proud of on social media isn’t a bad thing. In fact, I love seeing other photographers’ work and constantly find inspiration in it. But I don’t want to lose myself in the chase for likes, engagement, and algorithm approval. I want to get back to creating the work I love and feeling proud to share it—regardless of how it’s received.

I don’t need to shoot for the ‘Gram.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a photographer. But more than just taking photos, I capture moments that people treasure for a lifetime—and beyond. I thrive in natural light, so you’ll often find me shooting outdoors, chasing that coveted golden hour, or working in a natural light studio. I offer a variety of photography services, including headshots, bridal portraits, family sessions, newborn photography, engagement sessions/proposals, graduation photos, events, and more. I’m even starting to dabble more into architecture photography. In addition to client sessions, I also offer landscape and nature prints from my travels; I have a passion for capturing the beauty of the world around us.

As I mentioned before, my parents played a huge role in helping me start my photography business. My love for photography dates back to elementary school, when my friends and I would stage “magazine” photo shoots—running around with a Coolpix digital camera, dressed in what we thought was the height of fashion (but in reality, were just gaudy combinations of bright colors and fabrics).

I photographed everything, from family vacations to random objects around the house. When my dad got a nice camera while I was in middle school, he showed me how to use it. I remember watching him take beautiful portraits of my mom in the best-lit corner of the house or setting up the tripod outside for family photos. Growing up, he and I would go on daddy-daughter dates, and when I started getting into photography, some of those dates involved breakfast followed by a trip to the park to take pictures. He would take portraits of me, and I would try to get good ones of him while he taught me camera techniques. He also introduced me to the basics of photo editing software and gave me photography books to study. When it came time for my high school senior photos, he even took them himself—then let me edit them.

By the time I got to high school, my parents got me my very own camera for Christmas. The more I shot for fun, the more friends started asking me to take their photos. After my first family photo gig for a friend, I thought to myself, “I could do something with this.”

From that moment, I dove headfirst into learning more about cameras and photo editing. I asked my dad questions, did my own research, and watched countless YouTube tutorials. That was 13 years ago. Word of mouth (and a little social media) helped grow my client base—expanding from classmates to friends of friends, and eventually, to complete strangers on Instagram reaching out to inquire about a session. What a wild ride it has been, and I’m so grateful!

One of the challenges of my journey is that photography isn’t my full-time job. I work as a graphic designer and photographer for a company, designing marketing materials and capturing company events, projects, and employee headshots. And I absolutely love it! But since I work full-time, I have to be intentional with the time I dedicate to photography outside of work. In a way, that makes me cherish it even more. When I step away from my day job, I get to return to what started as a hobby but became a true passion. I have the privilege of working with amazing people, capturing their sweetest moments and milestones.

One of my favorite parts of photography is seeing the different stages of life unfold through my lens. Years ago, I took a friend’s college graduation photos. A few years later, I captured maternity photos for her and her husband. And this month, I get to take their family portraits—with their sweet little baby, who is already growing so fast! That is the beauty of what I do. Life moves forward, people grow and change, but these moments—frozen in time—will always be there to be remembered and cherished for a lifetime.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love this question! I’m always looking for fun things to do in the area, especially with friends. Here’s my ideal, imaginary (budget-free) week with my best friend in town:

Day 1
Since I went to UNT, a trip to Denton is a must! I love the live music, eclectic shops, and creative energy. We’d explore the Square, enjoy pancakes as big as your face at Dix Coney Island, browse Recycled Books, check out vintage shops, listen to the rooftop live music playing at LSA, and grab ice cream at Beth Marie’s.

Day 2
A gorgeous day calls for a walk around White Rock Lake, complete with a picnic, hammock, and a good book. Maybe even stop by the Dallas Arboretum! We’d end the day with a nice dinner at RH Rooftop.

Day 3
We’d spend the day at Klyde Warren Park, grabbing food truck bites and visiting the Dallas Museum of Art. At sunset, we’d take in the city views from Reunion Tower before dinner at HG Supply Co.

Day 4
A trip to The Shops at Legacy in Plano, lunch at Legacy Food Hall (maybe a trivia event!), followed by dinner at Miss Pasta. We’d cap the night off at Free Play in Richardson.

Day 5
Instead of the packed Rangers stadium, we’d opt for a Frisco RoughRiders game—chill atmosphere, easy parking, and plenty of space. With classic ballpark snacks in hand, we’d relax and enjoy the game.

Day 6
A spa day at World Springs, then an evening at Upstairs Circus in Deep Ellum—drinks, DIY crafts, and yummy pizza next door.

Day 7
If it’s a Saturday, we’d hit up the Dallas Farmers Market, then have street tacos from The Taco Stand for lunch (the best I’ve ever had!). We’d have dinner at Culpepper, which is in the newly renovated Continental Gin Building, finishing with dessert at Emporium Pies (Lord of the Pies, anyone?).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I truly believe that my creative ability is a gift from the God who created me. He is the ultimate Creator—it’s an inherent part of who He is. Any knack or talent for creativity that I have is just a small reflection of that. I’m simply grateful for the opportunity to find beauty and goodness in His creation—both in people and in nature!

I also have to thank my parents. My dad has been passionate about photography for a long time, and he started teaching me the ropes when I was in middle school. He introduced me to photography books and taught me the technical aspects of using a camera. My mom and dad gifted me my first camera for Christmas during my freshman year of high school, and I’ve been shooting ever since. Their unwavering support and encouragement from the very beginning mean the world to me, and I am so grateful!

Last, but certainly not least, my wonderful husband, Tanner. He continuously encourages me in my creative endeavors—whether I’m investing in new photography equipment or setting aside time for freelance design gigs and photo shoots, he wholeheartedly supports my passion and where it’s taking me. He uplifts my work and sees potential in me that I sometimes struggle to see in myself. I truly couldn’t do what I do without his love and support!

Website: https://www.photographybykennedy.com/

Instagram: @photo.by.kennedy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplicityphotosbykennedy

Other: Upwork Profile (Freelance Graphic Design and Photo Editing):

https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~0152640bf4a2fb953b?mp_source=share

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