Sharing a recent interview I did with Voyage Michigan Magazine- an online publication sharing Michigan’s most inspiring stories and Michigan’s hidden gems; local businesses and creatives.
Life & Work with Kellie Overholt of the Metro Detroit area
Today we’d like to introduce you to Kellie Overholt.
Hi Kellie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a family + newborn photographer in the Metro Detroit area, specializing in authentic + real documentation of connection and love for my clients. My photography journey started when I was very young. I remember going through disposable cameras daily. And then I took a film photography class in high school, and just never stopped taking photos from there. After high school, I immediately went into the family real estate business, and sort of abandoned all of my creative outlets. In 2013, I had the opportunity to start over and be whatever I wanted to be, and at that moment I knew I would never work a desk job again. Kellie Overholt Photography was born, and I’ve never felt more fulfilled artistically than I do now- truly livin’ the dream!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There’s definitely been some little bumps in the road, but it’s all a part of life as a small business owner. One of the more challenging aspects of my business was when I became a mother- the absolute best thing to ever happen to me, but learning how to integrate motherhood into this one woman show has been tricky. I’m so extremely passionate about the work that I do, but my highest priority in life is being their mom, so the balance is often tipped one way or another. It’s something I am constantly evaluating and adjusting to ensure a healthy, happy little business!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in documenting families as they are- their unique story, with no pressure to be anything they’re not. The core of my work is to allow them to be themselves, and have fun doing it. We play games, laugh, snuggle and just have the best time together. By creating and encouraging this type of environment, my clients walk away with honest and joyful documentation of this brief time in their life- and that is what I wish for every family; to have each stage of parenthood and childhood, preserved forever. I think what sets me apart from others, is the relationships and trust that I build with my clients. I truly care to get to know them and hear their stories, on a friend level. And beyond that, learning about them allows me to photograph their love for each other in a simple and honest way.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the diverse landscape- we have it all. Beautiful parks, farms and country roads; and vibrant, lively downtown areas. I’m never bored with the different scenery here!
