Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristi Malone.
Kristi, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always had a passion for the creative arts. I grew up in theater and studying classical dance all throughout college. Once I became a mother, I was looking for a way to still explore the creative outlets I loved so much and my husband bought me my first camera. I loved it! I took a class offered by a friend who is a photographer, and there I learned about my camera, editing, etc. I’ve built my business slowly by working late nights after my kiddos are asleep and on the weekends. I started by offering free sessions to build my portfolio. I also took so many photos of my favorite models, my own three children! I had learned and grown a lot since when I first started. I’ve had the opportunity now to photograph many families, some in multiple stages of life from maternity, then to newborn, and then milestone birthdays. I’ve also had the chance to photograph celebrations like parties and weddings.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Any small business is going to have some bumps along the road and mine is no different. I would say that with photography, the biggest struggle is the ebb and flow of the calendar. You have seasons of extreme busyness, like the fall when everyone is getting ready for that Christmas card. Then you have months like February where you’re just not booking as many sessions and you have to get creative or just use that time for education and growth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a family photographer. I specialize in natural light photography and am known for bright and airy, natural-looking photos. I love to utilize our Florida landscapes and our Orlando area beaches. I’m very proud of my creative nature when taking photos. I’m also proud of my relationship with clients; I love meeting new people and learning their story and taking that and molding it into the memories that are their new photos. I make sure we have a great time so the photos I get are natural and genuine and that they look forward to returning for photos each year.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love the diversity of Orlando! I love how I can be running down Main Street of the Magic Kingdom with my kids one day, and the next day I can have my toes in the sand photographing a family session on one of our beautiful beaches. There is so much to see and do; my adventurous spirit is never lacking for excitement. If I had to pick something I disliked about our city, it would be the lack of a true fall with changing leaves and chilly temps.
Contact Info:
- Email: kristijoyphoto@gmail.com
- Website: KristiJoy.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/kristijoyphotography
- Facebook: Facebook.com/kristijoyphoto
