Story & Lesson Highlights with Catie Menke Wilson of Phoenix

We recently had the chance to connect with Catie Menke Wilson and have shared our conversation below.

Catie, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
My daily art practice! It’s my way of nurturing my creativity by doing art for an hour each day. Even though my goal is an hour, I often get lost in the creative process and continue for longer. It’s less structured than it used to be because I’m always exploring different projects. This practice helps me evolve my artistic voice through photoshoots and editing, mixed media and the occasional fashion upcycling project.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a fashion and beauty photographer based in Phoenix and Los Angeles. My edgy, artistic photography can help build modeling portfolios and create compelling branding imagery. I love to capture in-the-moment authenticity by incorporating digi cam and film shots into my photoshoots, and I often transform my photos with collage edits and graphic design elements.

Alongside my photography, I’m an artist, handcrafting my original images into mixed media designs. It helps shape my creative style, and I offer custom designs for special projects like branding or magazines.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me the most about work. He owned a business with his two brothers, which showed me that entrepreneurship could be an option. I saw how difficult and time-consuming it can be but also how rewarding it can be to be your own boss. As a business owner myself now, I appreciate how hard he worked and how much he dedicated himself to his business. He’s also super creative, which I always admired along with his perfectionism. Most of all, I’m grateful that he showed me not to fear working for yourself.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that any “no” or any rejection is just a part of the journey. I’d encourage my past self that each one is leading you to your “yes” exactly where you’re meant to be. One decision caused by rejection and redirection can shape your whole path in the most beautiful way, like how my decision to move to Arizona led me to my current career as a photographer.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to finding my creative voice. I’m always searching for it, and it’s something I’m always redefining and reshaping. One way I keep pursuing this is through my daily art practice. There’s a lot of experimentation required to find and evolve my unique personal style, but I’m committed to pursuing that process forever.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I’m most at peace when I’m creating! When I get into a creative flow, I feel like I’m where I’m meant to be. It’s a really joyful and energizing type of peace. I also feel at peace in the small, in-between moments spent with my husband and our dog, my family, or my friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.catiemenke.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catiemenke/
• Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/catiemenke/