Conversations with the Inspiring Qiana Kelsch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Qiana Kelsch.

Qiana, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I always had some interest in photography thanks to my mother. She was always taking photos for as long as I can remember. When I was 13, I decided to take a summer school course right before junior high on photography. At first, I wasn’t sure how I would like it. I had to learn how to cut and develop film as well as learn to use a camera before the DSLR days. I enjoyed it and gained a new hobby from that class.

Turning my hobby into business didn’t come together until I was 29. I started with just local clients, photographing birthdays, milestones and family photos. It wasn’t until about four years ago when I tried out commercial photography and fell in love.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Having your own business is never smooth. There are always a few growing pains. For me, it was minor things. In the beginning, I was trying a bit of everything and learned quickly what I was good at and what I wasn’t so good at. Learning that sometimes not everyone will love your work… and that’s ok! You don’t have to be everyone’s cup of tea.

There will always be copycats, so learn to deal with those feelings in a positive way is a much better route to go. And try not to be so hard on yourself, nobody is perfect. To grow as an artist means to learn and try new things. Never stop learning!

What should we know about Qiana K. Photography? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I dabbled in just about every type of photography there is. In the beginning, I felt like I had to do it all in order to have a successful clientele. When in reality, I just needed to find my niche. I specialize in children’s photography with an emphasis on brand and commercial.

Aside from being featured in a few magazines, I am most proud of the photography I did last summer for a book that was published this year. To know that there is a published book out there that contains about 95% of my photography is pretty spectacular!