At 500px, our focus is on amazing photography. We recognize that these incredible photos are made possible by the talented individuals behind the camera lens. That’s why we have the 500px Spotlight series, where we highlight the diverse and global photographers who are part of the 500px Community. This week, we introduce you to Kaitlyn Sawyer, a Licensing Contributor who is a freelance photographer based in West Tennessee. Kaitlyn’s unique style and approach to photography, as well as her creative concepts and lighting, caught our attention. We also admire her commitment to casting models who reflect diversity in her portfolio, which adds to the captivating narratives and personalities of her models.
Q: Hello Kaitlyn! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
A: I’m a creative portrait photographer based in West Tennessee. I’ve been freelancing for over six years, focusing primarily on alternative fashion and creative lighting. My passion lies in dreaming up new concepts and finding innovative ways to tell stories through my photos.
Q: Kaitlyn, when did you first start pursuing photography, and what drove you to make it your career?
A: I started exploring photography during my teen years. Initially, it was a way for me to capture memories with my friends and indulge in typical teenage activities like taking selfies. However, it wasn’t until I received a Nikon DSLR from a family member who had been a photographer that I truly became invested in it. At that point in my life, I was struggling with severe depression, OCD, and Bipolar 2. I felt lost and believed I wasn’t good at anything. So, I asked myself, “What else can I do?” I spent a long time searching for an outlet to quiet the thoughts in my head. That’s when I picked up that old Nikon DSLR. It may not have meant much to those around me, but it gave me a sense of power and ownership over something I created. Photography became my comfort zone, and I started by shooting with individuals in the queer community. The joy my photos brought them inspired me greatly. Not only could I provide a safe space for self-expression, but I also found it within myself.
Q: Your recent photoshoot for this interview is absolutely stunning. It beautifully captures the authentic expressions of holiday celebration, joy, and love within an LGBTQ+ family. Why did you choose this as the focus for your series?
A: Despite same-sex marriage being legal in the U.S. for only a relatively short time of eight years, we have continuously shown that we are here and we’re not going anywhere. Personally, I find it incredibly inspiring to witness older generations of the LGBTQ+ community still thriving without any apologies. These are the individuals who fought for our freedom and lived their truth fearlessly, paving the way for who we are today.
Q: Many of your portfolio photos showcase themes of connection and love. The photo below, for example, could have easily been shot without showing the models’ hands, but you chose to include them, creating a closer and more intimate atmosphere. Do you have any tips for building this level of intimacy with your models?
A: In this particular photo, I asked the models to get close and look at each other. I then prompted them to whisper jokes to make each other laugh. Through this process, I was able to capture a genuine and beautiful moment. Another technique I use to encourage interaction between models is simply letting them talk to each other. Even if they initially feel uncomfortable in front of the camera, they find comfort in one another. Ultimately, that’s what truly matters.
Q: Your shoot was conducted in low light conditions with various colored holiday lights. Despite these challenges, your models are still illuminated and clear. Could you tell us about the technical aspects of this shoot?
A: For this shoot, I used a Canon Rebel T7i and a Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens. Since the lighting conditions were dark and my models’ schedules didn’t allow for a daytime shoot, I relied on a single Godox V860IIC TTL Flash with the XProC TTL Trigger. To soften the harsh light, I utilized a white umbrella. This particular lighting setup is my go-to for on-the-go shoots.
Q: Your choice of models is always spot-on! How do you go about selecting the right models for your shoots, and what is your approach to recruiting them?
A: When I first started out, most of my models were my close friends and individuals from my local community. As someone working with a limited budget, finding models isn’t always easy. However, over the years, I have found it easier to reach out through social media or network through mutual connections. I usually start with a concept and hold onto it until I come across someone who fits the vibe or aesthetic I’m aiming for. Then, I reach out to them and ask if they would be interested in doing a photoshoot. If they agree, we collaborate to bring our styles together and create something that resonates with their personal vision. I always make it a point to ask them what makes them authentic, as being true to themselves is crucial.
Q: As an experienced photographer who often works with members of the LGBTQ+ community, do you have any recommendations for photographers on how to politely and respectfully ask for gender identification when titling and keywording images for Licensing purposes?
A: The most respectful way to inquire about someone’s pronouns is by asking, “How do you identify?” or “What are your pronouns?”. It is crucial to establish this early on in order to avoid misgendering.
Q: Social media has proven to be a valuable tool for self-promotion and cultivating a community. We love your TikTok account, where you have gained a fantastic following! Do you have any advice for photographers who want to start their own TikTok?
A:I enjoy documenting my journey as an aspiring professional and showing others how they can do the same. When I have an assistant available during photoshoots, I make sure to ask for short 10-second clips of any new developments. On the occasions when I don’t have an assistant, I position my phone in a way that captures my subject, the background, and glimpses of me taking photos. I often forget and end up with 25-minute videos, so there’s probably a better way to do it, but it’s fun! I intentionally use my phone for these behind-the-scenes videos to showcase the limitations of my environment and how I overcome obstacles to achieve the final result. Ideally, you should aim to post on TikTok at least 3 to 4 times a week, but consistency varies depending on personal capacity. In the past, I’ve worried too much about the number of likes determining my skill level. However, it’s important to remember that likes are just algorithms. My best advice is to learn to create for yourself. Do what you want, not what others expect of you. Even if it doesn’t receive the attention you think it deserves.
Q: If you were given an unlimited budget to execute any shoot you could dream of, what would it be?
A: If I had the opportunity, I would love to do underwater long exposure photography. Perhaps in an aquarium or water tank! I envision capturing two long-haired mermaids draped in sheer fabric that flows freely underwater. Fish of various sizes, colors, and shapes would swim around them. The scene would be filled with the hazy blue water and the hair illuminated by optic lighting. The possibilities are endless!
Q: Are there any current or upcoming projects that you can share with us?
A: In the coming year, I plan on starting a photojournalism series that focuses on the coming out stories of LGBTQ+ elders and youth, primarily in the southern states of America. My aim is to explore the differences within our own community and what we can learn from it in the midst of a continuously changing world.
Keep up with more of Kaitlyn Sawyer’s work:
– 500px
– Instagram
– TikTok
– Website
Not on 500px yet? Click here to learn about Licensing with 500px.
Related