Starting in the darkroom and growing into a successful wedding photography business, Katie Monroe proves that passion can truly take you places. Her journey showcases how a photographer can thrive, expand their offerings, and maintain a healthy balance between work and life.

When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?

My journey began in the darkroom and art studio, where I painted whatever inspired me. I then interned at the National Geographic photography department and worked for various production companies in the Bay Area. 

Eventually, I stopped freelancing and went all in on my dream to create something that would impact people's lives beyond photographs. That's how Kreate Photography was born.

How did you get into wedding photography?

I shot my first wedding in Guatemala in 2007 with my Aunt Sue, a lifelong wedding photographer, and never looked back. I built my business through associate and second shooting, booking lower-end weddings to establish my brand. 

My transformation began when I invested in education and created editing SOPs, systems, and workflows. Today, my business thrives on these systems, allowing me to grow a wedding photography team, start a family, and expand into commercial photography while maintaining a multi-six-figure business. I've shot over 575 weddings and served over 800 couples and families.

How would you describe your photography style?

My style is natural, editorial, descriptive, and fine-art. My approach is rooted in building trust, making clients feel comfortable throughout the process. I blend editorial, photojournalistic, and candid styles to create visual narratives. 

What would you suggest to photographers looking to create their own style?

Creating a unique style requires containers for ideas and artistic evolution. I recommend starting with a visual mood board. Pin photos for posing inspiration and editing styles you love on platforms like Pinterest, Canva, or Google Doc. Over time, refine what is truly yours. 

You can know more about her guide here.

How do you prepare for a photography session?

I rely on habits and systems, using a Photoshoot Preparation Checklist that my team reviews before every shoot. This checklist is available to photographers for download here.

How has AI like Aftershoot changed your workflow?

AI should be a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. Aftershoot has revolutionized our pre-outsourcing workflow, handling base culling, color coding, and adding our base preset. This boosts productivity while keeping my editing team employed. We’ve improved our workflow, allowing us to focus on what we love: shooting and being with clients worldwide.

What inspires you?

My family, nature, and art inspire me. My husband, daughter Raya, and son Levi are my world. Motherhood has brought soul-driven purpose to my life outside of my career. I also find inspiration in cooking, art, interior design, health, and adventure through nature, yoga, travel, and family time.

What are the best and worst things about wedding photography?

Wedding photography is rewarding and collaborative when aligned with your life vision. However, it requires emotional attunement, which can lead to burnout if not managed carefully.

How do you manage brand and lifestyle photography alongside weddings?

Katie Monroe Photography, our commercial and branding branch, has distinct workflows and client experiences. I have ensured that both my brands are distinct. 

I have a passion for marketing and branding so I love working with companies looking to build their brand. While it sounds like extra work, working with corporate organizations and brands means a second revenue stream without even any weekend work. 🙂

What advice would you give to new professional photographers?

Many photographers think success means working harder, but this "hustle culture" leads to burnout. Avoid trying to do everything yourself. Outsource early, invest in education, and set up a CRM by year two. The biggest reason photography businesses plateau is a lack of strategy.

Tell us about your AI Editing Styles in Aftershoot.

The ‘Kreate Naturelle’ Creator Style is ideal for photographers seeking a refined, editorial, luxury style. It offers a clean, modern color film look with balanced hues, warm undertones, and glowing skin. It’s versatile for both natural and artificial light and can be converted to black and white, making it perfect for weddings, family portraits, and commercial work.

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