Q&A with Macy Ryan Photography // Key West, FL
I had been dreaming of doing a helicopter photo session with Travis ever since I started dating him seven years ago. Macy Ryan Photography finally made my dreams come true right before we moved out of Key West. We had so much fun spending the evening with her capturing these unforgettable moments. As I have mentioned before I think it’s so important to capture even the day to day moments that seem so familiar to you, as I know one day Travis will no longer be flying helicopters and we are already planning on leaving Key West. You just have to record all these life moments!! Life is way too short - and it’s fun to have updated photos in our home. Now I just have to figure out which one to print for our wall! I have way too many favorites?
Here is a fun Q&A with Katherine. If you are looking for a photographer in Key West I highly recommend Macy Ryan (Her name is Katherine, but her photography name is after her two kids - how cute is that!) She will not disappoint!!
1. Most people aren’t from Key West, so where did you grow up and what brought you here?
I am originally from Orlando, FL but moved to South Texas after I graduated college to be with my boyfriend (now husband!!) and his current job brought us to Key West! We moved here in August of 2017 and we have no plans of ever leaving!! Key West is paradise and I can't think of anywhere better to live and raise our 3 kids!
2. When did you start getting interested in photography?
I started in 2010 when I quit my job to be a stay at home mom with my daughter (who is now 10). Since money was tight, I didn't have extra funds to hiring a photographer for every milestone, so I slowly taught myself how to use my camera and photoshop. Those first few years were brutal and look back on those photos and cringe at the quality But I've come a long way and have learned a lot through the years (trial and error - but a lot of errors!!).
3. What is your favorite part about being a photographer?
I love interacting with people! And I love getting to be apart of whatever special event they have going on in their lives. It's an honor to be chosen as the photographer and after every session/wedding I leave feeling like I made lifelong friends!
4. What would you recommend every person should have/hire a photographer for?
Number one reason - so you can be present in your event and step away from your phone. Also, professional photographers understand light and can photograph you in the most flattering of conditions!! And if they happen to not get the best quality of photograph - photoshop can save the day and the photo can be salvaged and still look professional
5. Quickly describe a common photo session with you:
Oh gosh, I am kinda all over the place!! Ha!! I get awkward, but I think it's because I love interacting with people so much and telling stories, but sometimes I get distracted by my camera and I always wonder if my stories even make sense to my clients?! But there are a ton of laughs, and lot of hugging and my goal is to have all my clients leave our session relaxed and in love with their partner/family!!
6. Photo advice for the someone wanting to take a good photograph?? Light!! I think finding the best light and understanding the dynamics of lighting is what will take your photography to the next level! Also, having make clients make real movements rather than poses was a big game changer for me!
7. Just for fun, what is your favorite quote?
"You will never be completely at home again, because part of your heart will always be elsewhere. That is the price you pay for the richness of loving and knowing people in more than one place." I have no idea who said this, but this quote has always stuck with me to remind me of how blessed my life has been. I know so many great people, and lived in so many great places and my heart is at peace knowing how fortunate I am to experience all this in my life!