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My journey as a photographer began six years ago, at just 15 years old. While most of my peers were navigating typical high school life, I was building my first website and launching my first business: Kayla Shae Photography.

Photography quickly became my main source of income during high school, but during the pandemic, it shifted into something much more personal. I began to see photography as an art form—one rooted in emotion, storytelling, and connection. As I navigated my own path and discovered who I wanted to become, I stepped away from the business side of photography for a while. Still, I never stopped creating. Whether I was documenting everyday moments, traveling to new places, or creating content that told meaningful stories, my camera was always with me. During this break I had incredible opportunities to travel. Travel opened my eyes to new cultures, perspectives, and landscapes, reminding me that every person and every place has a story and beauty worth capturing. Through both photography and content creation, I found my passion for preserving experiences and creating images that make people feel something.

From the beginning, my goal with photography has never been about making money—it has always been about making people feel good about themselves. I’ve never been drawn to weddings or traditional family sessions. My heart has always been in portrait photography, especially capturing individuals who need a reminder of just how incredibly and uniquely beautiful they are.

Growing up, I struggled with my own self-image. I was insecure and a little overweight. I didn’t get asked to dances or dates, and I often felt isolated. Those years were difficult. Photography became my outlet. Even when I didn’t feel beautiful myself, I could create beauty through my lens and show others what I saw in them—the confidence, strength, and uniqueness they sometimes couldn't see in themselves.

Photography became a way for me to reflect the kind of confidence I had always longed for. Now, seven years later, I’ve found that confidence and self-love within myself. Along the way, I also fell in love with traveling and content creation, which have allowed me to tell stories beyond portraits and continuously challenge my creativity. I’ve also found a passion for bodybuilding—a sport that, like photography, is deeply rooted in discipline, resilience, and self-worth. Each of these passions has shaped the person and artist I am today.

I’m officially relaunching Kayla Shae Photography with a renewed vision: portrait and fitness photography, while continuing to embrace travel and lifestyle content creation. To me, they all share the same purpose—telling authentic stories, celebrating growth, and empowering people to see themselves in a new light. Whether you're stepping in front of the camera to admire your strength, document a new chapter, create meaningful content, or simply be reminded of your own beauty, I’m here to help you feel like the work of art you already are.