Knyla Harris (Blue Ridge District - Gretna, VA)
How did you first find your way into photography, and what made it stick as a career?
I started my photography career literally by accident. I was a cake designer and I needed better pictures of my cakes for social media. I decided to buy a camera to take better pictures and realized I really liked photography. In 2013, Knyla Harris Photography was born.
Before photography, were you involved in any other creative work that shaped how you approach what you do now?
Before photography I was a cake designer which in itself is works of art. Being able to manipulate cake into the vision that I or my client had was no small matter. Also, I have been doing obituaries for local funeral homes for 27 years. Designing those programs brought out my creativity as well.
What surprised you most about running a photography business once you were fully in it?
What surprised me most about running a photography business was that it is so much more involved in it than I thought from the beginning. When I first started, I just thought I would make beautiful portraits for clients and be done, not realizing there was a whole other side which was the business side of photography.
What do you feel most confident about in your work today compared to when you started?
I feel most confident in knowing that because of what I have learned about photography through the years such as how to light properly, posing, knowing my camera and the basics of photography helped me to grow to where I am today. But I cannot stress the importance of having my mentor Lisa Carter, helping to guide my career all these years. Also, through prayer and faith and trusting in God to lead me on this path, has just been amazing.
How has being part of VPPA shaped your growth as a photographer and businesswoman?
Being a part of VPPA has been nothing short of amazing. I love how we are just one big family. I know that if I need help with anything anyone of my fellow photographers would be right there to help. Another benefit has been the seminars and conventions. Being able to go to those and learn from some of the best photographers has really helped shape my photography and business. Last but not least, Print Competition has been a tremendous blessing. Just being able to submit images and learn what is right about your image and what you can improve on, has been the most rewarding.
What’s one skill, habit, or mindset that has made the biggest difference in your growth?
I think the biggest mindset for me has been learning my value and my worth. So many times, I doubted myself and felt undervalued but having that confidence in who I am and the art I produce has allowed me to stand tall in who I am as a creative artist who just happens to be a photographer.
What kind of work or subject matter excites you the most right now?
I love being able to create different works of art with women. Although I like photographing men and have won awards with men’s portraits, I still love being creative in photographing women.
What advice would you give to a photographer who’s a few years behind you on the path?
To an up-and-coming photographer, I would say, LEARN YOUR CRAFT!!! It’s more than just pushing a button and charging money. There is so much more to photography than that. Also get a mentor, having a mentor is priceless. Having someone who can praise you when you have done well and also give you that hard critique so that you can grow. NEVER STOP LEARNING!!!!!!!