Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin White.
Hi Kevin, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As I look back, I became interested in photography when I would be in any waiting room with magazines. I found the photographs to spur a deeper look at how those images were created and what the photographer’s message was in the photograph. When I was in high school I finally began to make my own pictures for the school yearbook and newspaper. On one particular day, I was invited to visit a commercial photo studio in Minneapolis as a part of “Career Day” On that day I was able to observe the daily activities of three photographers and three very different genres of advertising photography. One photographer was shooting cutlery, one corporate portraits and the third was shooting women in lingerie for Target. All of this sparked a desire to become a commercial photographer. After my senior year of high school, I attended a two-year program in photography. Once this program was complete, I went back the same studio where my visit took place two years earlier and completed an internship. I began freelance photo assisting for the next 4 yrs where I was able to absorb so much about the industry from great photographers. For years five and six of my assisting career, I worked on staff as an assistant at Pierce photography in Minneapolis. It was once again the same studio that made such an impression on me back in high school. In my opinion, Pierce photography and the photographers, there were some of the best the country had to offer. I was blessed in the six years of assisting to have had the opportunity to learn from Rod Pierce, Mike Maki, Bob McNamara, Denny Strunc and Joel Larson. Five incredibly talented and generous photographers. Without their support and willingness to share their knowledge, I highly doubt I would be where I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been smooth for sure. About five years into building my career as a photographer I was struggling financially and near bankruptcy. I called my dad and was looking for help. He asked what I needed to make it through the next month. I said $3,000. He said ok and I had the money in less than a week. I found out later my dad actually borrowed the money to borrow me. He asked what I was going to do if I didn’t do photography and my reply was I’m not sure… maybe join the military as my older brother did. He said, “let’s give it one more month. You’re too talented. You’re gonna make it.” Shortly after that, I landed my first Target project and that was the beginning of a very long relationship. The Crash 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic have also tested my resolve.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work generally has people in it. A large percentage of my work is in the fashion and beauty genres. I think one of my biggest strengths is lighting and experience. I pride myself on talent research to offer clients strong recommendations.
My experience, my knowledge and my creativity set me apart for sure.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Family, Health and God. In no particular order.
Contact Info:
- Website: k-white.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdwhitefoto/
