Meet Katy Mariie: Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katy Mariie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katy, how do you think about risk?
I think that anyone pursuing an artistic career needs to be comfortable with taking risks. It’s a risk to create something personal and then display it for the world to see for fear of rejection or criticism. It’s a risk to put endless time, money, and effort into something that isn’t guaranteed. It was my biggest risk when I decided travel photography was what I was going to pursue. Man, was that an expensive decision. Not a hard decision though, admittedly I contain a questionable level of reckless courage to begin with. I’m comfortable with being outside my comfort zone and I believe because of that I can call myself a photographer.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I will admit I don’t yet have a honed understanding of the process of making art. Sometimes the love/hate relationship I have with the darkroom alone is emotionally draining. Every artist has their own style and way about creating. One of the many beauties of photography is how differently the same subject can be interpreted. The hardest part is trying to stay unique in a sea of millions of photographs.In my opinion, my best work is my personal material. Work that I feel connected to. I love to explore other cultures and discover the hidden beauties in the world. I am an emotionally raw person and that is uniquely evident in my art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I was planning the best trip in Atlanta, GA, the first thing on that list is Ponce City Market. Not only is this place great for an afternoon snack and some shopping but there is a rooftop that connects the BeltLine. After walking the best line we would play mini putt putt on the rooftop and eat at the restaurant. Another amazing restaurant is Imperial Fez. It is the perfect date night for great food, drinks, and entertainment. And to conclude, we would visit the high museum and Little 5Points because they are an absolute must-see for tourists. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, my parents deserve all the credit. If it was not for them, I would not be where I am or who I am today. I am very blessed to have two parents that support my career as an artist; not many artists have a support system like I do. I also want to shoutout my high school photography teacher, Barb Swanner. She always encouraged my self expression not just in my art, but in everything. She showed me just how powerful photography can be. How one single photograph can uniquely unite those that analyze it, no matter who they are or where they come from. Because of these wonderful people I get to chase my dream. Because of them, I get to call myself an artist, and I am eternally grateful.

Website: kmariie.com

Instagram: @la.fia

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlynmathis/

Image Credits
Katy Mariie