Meet Makenzie Thomas | Professional Photographer

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

Hi Makenzie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I never imagined myself as a photographer, I always wanted to pursue a degree in the dental industry. It all started out as a hobby. My parents got me a camera as a Christmas gift. I enjoyed capturing family events, but then I realized I had the potential and wanted more. I’ve always viewed myself as being a business owner, but I never knew what suited me. Deep down, I’ve always had the drive to be my own boss. My mother and grandfather owned their own businesses, and I wanted to be successful like them. I began taking photographs of friends and family to gain experience to add to my portfolio. I got busier and busier the more I posted to social media. I wanted my photos to achieve the light and airy look, so I reached out to a local photographer, Bailey Weisser with Hello Jude Photography. She mentored me through all the components of photography. I can not thank her enough, because of her, my photography would not be where it is today. I am a very crafty and creative individual. Photography allows me to be creative while building a relationship with clients, as well as making money while doing it. There is no better feeling than delivering a gallery and seeing a thrilled/happy response from your client. It makes you feel successful, humbled, and the desire to improve your skills to do more.

What should our readers know about your business?
Without challenges, we would never grow. There have been struggles as well as ups & downs along the way. Finding the balance between my social life, full-time job, scheduling photoshoots, and editing can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. However, I seem to manage it pretty well and everything always works itself out. Working from home allows me to feel less stressed, more organized and allows me to be more successful not only in my business but my full-time job as well. The brand behind my story is a small town girl striving to reach big girl dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am from a small town located in Jackson County. Typically, I go to Athens or Gainesville to shop, hangout, and/or grab drinks. It’s always a good time cheering on the dawgs, picking out game day attire on Clayton Street, and sipping on a cocktail at a rooftop bar in the Classic City. A few of my favorites in Athens are oysters at Seabear, sushi at Chucks Fish, and Last Resort Grill for a slice of White Chocolate Cheesecake. Gainesville is on the upcoming. Standard Station is a great social spot, I highly recommend a juicy burger at Avacados, and ending the night with a glass of wine at Cork it.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve always envisioned myself being a business owner and had entrepreneur spirit. This stems from my family owning their own business. Growing up, I watched my mom, stepfather, and grandparents run their own business. I knew I always wanted to do the same, but wanted to figure it out on my own. This being said, I would like to thank my family for always encouraging me, pushing me, and giving me hope to never give up on my dreams.

Website: http://kenziebrookephotography.pixieset.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/kenziebrooke_photography?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KenzieBrookeThomasPhotography/

Image Credits
Makenzie Thomas (Kenzie Brooke Photography)