Today we’d like to introduce you to Hilary Koon.
Hi Hilary, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I first bought a camera after I had my daughter. At this point, I was teaching elementary school and really needed a creative outlet and wanted to capture the essence of childhood. I started off with my own family, and quickly friends and family wanted to have sessions. Around a year in, I had a couple want to do an engagement session. They ended up loving their photos so much they wouldn’t take no when they asked me to be their wedding photographer. During this time, I second shot to learn the flow of weddings and the skill it takes. Quickly I realized this was my passion and have since focused on weddings for the past 7 years!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would say for the most part it has been a smooth road. Of course, there was a learning curve at the start of my journey. My passion truly drove me to learn as much as I could. My focus on relationships in my everyday life helped when building relationships with clients. It has been amazing to have captured so many weddings over the years! During the pandemic, of course, the biggest hit was felt, but through reschedules and having a good relationship with clients, we were able to pull through and make the best of multiple weddings, smaller weddings, receptions at later dates. It was a rollercoaster that I am glad is over reschedule wise!
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I focus on weddings and couples. I really just love getting clients to feel comfortable in front of the camera and myself. I tend to joke and be silly to show them it’s ok to be yourself! I think photos shine when you are capturing people as they come to you rather than capturing them for a certain spot on your social media feed. I’m really known for hyping people up, being wild and crazy, and for showing up for my clients. I’ve put out many fires, stepped in to help plan or organize. I really just love being there for my people.
What does success mean to you?
Success is honestly happiness. I don’t think you can put a dollar amount on it. If you are happy and at peace, you are successful. Bottom line.
Pricing:
- My pricing starts at around $600 for couples and engagements. Weddings start at $3,000
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hilarykoonphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/hilarykoonphoto
Image Credits
Hilary Koon Photography
