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

Hi Kendra, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
I feel that staying consistent has helped me succeed. Posting on social media, photographing multiple times a week, and staying in touch with clients show my dedication. In return, my clients continue to come back and/or recommend me to others. I also believe continually learning how I do has helped me reach my goals. I am always looking for more education to better myself and my business.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I own KendraMcClainePhotographyLLC. I opened this business when I was 19 years old. Getting to the point of having an LLC, and navigating what to do next, was and is a challenge. I started photographing when I was around 12 years old. But, I’ve always had a camera in my hands since I was young. Shortly after high school, I was lost. I had no idea what I wanted to do next. But the ONE thing that brought me joy was photography. Eventually, I opened an LLC and started the business side of photography. I don’t have anyone in my family that knows about an LLC, so I truly felt lost. There are still some days that I am lost. But this last year I have learned so much. It’s been far from easy. But with the help of social media and other photographers, I’ve been able to make it this far! I’ve learned that you can not let others influence your decisions. Whether that’s pricing, certain shots, or what direction to take next, you need to do what YOU believe will benefit yourself. That’s what I hope others who book with me know! I will always hype you up to do what YOU believe to do.

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 local to East Tawas, Michigan. A very small yet cute town. Here’s a few suggestions I would have for you to visit while you’re here!

When you wake up in the early morning and need a little caffeine before catching the sunrise, I suggest you check out Northern Nutrition. Located right behind Brew Krew on Newman St. Shortly after getting a yummy tea or coffee, drive out to Tawas Point. Sit in the sand and enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the lighthouse! After doing so, check out Augies on the Bay for a nice bite to eat!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout my journey, I’ve had tremendous support. Between friends, family, and clientele. But there is someone that has had a huge impact on my story. I would like to give recognition to my fiancé, Jacob Sytek. From the moment I met Jacob, he has always supported my career. He gifted me my dream camera a few years ago. That camera meant so much more to me than most would understand. Not only it being my DREAM, but it also improved my quality drastically. This encouraged other clients to book with me. Jacob stepped up last summer and learned how to work a camera. He started second shooting weddings with me, and is now my go – to person!

One night I was feeling very discouraged in this business. I didn’t think I wanted to continue. I was ready to sell every piece of equipment I owned and walk away. Jacob knew how devastated I was. After crying to him for hours, he pointed at the tattoo on my hand, a camera. He said, “Why did you get this tattoo?”. I said, “Because I love photography.”. He replied, “Exactly. Don’t let one person take the love away from something you’ve worked so hard for.”. That was the moment I kept going.

Website: https://kendramcclainephotography97.mypixieset.com/

Image Credits
First Image – Branding Headshot – Credit: Hannah Moran

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