From studio manager to apprentice boudoir photographer, Kelly is embracing a new role
After working behind-the-scenes for Revealed Studios for the last two year, studio manager Kelly Feldmiller is stretching her wings by becoming an apprenticed boudoir photographer.
We first started talking about her learning back in January after I asked her to snap some pictures of me while I was pregnant. The photos were good…really good…so good in fact that Splash Magazine featured them in an article. Afterwards I joked with her, “You’re already a published photographer after only one shoot!”
There’s so much about Kelly that makes this move a no brainer. Having loads of experience assisting and editing our boudoir sessions means she’s a quick learner. She has a natural eye and sense of what looks good. You can’t teach that. Plus, she’s one of the most disarming people I’ve ever met. Tensions melt away in her presence.
I’m blown away by her first solo photoshoot. These images were taken completely on her own. I wasn’t even in the studio at the time. I think the pictures turned out absolutely stunning.
Afterwards, I sat down with her to ask how she felt about the session and growing into this new role…
“I’m a HUGE fan of positive affirmation.”
Q. Why did you want to start taking pictures for Revealed Studios?
A: It was never something I set out to do. I’ve always been interested in photography, but when I started managing Revealed I thought that just being in the artistic environment was what drew me in. After I editing Revealed’s boudoir sessions and being on so many shoots, I started to envision the pictures I would want to take. I think just being in such a creative and collaborative environment lead me here.
Also, ask anyone who knows me, I’m a HUGE fan of positive affirmation. I think the work we do at Revealed comes from that place. Giving words of positive affirmation is one thing, but being able to show that in a picture honestly impresses me.
Q. What was your first solo shoot like?
“I‘ve been on so many shoots where I’m not the nervous one, but our client is, that I think I went into positivity/welcoming mode once I got into our space.”
A: Oh my gosh, I was so nervous! Actually, I was more nervous getting ready that day and driving to the shoot. Then once I arrived I mellowed out. I’ve been on so many shoots where I’m not the nervous one, but our client is, that I think I went into positivity/welcoming mode once I got into our space. It was a huge learning experience doing it on my own, but it was also really fun and inspiring to be on the creative side of things.
Q. You’ve been behind-the-scenes for some time now, can you tell our readers a little about yourself?
“I’m obsessed with my dog, Hektor, I used to be a professional baker, and I’m probably sensitive to a fault, but I like it that way.”
A: I’ve known and been close friends with Maggie for about 8 years now, so it was great when I got the opportunity to work with her at Revealed. Coming from a management background, I first started off taking care of the business operations, scheduling clients, and assisting on shoots. Soon I became really interested in all the technical aspects as well as editing.
I love every bit of my job. Working with women and being a part of a company that helps women see themselves in such a positive way has been affirming in my everyday life, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that impact.
Bullet points for my personal life though- I’m obsessed with my dog, Hektor, I used to be a professional baker, and I’m probably sensitive to a fault, but I like it that way.
Q. What inspires you while taking pictures?
“I think it was also the lighting that day and general mood…and listening to Lemonade on repeat (I mean seriously, for like 3-4 hours).”
A: I think it’s so many things. The day I took these pictures it was definitely the beautiful person I was working with, picking up our vibe together and her personality. Every client I’ve worked with at Revealed has their own personality and I think it’s so much fun to get to read someone and be inspired by each person…
I think it was also the lighting that day and general mood…and listening to Lemonade on repeat (I mean seriously, for like 3-4 hours).
Q. Do you think you have a natural style or direction?
“I love candid moments, those sort of in between shots when someone’s not in a full on pose, where their vulnerability can show through, but to some extant I think that’s mirroring myself and where I’m at with the learning process.”
A: I think that I do, but I also don’t know if I want to put a pin on it yet. I’m excited to see where it grows. Right now, I love candid moments, those sort of in between shots when someone’s not in a full on pose, where their vulnerability can show through, but to some extent I think that’s mirroring myself and where I’m at with the learning process. My directing style takes after Maggie’s in every way, or at least in where I hope to be someday. I love making people feel comfortable, in fact I have a crazy thing about not wanting anyone to have to feel awkward ever (which is impossible by the way). So I want to make sure each person I work with knows that we’re in this together.
Shortly after her review session, I heard a delighted chirp from Kelly (our studio manager, editor, and photographer in training.) Ms. P had just messaged:
“I had to tell you that I can’t stop thinking about the proofs we went over. I am really excited about the layout of the album and CANNOT wait to see the finished product. You and Maggie are the best and I do hope a drink is in our future at some point!”
It’s the best feeling to do what you love and make people happy in the process. Thank you Ms. P! We look forward to toasting with you!
