Meet Kaitlyn Criss | Professional Sports Photographer

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

Hi Kaitlyn, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
By the end of my career, I want to be deeply involved in the sports media industry, specifically capturing the spirit and intensity of hockey through photography and digital storytelling. My ultimate goal is to work with the NHL or a major media outlet, creating content that resonates with fans and helps grow the sport. Beyond that, I hope to mentor the next generation of photographers and media professionals, passing on the knowledge and passion that have fueled my journey. It’s all about leaving a legacy of creativity and connection in the sports world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is centered around capturing the passion, intensity, and emotion of sports, particularly hockey. What sets me apart is my ability to tell a story through my photography and digital media content. I don’t just focus on the action on the ice but also on the energy of the fans, the quiet moments behind the scenes, and the connections that make sports so special. I aim to create content that makes viewers feel like they’re part of the experience.

Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. From balancing school and freelance gigs to working late nights at games, it’s been a journey of perseverance and passion. One of the biggest hurdles was breaking into the competitive world of sports media. I overcame this by staying persistent, saying yes to opportunities that allowed me to grow, and constantly seeking feedback to improve my craft.

Some of the lessons I’ve learned include the importance of networking, staying adaptable, and always being open to learning new things. Every person I’ve met and every opportunity I’ve had has contributed to my growth.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m not just a photographer—I’m a storyteller. My work is about connecting people to the moments that matter, whether it’s a goal celebration, a fan’s expression of pure joy, or the dedication behind the scenes. My story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep love for creating art that inspires others.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since I’ve only been here a few months, my recommendations focus on the highlights I’ve come to love. I’d take my best friend to a Colorado Eagles hockey game at the Blue Arena—there’s nothing like the energy of live hockey! We’d spend the rest of the time exploring the Loveland and Fort Collins area, wandering through charming shops, antique stores, and local gems like sculpture gardens or botanical spaces. For outdoor adventures, we’d visit Horsetooth Reservoir or take a day trip to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking views and fresh air. Each day would begin with breakfast at cute cafés or bakeries and end with lunch or dinner at local restaurants, soaking in the warm and inviting atmosphere of Colorado.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been so many people who have helped me get to where I am today that I couldn’t possibly name them all. However, my family deserves a huge shoutout for always pushing me to do what I love and supporting me in every way possible. They’ve been my foundation and my biggest cheerleaders.

My most recent shoutout goes to the incredible mentors and teammates I’ve worked with in the sports media world. From my internships and freelance roles to my time with the Colorado Eagles, I’ve learned so much from the guidance and collaboration of those around me. Their encouragement and willingness to share their expertise have been invaluable to my growth as a photographer and storyteller. I’m truly grateful to everyone who’s been a part of my journey.

Website: https://kaitlyncrissphoto.myportfolio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitlyncrissphoto/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-criss-2a0709225/

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaitycriss

Image Credits
Gerald Leong for the personal photo