Meet Brooke Buck | Photographer

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

Hi Brooke, what are you inspired by?
I find inspiration in everyday life. Growing up on a farm taught me to appreciate simple living, which has become one of the values I hold most dear. When I think back to my childhood, I remember running around barefoot, painting rocks, hanging jeans on the clothesline, and watching the iconic Kansas sunsets. I’m naturally someone who likes to stay busy, always thinking or working on something, but I’ve realized that I feel most at peace when I slow down and stay present in those small, everyday moments. That’s why I have a clothesline in my city backyard today. It’s a symbol of those slower, simpler times and a reminder of why I love creating work that makes others feel nostalgic.

I’m also incredibly inspired by travel and experiencing new places, cultures, and people. I always feel reenergized and full of ideas after adventures with my husband and friends.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Another fun question! I started my photography business in my small hometown, then moved it to my college town, and eventually brought it with me to Kansas City when I began grad school. Each move meant starting over in a new community, so I had to get creative. I offered unique mini sets, took photos of friends and family for free, and relied heavily on word of mouth and local networking.

What sets me apart is the connection I build with my clients. I take time to understand each person, family, & brand, meet them where they are, and create an environment where they feel confident and seen. My background in occupational therapy also gives me a unique lens, especially during family sessions. I naturally lean into play and movement, and I can quickly tell when a child needs a break, a shift in energy, or just a moment to reset.

For me, photography isn’t just about delivering beautiful images. It’s about creating a meaningful and memorable experience. I want clients to leave our session feeling like they had fun, felt valued, and were truly themselves. That is what I’m most proud of. The loyalty and trust of my clients, who continue to invite me into their biggest and most personal moments, is what brings me the most joy.

In a world that pulls our attention in so many directions, I want my work to be a reminder to slow down and be present. Whether it’s a family session, branding shoot, or personal milestone, I always aim to capture genuine connection. My love for nostalgia and simple living is woven into everything I do, and I hope my brand brings people back to what really matters!

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.
There’s nothing I love more than showing my favorite people around KC. One of my ideal days would start with coffee and breakfast at Hemma Hemma, followed by a stroll through the Brookside shops to walk off the overindulgence, ha!
I always bring people to Sierra Winter Jewelry. Not only does she have the most beautiful jewelry and gift items, but she’s also one of the biggest reasons I was able to take the leap into photography full-time here in Kansas City. If we’re feeling creative, we might even spend some time at the bead bar in her shop.

For lunch, I’d head to French Market for the Hannah fries (if you know, you know,) paired with spritzes on the patio. Then it’s back to my house for a float in the stock tank pool, and a little downtime before heading out for dinner at one of my absolute favorites, Antler Room!

There are so many great places for a nightcap, but The Primrose in Mission is one of my go-to spots. That’s one of my ideal days in Kansas City!

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 love this question and could probably go on way too long about all the people who have encouraged me, both in the past and now. My parents did such a great job of recognizing my entrepreneurial spirit early on. They supported all of my hobbies and creative interests and even bought me my first camera when I was in high school. Between their support and the creative influence of my grandmothers and great-grandmothers, I had a solid foundation for building this business.

My great-grandmother was a talented painter, and I proudly display her work in my home. My grandmas shared their love of piano playing, quilting, writing, and scrapbooking with me, and I cherish the memories I have of doing those things with them growing up.

Even now, my friends and family are constantly cheering me on and sharing my name with people they know. I really do feel lucky to have such an encouraging and supportive circle around me.

Website: https://www.brookebuckphotography.com

Instagram: @brookebuckphoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063680582765#