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

Hi Kara, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Inclusivity. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I know how hard it can be to let your love and relationship shine in public. It can be even harder when that relationship is on display in front of a camera. My mission in my photography is to provide a safe space for nontraditional couples to feel like themselves, regardless of what that may look like. I strive to shake up and question the wedding industry, pushing it to become a more inclusive place for all couples.

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.
Photography is the art of capturing a moment in time – the action, the emotion, the story. It’s paying attention to what’s happening around you and having the ability to predict the special moments that deserve to be captured. Within my photography, I strive to tell the stories of LGBTQ+ love in particular, providing my community with a space where they can finally be themselves. I document and celebrate these moments in hopes of helping people that may not be as accepting of the community to feel the emotion between the people in my frame. I aim to provide a glimpse into the beauty of these relationships.

I’ve gotten to where I am professionally through an incredible network of artists around me. I have so many incredible photographers lifting me up – whether that be through mentorships, workshops, or just being there to chat when I’m on the edge of a breakdown.

The road has not been easy, especially after I gave up a corporate role to pursue photography full time. I still feel like I’m in a bit of a free fall sometimes, just hoping my parachute opens. But what keeps me going is my drive and motivation to see my community documented in this art form and being able to tell their stories.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to not be afraid to be bold. As I’ve grown in my career, I’ve learned how gendered the wedding industry is, and I know it’s up to photographers like me to question how things have historically been done. This involves being willing to piss some people off while staying true to myself and my beliefs.

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 love Lookout Mountain Park – it’s such beautiful views in a really easy to access spot. I love being able to go there and take in a full mountain view, while still being able to get beers in Golden.

Standley Lake is one of my favorite places to go camping in Denver. The lake is gorgeous and peaceful, and the campgrounds have incredible views. It’s such a zen place, especially being so close to downtown.

And finally, Red Rocks obviously must be mentioned. The amphitheater is amazing, but there is so much magic in all the hiking trails surrounding as well.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shoutout McKenzie Bigliazzi, an incredible elopement photographer located in Denver. She has helped me recognize that it’s okay to question the wedding industry, and to speak up and be bold.

I’d also like to shoutout my grandfather. He’s the one who first taught me about photography, and he’s been one of my biggest cheerleaders. He’s always led my family with an entrepreneurial spirit, which helped me feel confident to take the leap in starting my business.

    

Website: www.karahunterphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/karahunter_photography

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