Kelly Williams
Photographer
Kelly Williams Photography
Dallas, TX USA
“The goal is to get as many ‘no’s’ as you can get because you’re going to get a ‘yes’ eventually. Just put yourself out there and don’t be scared.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationKelly Williams
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
Grew up in a small rural area of Ohio in a lower middle class family.
Took up the hobby of photography at age 11 after first learning the fundamentals in a middle school photography class.
In high school, a family friend gifted her a camera with interchangeable lenses, which allowed her to experiment more with her art and learn more about photography.
Attended the Ohio Institute of Photography where she got her degree in portrait photography—says this school focused on the technical and that “you didn’t really get to explore creativity.”
Her first job out of college was working for a small portrait studio that she ended up getting fired from after only two weeks.
Got a job as a model just to pay the bills, but ended up modeling and working as an assistant to her agent for over 8 years—this experience opened the door for her to start photographing models.
She moved to Los Angeles to accept a job working for an acting manager, but it only lasted a few months because she hated it—decided now was the time to become a full-time photographer.
Made the move to Dallas, Texas where she set up a photography studio located in the Dallas Design District and is now an esteemed professional headshot, portrait, and fashion photographer.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
Photographer
I photograph people for advertising and self-promotion.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Art
Entrepreneurship
Being Creative
Day to Day
I have a very fast-paced work environment and things are constantly changing. I always have to be ready to adapt or change things up. I also do a lot of physical labor by setting up and moving equipment. I have to maintain a high level of energy throughout the day.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Invest in a good camera and bring it with you EVERYWHERE.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Myself:
"I'm too scared to ask for help."
Challenges I Overcame
Job Loss
Interviewed By
Room to Grow
Texas high schoolers choose their education focus
