Instagram connection turned into a repeat client

Last September, while browsing Instagram for local hotels to collaborate with on a new project, I came across a page for a motel in Red Hook, NY called Reclaimed Motel. I instantly fell in love with the space and the story of the couple who built it from the ground up. Before I could even reach out one of the owners, Kendra, messaged me first.

We immediately connected and decided to work together to create images that reflected the vintage inspired aesthetic of the motel they’ve so thoughtfully designed. I’d been wanting to photograph a hospitality space for a while, and this turned out to be the perfect first paid opportunity. We set a date, and I spent two days photographing the newly designed rooms and common spaces they’ve brought to life.

This was my first project of its kind, and while it was exciting, it also came with challenges. I was tasked with photographing ten rooms and a communal space capturing both traditional real estate images and more lifestyle driven, detailed photographs. Kendra and Jared, the couple behind Reclaimed Motel, were such kind and trusting clients who welcomed me into the space they had so thoughtfully created together.

Almost a year later, they reached out again this time to document a new chapter in their lives. They had just welcomed their first baby and were in the process of renovating a Victorian home for their growing family. I spent a few hours with them, photographing moments of love and connection in their new space.

I decided to shoot part of the session on film, wanting to create images that would truly last timeless keepsakes of this special stage in their lives. Capturing the couple with their new baby and the grandparents in the midst of their renovation was such a treasure. I spent the day simply observing, documenting their warmth, excitement, and the sense of home they’re building together.

After I delivered the gallery, they were so happy with how I captured them. A few weeks later, Kendra reached out to ask if I could photograph a listing she had recently gotten her real estate license. Since I’ve been working for a real estate photography company since last October, I felt confident and excited to work with them again.

This past year has proven to me how important it is to build connections like this, and how incredible social media can be for connecting with clients and other creatives.