Today we’d like to introduce you to Kat Waterman.
Kat, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been into the arts. I loved drawing, painting, pottery, all of it! But it wasn’t until college when I started seriously getting into the digital arts: photography and graphic design. My first photography class I ever took was in Florence, Italy while studying abroad. Seven years later, I’m still pushing myself to learn new techniques and to be the best photographer and graphic designer that I can be…. while also having fun along the way.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
In general, yeah, being a gay woman of color, I’ve been pretty fortunate to not have encountered disastrous pot holes in my journey, but I will admit there are always small challenges I’m faced with from time to time. I’m no expert on how to follow your dream career, but based on my own personal experience these are the three things I would recommend having with you at all times:
1) Make sure you believe in yourself and enjoy what you’re doing. Because no matter what outside influences are bringing you down, there will be nothing or no one that can put out your flame as you go forth.
2) Motivate yourself to keep learning, never stay stagnant in life… the world is constantly moving forward and it’s your responsibility to not get left behind, no one else’s. Go at your own pace though, it’s completely ok and necessary to give yourself a break from time to time.
3) Have a great support system whether it be a best friend and/or family member(s)… make sure you have someone to help you get out of your head and to bounce ideas off of. You’re gonna need it!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about your business – what should we know?
I am a freelance photographer, graphic designer, and artist. I currently specialize in concert/performance, landscape, portrait, and event photography… but I am still broadening my horizons. I’m actually just starting to dip my toe into videography realm… but one step at a time. In terms of designing, I specialize in branding and poster/advertising design. And for the artist side, it’s mostly wood burning and painting.
I am proud of the fact that I have the opportunity to use my artistic skills to help other people who are trying to make it in the world too, whether it be an artist, musician, singer, dancer, chef, etc. There are so many people who have the ability and drive to bring communities together and to bring positive things into this world, but they may not have the proper marketing material to get them started…that’s why I do what I do. That’s ultimately my brand goal.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Like I said previously:
1) Believe in yourself.
2) Don’t stay stagnant in life.
3) Have a solid support system.
And one more thing, DO NOT be afraid to ask questions or to reach out for help. You do not have to do EVERYTHING on your own to prove a point, there are people and resources out there to help you get started. Be open, honest, and remember networking is your best tool.
Contact Info:
- Website: katwaterman.com
- Phone: 860-237-0038
- Email: katwatermanofficial@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katwatermanofficial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kwphotodesign/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/kwPhotoDesign
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynwaterman/
Image Credit:
Kat Waterman, LLC
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