Squarespace Website Design For Photographer & Writer

Jan 3

Kristine Cramer came to us wanting a laid back, yet modern and refined brand for her photography and writing business! We showcased her work and her words using our Curate Template for Squarespace with our Restyle Service. Her two biggest inspiration points were Ralph Lauren and Levi’s and we said HECK YES!

We’re cheering Kristine on for business growth from her new site design and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next. Read her interview below to read her inspiring story on how and why she started this business!

“Learning from others is great, but know that their feedback and ‘constructive criticism’ is truly just their opinion and style.”

GO LIVE: WHERE DID YOUR PASSION FOR THE INDUSTRY OR CRAFT START?

Kristine: Years ago I worked doing custom framing in an art gallery and the owner was one of the best and most sought after photographers in town. I loved seeing the work and projects that were happening in the studio and knew that's what I wanted to ultimately do.

GO LIVE: DID YOUR EDUCATION HELP PREPARE YOU FOR THE INDUSTRY OR FOR STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? OR ARE YOU SELF-TAUGHT?

Kristine: Actually both! I started out being self taught and trained on the job by a couple great photographers as I worked framing and at the photo lab developing film. After a few years I really desired to go deeper in my education and made the move to California from Wisconsin to pursue my photography degree. I finished with a degree in photography, studio art and art history...many of the classes talked about the business of art. And though I am happy I pursued my degrees I think continuing education is important in the ever evolving photography industry...I'm a life long learner for sure..

GO LIVE: WHAT’S THE HARDEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN YOUR BUSINESS?

Kristine: Back in the beginning I received many comments about how it's a mans industry and it would "be hard" for a women to work in it. That's changed SO much over the last two decades! But more currently I think it's about getting comfortable with narrowing your niche and figuring out who your ideal client really is.

GO LIVE: WHAT DO YOU WISH SOMEONE WOULD HAVE TOLD YOU WHEN YOU STARTED OUT?

Kristine: That learning from others is great but know that their feedback and "constructive criticism" is truly just their opinion and style. And while that kind of input absolutely can help you learn and grow as an artist, you need to find your own true style and what you are happy putting out in the world. Each of us and our work won't be for everyone...and that's okay!

GO LIVE: WHAT WAS THE MOMENT YOU HAD WHEN YOU SAID, “I SHOULD DO THIS” OR WHAT MADE YOU TAKE THE JUMP INTO WORKING FOR YOURSELF?

Kristine: Earlier in 2019 my amazing husband was killed by a reckless driver on his commute to work. He was my biggest cheerleader and believed I could accomplish anything I wanted to work for. He had been encouraging me to take the leap for years. Losing him was a huge reality check that none of us are guaranteed tomorrow and seriously...if not now, when?

GO LIVE: WHAT THINGS HAVE YOU GAINED / DO YOU HOPE TO GAIN IN YOUR LIFE FROM FOLLOWING THIS DREAM?

Kristine: Ultimately, I want to build a business and career that would make my husband proud. I want the opportunity to give back to causes close to my heart with my work and make a difference to others in this world. And of course have an outlet for creativity and self expression through my images and my writing.

GO LIVE: WHY DID YOU ULTIMATELY DECIDE TO WORK WITH US FOR YOUR RESTYLE OR CUSTOM DESIGN?

Kristine: I had seen Promise on a Creative Live class years ago and loved what was happening at GoLive. I love your style, vibe and ideas. I signed up for emails and social and followed along for years before finally taking the leap. I only wish I would have done it sooner!