If you are not inspired by the people around you then you’re not living well. Kara Coleen is one of those women who’s sense of adventure, talent, heart and authenticity inspire me to be a better human. We have always connected over our island roots, yoga, mutual best friend and changing careers for our passion. In another life she was a health exec, like myself. Now she’s a well known photographer who will make you shine from within!
Get to know this powerhouse human, book her and follow her at @karacoleen
What I’m know for… Lifestyle Portraiture Photography
I’m currently reading… Easy Spanish, Step by Step
What does “ Elevated Living” mean to you? To live with intention and purpose, and to take creative control over the narrative of your journey. You can decide how you show up in the world. There’s living and there’s Elevated living. Elevated Living is the path to self-love, acceptance, alignment and powerful manifestation.
What keeps your spirit alive? Curiosity… I’ve experienced depression throughout most of my life, which can sometimes feel like you’re trapped in a room with no windows and an unlocked door that you just don’t feel like opening. I always open the door though. Sometimes it leads me to another room; other times an amazing new client, a beautiful yoga flow, a delicious meal with friends or an incredibly life-changing trip to Nicaragua. The unknown is scary, but it’s full of possibilities. I stay curious and it’s served me well.
Most cherished item of clothing? A sweater my dad got me a few years ago during a trip to Canada. I didn’t wear it for a long time because I thought it was too weird looking, too different from the styles I’ve seen. Then I just started to “own it.” I still get lots of compliments!
Favorite quote? Wherever you go, go with all your heart.
Advice to my younger self: You get one life. It’s a beautiful mess and it’s yours. Stop inviting so many other people into your journey and letting them define what that life should look like. They have their own beautiful mess to worry about. Live more authentically and unapologetically. Do things that scare you, love fiercely, fight the good fights, let go when it’s time. Forgive yourself. Love yourself.
If I wasn’t “a photographer” I would be… A writer. I love telling people’s stories through my photography but I also love sharing my own story through writing.
Style Icon? Audrey Hepburn. There was no space for her in Hollywood when she got there. She didn’t fit the ideals of beauty at the time, too skinny and not considered sexy. But instead of being dissuaded by this, with the help of Costume Designer Edith Head and Designer Hubert de Givenchy, she just made Hollywood bigger. Moral of the story: If there’s no room for you, make room.
Who inspires you? Michelle Obama. She’s proof that life isn’t linear. You can come into your own at anytime, and it will be the right time. I and LOVING her glow up these past few years. It’s so inspiring
Visit her at www.KaraColeen.com