“It’s important for people to feel comfortable being themselves in front of me and the camera in order to capture their individual energy.”
It all started when…
SOULDEGA: When did you first start with Photography?
MCKAYLA: I’ve been doing photography since high school. I became fascinated with the idea that you can capture a subject or a setting with your own perspective. I also loved shooting people and capturing their essence and confidence on camera. .
SOULDEGA: How would you describe your style of shooting?
MCKAYLA: I would describe my style as sultry, warm and nostalgic. I try to evoke emotion from an image through my editing style and directing the shoot.
SOULDEGA: Who are you're top three photographers that you admire and how have they inspired your work?
MCKAYLA: The first one is easy – my sister @brynnakathleenphoto is a wedding photographer in Seattle (brynnakathleenphotography) and she’s always inspired me with her ability to capture strong emotions in her work. I can tell that she makes people feel comfortable and confident and it shines through in her photos! As far as style goes, there are several photographers that I use as inspiration for editing and styling my photos. One being Valeria Dellisanti(@valleria_dellisanti). She uses warm light and a feminine style to her portrait photos which I love. Another is Jay Sprogell(@jaysprogell). He uses film and his edits are incredible. He also creates gif’s which are fun! He’s an artist.
SOULDEGA: Is there a particular camera you like to shoot with?
MCKAYLA: I use a fuji film xt10, and for film I shoot on an Olympus ax2 35mm.
SOULDEGA: We notice your attention to female subjects and sensuality. :) What is your approach in bringing out the best from the subject?
MCKAYLA: It’s important for people to feel comfortable being themselves in front of me and the camera in order to capture their individual energy. I’ll have them share their own inspiration for photos, put on some fun (usually sexy) jams, direct them with poses and just have fun with it! We’re always laughing and hyping each other up in a session.
SOULDEGA: If you were hired for a last minute shoot in Paris, Who or what would be the subjects and what would the overall feeling of the shoot reflect?
MCKAYLA: Paris is a romantic city, so I would love to capture a couple enjoying each other and focus on their infatuation and connection to one another. The feeling of the shoot would be intimate and sensual.