By : Caroline Morris
Upon first viewing Kaye Murphy ’ s photography , you would never guess that she has only been doing it for three years . Her photography has the feel of an old soul , and there is a wiseness that comes through in every picture . Kaye describes her photography as “ dreamy , hip , and constantly evolving , but so very much my own .” And when you see her pictures , I am sure you will agree with her . Kaye started out playing around taking pictures of her family , yet turned into a true artist in such a short amount of time . She can take your breath away both in the pictures she takes and the pictures taken of her . Though she may not consider herself a model , she is just as wonderful in front of the camera as she is behind it . It is all these things about Kaye that we here at FIVE would like to celebrate , as we sadly must watch her move on from Pensacola .
Describe the role of fashion in your work .
Fashion is such a huge part of my life , so , naturally , it plays a huge role in my photography . I try to insert my own personal style into my shoots and often style whole sessions on my own . I think that including so much of my own preference of trends into my photos helps my work stand out .
What gives you the most inspiration for your art ?
I ’ d have to say music like Bon Iver , Copeland , Bright Eyes , and Lydia . Music has always had such a powerful effect on me ; it ’ s such a huge motivation .
Describe your dream shoot .
Either the Olsen twins or Katy Perry . frolicking through Paris in the most spectacular of outfits . That or something Marie Antoinette inspired .
I ’ ve seen shoots of you modeling that are absolutely beautiful . Do you enjoy being in front of the camera just as much as being behind it ?
First , thank you for the sweet compliment . I certainly wouldn ’ t say I ’ m a model by any means , haha . But being a photographer , I am pretty aware of my body and how to move in a way that is flattering and will look good in photos . But lets be honest , I ’ ve only done this with Jessi Field and Sarah Lee Williams . Those girls are the only ones that have broken down my wall .
You and Jessi do some amazing work together . With so many photographers unwilling to collaborate with each other , what is it that makes you work so well together ?
I have always been an advocate of befriending fellow photographers . I don ’ t see the point in shutting anyone out ! It ’ s not productive , and , well , it ’ s just plain mean . I think just the fact that we are nice to each other allows us to connect on a level that so many people are missing out on . It ’ s easy to bounce ideas and sync up to work together when you aren ’ t trying to compete .
What will you miss the most about photography in Florida ?
What won ’ t I miss ? I will miss everything about this place . Mostly though , I will miss the people . I have made so many great friends here . I love every one of them to tiny baby pieces . I ’ ll be back though , so don ’ t be strangers , guys .
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers in the area ?
Always stay true to who you are as an artist . So many people these days are cranking out work that doesn ’ t even represent them on a personal level . Don ’ t give in to anyone else just because they think your work is unacceptable . Doing what you love the way you want to is easily the best thing you can do for yourself .
While we are extremely sad that Kaye will not be in the area all the time anymore , luckily she will be coming back to do weddings with Jessi Field . In the words of Kaye , “ If anyone is in the market for a fantastic , indie , eclectic wedding team , holler at us and we will hook you up !” Please give this lady even more of a reason to come back and visit us !
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