the girl behind the camera
Call me Katie
Cause referring to me as KM4 makes me sound like a robot or an app. And addressing me as Katharine Mary the fourth sounds a little too formal for someone who tumbles around with a camera and plays ring-around-the-rosie with kids for a living.
The Beginning
When I went to study abroad in college, I knew my iPhone camera wouldn’t cut it, so I bought my first real camera – after that you couldn’t catch me anywhere without it! I wanted to remember the details of every solo-trip, family gathering, and friend hangout. When a friend asked me to take photos of their little family, I was smitten. Capturing my own life was one thing, but there was something infinitely rewarding about capturing someone else’s.
The Why
My family are the most important people in my life, and for a while I lived quite a distance away from them - and this was really hard. Living away from them showed me just how important it is to be connected with my family and to document the precious details of our time together.
The Now
Now I’m… for lack of better words…living my best life! I get to do something crazy wonderful for a living and hang out with the cutest families on earth, documenting their memoirs. When I'm not romping around with a camera, you can find me scoping out dogs at the local parks, enjoying a good read, or discussing the pros and cons of every type of French cheese.
Katie's Greatest Hits
You know those few things that really just define you as a person? You know, like your greatest hits? Mine are below. And while I wish I could say I was the kind of girl whose greatest hits include the trendiest new clothes, an immaculate self-care routine, and vegetables, that's just not me. You win some, you lose some, you know?
Here's a lil secret:
My worst fear is a child that sits and smiles nicely at the camera for an entire session.
No, really. I have nightmares about this. I'm willing to bet your life isn't perfectly posed and curated, so your photos shouldn't be either. My family photography thrives on one word: connection. I strive to capture your unique family dynamics and the connection your family shares with each other. And that isn't done through "sit and smile" sessions. Nope - we play, we laugh, we tickle, and we enjoy our time together. And I'll know I've done my job right when you see your photos, gasp, and say "Wow! That photo is so *insert your kiddo's name*."
Defying the passing of time and keeping memories alive
My full name is Katharine Mary, and I happen to be the fourth woman in my family to carry that name (hence KM4). I love the heritage of my name and the tradition being passed down from generation to generation - a little shared secret that belongs to us. Just like the legacy of my name, the photos I capture and the albums and artwork they become a story that will be passed down through generations- to children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors, and loved ones. Every tickle, sweet kiss, and moment of unbridled joy that passes in front of my camera is kept alive. These moments, just like my name, will remain a timeless reminder of the journey that was taken to get you where you are now.
And in my personal opinion, what could be more beautiful than that?
Welcoming Families of All Abilities
At KM4Photography, every family is valued, respected, and celebrated—exactly as they are.
With a background in pediatric speech-language pathology, I bring years of experience supporting children with a wide range of developmental, communication, and sensory needs. I understand that photo sessions can feel overwhelming for some kids, especially those who are neurodivergent, disabled, or have different ways of interacting with the world.
That's why every session is designed to be flexible, patient, and centered around your family’s unique needs. Whether that means taking more time to ease into the space, using sensory-friendly approaches, following your child's lead, or simply being open to breaks, I’ve got you.
There is no pressure to pose or “perform.” We’ll create a space where your child can be authentically themselves—and where your family’s real connection shines through.
KM4Photography is a safe and inclusive space for all children and families, including those with autism, ADHD, physical disabilities, speech or language differences, and beyond.
You are welcome here. Always.
"KATIE WAS HIGHLY ORGANIZED, CREATIVE AND FUN. I CANNOT SAY ENOUGH POSITIVE THINGS ABOUT KATIE AND HER WORK. SHE’S PERFECT FOR A BUSY FAMILY WHO WANTS HIGH QUALITY, PERSONAL PHOTOS IN A FUN AND ENGAGING SETTING."
-HOLLY W.
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