Meet Kim
Fifteen years ago, Kim was a single mom, working as the membership director of the local chamber of commerce, and living paycheck to paycheck. She was a creative at heart, but couldn't figure out what to do with her creative itch. One day, during a ribbon cutting at a local wedding shop, Kim had her light bulb moment, “Maybe I should be a wedding photographer.”
On a “wing and a prayer” (as Kim puts it), she booked her first wedding for $150.00. No prior experience, no prior knowledge. Although she wouldn't suggest this route for others, it was the path catapulted her towards her success today. Within a year, she met Josh Moates, co-owner and business partner with Kim Box Photography. By the time she met Josh, the name had stuck so they stuck with it too. Together, they have built 3 photography divisions, a team of photographers, and employ almost 20 people.
Kim is now married to Danny Brown, a retired firefighter and her best friend. From Kim: “I’m married to the sweetest fireman. He spent 22 years taking care of strangers and now spends his days taking care of our little family. Like most firemen, he has a servant heart and is an amazing cook…I think food is one of his love languages. I couldn't do what I do without him quietly working behind the scenes. I get the credit, but we are a team!”
Together, Kim and Danny have 4 boys and 1 girl, who they love dearly.
A sucker for the sentimental, Kim’s heart shines through every photo she takes as she looks for the raw moments that will last in your memory. She attributes her sentiment to her Daddy who carried that same spirit of kindness and love.
Kim: “I hope that because of my Daddy, my legacy one day will be, that I helped create beautiful memories of a time that was precious and captured people that are loved and missed.”
What is your biggest inspiration?
In life, Without a doubt, my daddy. He was special. Just ask anyone that knew him,. He passed away 13 years ago, and I can say there’s not a thing that I do, or decision that I make, that I don’t hear him whisper in my ear.
Photography wise... I really love old black and white family photos. Still so beautiful and classic, even after a 100 years have passed. I think thats why I’m so in love black and white photography. I hope that my work and my clients portraits stand the test of time, and are passed down for generations. I really worry about social media/smart phone generation not having printed photographs to carry on after we are gone.
What are you other passions besides photography?
Hmmm, I love interior design. Home is my favorite place to be. I love simple, clean lines and neutral colors. I think that comes across in my photography work as well.
What animal would you be and why?
oh goodness...maybe a cat...Im pretty independent, and I need some alone time occasionally.
What can we catch you doing in your spare time? Hobbies?
Again, Im a home body, I love to be at home with a meal cooking on the stove and a good movie. Lately I have been thinking that I need a hobby. I love camping, but dont make time to go enough.
What is your favorite color?
Black of course :) Its my uniform, You can dress it up or dress it down, and hides a multitude of flaws.
What is your favorite tv show?
Currently This is Us,
My guilty pleasure is Bravo, Its mindless TV and lets me turn my brain off.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Oh wow...probably parenting advice from my daddy. After raising two girls, his friends would ask him how to handle certain challenging parenting situations, and his answer was always..."Just love them." Now when there are days that make me want to pull my hair out, or my kids make a mistake... I hear that little voice in my head... "Just love them."
Cats or dogs?
Well. Currently I have my daughters Golden retriever is living IN my house. I was totally opposed. And there is hair everywhere... but he is such a good dog, and so smart and love-able. He truly thinks he’s a little boy.
If you weren't a photographer, what would you do?
I think a home builder. My sweet grandmother probably built 30 houses in my life, and I grew up on a home site. I’ve always wanted to get my license, I’m really proud of the house my husband and I built a few years ago. I have champagne taste on a beer budget. I think with some creativity, sometimes you can build something better and more unique for less. I may do that one day. Any one want me to hire me?
What is your favorite word?
Nostalgia:
It's delicate but potent. In Greek, "nostalgia" literally means "the pain from an old wound." Its a twinge in your heart far more powerful than memory alone -a feeling of a place where we ache to go again.
Which store would you like to max out your Credit Card?
I’m not really a shopper, but I love good linens, and furniture.
Did you have a childhood nickname?
My daddy called me kimbo, my CB handle was "little bit"... any one even know what a CB is anymore?
Sweet or salty?
DO I HAVE TO CHOOSE?
Any strange phobias?
funny enough... I hate being in front of the camera, but i know how important it is, so Im working to get over that.