Three Years Behind the Lens
My Story
Three years ago, I picked up a camera with curiosity, a little bit of doubt, and no real idea of where it would take me.
But if I’m being completely honest… three years ago, I was just a stay-at-home mom trying to find myself again.
And if you’re a mom, you might understand this feeling.
I felt like *Kaydrianna*—just me—was so far down in a hole. For a while, I didn’t really know who I was outside of being “the boys’ mom.” And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Being their mom is the most important thing in my life.
But I started to realize… moms need something for themselves too.
Something that brings them back to who they are.
Whether that’s painting, working out, singing… for me, that became photography.
I’ve always been obsessed with taking pictures and editing them. There was something about it that just clicked for me. Taking an image where the lighting wasn’t perfect, the colors felt muted—and then transforming it into something that *pops*, something that feels alive… I fell in love with that process.
That curiosity turned into passion. And that passion turned into purpose.
For those who are new here—my name is Kaydrianna Steele. I’m a photographer based in Sidney,MT, and when I’m not behind the camera, I’m at home with my two precious boys who inspire everything I do.
Some days look like editing during nap time, answering messages in between snacks, or packing up my gear while making sure my boys are ready to come along. And sometimes, they do come to sessions with me. Not because it’s always easy—but because it matters to me that they see their mom chasing something she loves. I want them to grow up knowing they can do the same.
When I look back on these past three years, it honestly feels surreal.
I’ve completed **248 sessions**—and I’m proud of every single one. Even the ones from the very beginning… the ones where I look back at my editing now and question everything a little bit. But those sessions mattered. They were part of the growth, the learning, and becoming the photographer I am today.
Over time, my approach has become very *me* soft but bold, and true to tone. I’m very go-with-the-flow during sessions. If the kids are being wild? That’s okay. Let them be. Those are the moments that turn into the most beautiful, real images. I’m not here to force perfection—I’m here to capture connection.
And some of my favorite moments haven’t just been about the photos themselves.
I think about a picnic-themed session I did—after everything was finished, we didn’t just pack up and leave. We sat together around the charcuterie board, talking, laughing, just enjoying each other’s company. Moments like that remind me that this is so much more than photography.
It’s about people.
It’s about relationships.
Some of my clients have turned into friendships where we’ll get together just because—no session planned, no camera needed. And honestly, that means everything to me.
This past year, I also stepped into something that once felt intimidating—**wedding photography**.
I was nervous. It felt like such a big step. But I finally pushed myself, and I officially photographed **three weddings** this year.
And wow… I fell in love with it.
There’s something so powerful about being part of a couple’s day. The emotions, the quiet moments, the energy—it’s beautiful in a way I can’t fully explain. Yes, it’s nerve-wracking. But it’s also one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done.
Another unexpected and meaningful part of this year has been mentoring beginner photographers.
Being able to pour into others, to help them learn, grow, and find their own style—it’s been so rewarding. It’s reminded me of where I started, and it’s shown me just how important community really is.
And that’s something I’ve come to love deeply—the photography community around me.
The support, the encouragement, the shared passion… it’s something special. Having people around you who understand the creative side, the struggles, and the wins—it makes this journey even more meaningful.
These three years haven’t been perfect. There have been moments of doubt, times I questioned myself, and times I wondered if I was good enough.
But I kept going.
And now, I can confidently say I’ve built something I’m proud of.
To everyone who has trusted me, supported me, booked with me, or simply followed along—thank you. You’ve been part of every step of this journey.
And to my boys—you are my constant reminder of why I started.
Three years ago, I was trying to find myself again
And somewhere along the way… I did.
Three years down… and I know this is only the beginning.
