Meet Katie Buckman: Fine Art Nature & Floral Photographer, Momma & Wife

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Buckman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, how do you think about risk?
I will be the first to admit that I tend to lead with my heart first. And by that I don’t mean that I don’t make educated decisions, I weigh the pros and cons – but I also trust my gut despite doing things that others may not.

When I was preparing to leave my hometown for the first time, someone told me I should wait a year. I moved 6 months later. As hard as it was, it was the right move to make. Every risk I have taken has taught me about my abilities to be resilient and I do anything I set my mind to.

Not being afraid to take risks has also left me with very few career regrets. I have tried things that I was interested in and not felt that I had to choose just one career. It has also lead me into a career in the arts using all the knowledge that I have gained. If you want to achieve something, you have to do it – go all in. Ending your days full of regrets isn’t worth it for your soul or your heart.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a Fine Art Nature and Floral Photographer inspired by classical paintings. In my work, I am to help the viewer feel connected to nature in a calming way. I’ve always spent so much time outside looking for the little things that most miss. I love to remind others that Mother Nature needs us as much as we need her.

I have such an obsession with Flowers. They are all so unique and different that you can’t help but learn about yourself as you watch them grown and even care for them.

As I have been a lifelong creative, it’s always something that I have done but it wasn’t until I became a mom that I dared to test the waters more. My business is something that I have built little by little as different opportunities arose through naps and sometimes late nights. I don’t think that anything you want to happen is easy, but reminding yourself daily of the ultimate goal, the desire to succeed, keeps you going.

I have a strong desire to learn and constantly grow. I love that my children have grown up watching me learn and create right along with them. I aim to make them proud everyday.

I grew up as a mixed kid in the 80’s and 90’s. I also have to work a little harder than others to remain focused and to grasp information. Because of that, I am built to push hard and to tackle adversity which pushes me now to conquer any challenge that is in my way. “No” is not the final answer “I can’t” is not something that you will hear me say.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I know that this is an LA Column – but I just moved from the Pacific Northwest (PNW) – Seattle area to Denver so I gotta give a shoutout to those areas.

In Seattle – Let’s take a trip. Please take a ferry out to Whidby Island and spend a day on the shore. Visit the small town there and dip your toes in the (cold) water. Take a drive back to Seattle VIA deception Pass. Park and get out, it is a beautiful view and you can even take a hike! BTW, it is harder than it looks but worth it. DO IT!

Head to the city and head to West Seattle where you can get a fantastic view of downtown at Alki Beach. But if you want “THE” shot of downtown Seattle, head to Kerry Park in the Queen Anne Neighborhood. If you want to watch Seaplanes come in and out at an iconic spot – head to Gasworks Park. Bring a picnic and stay awhile – it is such a delight.

Yes, Seattle rains most of the year till the end of spring – but oh my, spring/summer is such a delight that the rain is WORTH IT! The gardens there and the florals are so beautiful. Shhhh – please don’t tell them I sent you. I miss it so.

In Denver – Did I mention this is our 3rd time here? Yes, it is true. Hopefully, it sicks this time!

Yes, we have a lot of Mexican restaurants here but I love the “Mellow Mushroom” for pizza here. If you want a classic and cult Mexican restaurant – look no further than Casa Bonita. It is an event, to say the least.

The Botanical Garden is a beautiful and affordable place to visit right in the city – which is important because parking is not the most fun. Please visit Garden of the Gods & Red Rocks to really get a feel for why Denver is so amazing.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband has always been supportive of my need to photograph everything. He will keep the kids walking knowing that I am usually photographing something and will catch up later. The best part is that I know he will always give me honest feedback, not just what I want to hear.

Jamie Beck, a beautiful photographer living in France, opened my eyes up to a whole new world of photography I didn’t even know. I can’t thank her enough for the constant inspiration she gives.

Heymama is an organization for mama’s who are conquering the world while juggling life and children. It is such a supportive community that always is there to help you in any way they can. I have met so many tremendous Women that are doing all the things. It is an inspiration in real-time.

I have a group of artists friends that support me every day through the ups and downs of pursuing a creative life. They are my team, my co-workers and some of the best people I’ve ever known.

And I love to read – the list of books and courses that has inspired is neverending (seriously, growing by the day!)

Website: https://evergreenandaspen.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evergreenandaspen/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evergreenandaspen

Other: Minted.com: https://www.minted.com/store/kbuckmanphoto