On Monday I got the usual email from the church with the upcoming events, and felt really convicted to email back and offer my services as a photographer to the church.  Diana emailed back almost immediately, passing my email through to the person responsible.  Alan phoned me, we set up a meeting, and that was it.  I was feeling quite excited about this, as I have been trying to figure out how I can best serve in the church, and to be honest, becoming part of the kids ministry was not something I wanted to do.

This morning, as I headed up the hill for my meeting, I felt so relaxed and was happy about the decision.  I met with Alan and Mel, and they asked if I had seen the notice on the notice board at church.  I said I hadn’t and had just sent the email through, which was amazing as they had just the week before posted an ad looking for someone to help in the team as a photographer!  God is amazing!

By the end of the meeting I was very excited, and so were they, and I am really feeling challenged to take this opportunity and really make the best of it.  I am also so happy that I can give back to God with the passion and gifting He has given to me.

Going to Salt Rock this weekend, so hoping to have some time to just relax and have fun through the lens…

Sandy Bigara: “Tell me, has photography always played a major role in your life?

Kim Swan: I have always loved taking photos, but Paul (my husband) really encouraged me, right from when we were dating.

Sandy Bigara: That’s awesome… that you have come so far! Tell me, what training have you had, has anyone helped build your skill and knowledge – because let’s face it – you know a lot!

Kim Swan: (laughs) Paul has been my technical teacher. He has helped me learn as much as possible about the art of photography, and the technical aspect of it as well. Through research: books, the internet, friends and fellow photographers.

Sandy Bigara: So how long has it been a serious focus for you?

Kim Swan: I’d say since about 2005 I have been taking it really seriously.

Sandy Bigara: OK, so that’s 5 years now, you’ve built up a steady collection of work, how did you get your first opportunity to “shoot” an event?

Kim Swan: A friend from work actually “promoted” me for a wedding, which was my first shoot ever. I fell in love with being there to capture the day, and being able to give people something to remember… I was also privileged enough to shoot his wedding too.

Sandy Bigara: Any favourite subject matter?

Kim Swan: I did some photo’s for a children’s party soon after that, and still somehow want to photograph them! There is something “fresh” about kids. Love it.

Sandy Bigara: OK, let’s talk equipment. A photographer is as good as his lens… or so they say. Are you set up for any type of Shoot?

Kim Swan: Paul has been amazing in getting me set up with equipment. We’ve done it little by little, and we have even set up a fully operational studio, which is fast becoming one of my favourite places to shoot! I am open to any venue or style of shoot, I’ve done traditional wedding shoots, children’s party shoots, studio and wild/crazy pregnancy shoots and I’m doing some brochure photography for a new beauty clinic soon. So yes, I’d like to think that all I need is an underwater camera!

Sandy Bigara: I heard through the grapevine that you have now “taken the jump” and are doing photography full time – is this true? If so – congrats to you!

Kim Swan: Having a supportive husband has made all the difference, Paul has given me a real gift, by offering me the opportunity to grab my dream with both hands. I’ve now stopped working in the formal sector and I’m now making my dream come true…for myself! I have already had so much positive feedback and recalls, the photography field is opening up to me and I am going to play it! Visit my Facebook page too.