I specialize in my own eclectic yet classic, familiar yet innovative style of photography. I go with my gut and my favorite moments are pure joy that I usually didn’t even plan. I am Kara Proehl, and portrait photography is my business. After a 3 year hiatus from weddings to enter the world of fashion photography, I am back in 2024 and better than ever!!

My Background

I began my exploration of electronic media on the cusp of the "digital revolution", earning a degree in Electronic Arts at Missouri State University. My emphasis was in audio production. I wanted to be a rock star, but assumed the only way I would get there was working behind the scenes, recording real rock stars. I spent some time working at a recording studio in Nashville. The work was interesting, but the solitary indoor work atmosphere and high profile clients quickly helped me to realize that what I really love is simple real life: laughing, relationships - and sunshine!  One morning, after years of jobs that did not light up my heart, I woke up from a dream with an unforgettable gut feeling to go buy a camera, and start a photography business. The urge was so strong that I couldn't deny it.  I made the purchase and started taking pictures. Opportunities started flowing in! Less than a month after I bought the camera, I booked my first wedding and I never looked back.  I am self taught and I have been passionately photographing full time with my business for over 10 years. After hundreds of weddings and countless stories and experiences, the passion and drive I possess to make every shoot my best grows exponentially.

I currently work full time in the fashion industry as the in-house photographer for Glik’s Clothing Stores, a national boutique with over 70 locations. I love my job!

My Style

I describe my style of photography as warm, shiny, true, with a touch of slightly surreal. Expressions that are personal and real. I want you to see your loved one's face do that little thing that you know. My goal is to get the best shot in the most fun and discreet way. My job is physically and mentally demanding, and therefore I insist upon being in the best state of wellness, body and mind, as a requirement and a responsibility to myself and my clients. I am an active member of  PPA (Professional Photographers of America) and continue both an online and practical photography education. You can read the PPA member’s Code of Ethics by clicking HERE to see the standards I hold myself and my photographers to at all times. Every session is a new experience and I must be prepared to roll with anything, from riding the BART in San Francisco with all of my gear to my hotel to pizza guys stealing my parking spot at Kiener Plaza on a fast paced wedding day, to hauling furniture and props around at an outdoor family session. It is ALWAYS an honor to join your family and capture those memories of the moment in the most beautiful way.

Me Behind the Scenes
When I am not behind the camera (or computer) I like being outside, listening to good music, and laughing with great people.  Nature photography is my version of a never ending treasure hunt. You can see some of my fun time work here. I enjoy sharing excellent food, coffee, trips and talks, especially with my favorite people, and my best little friend, my corgi Pep Pep. Family, friends, real smiles, and meaning in my heart are what life is all about. Money is just a way to get more time with them. I believe every client has been divinely guided to me and I will be interviewing you just as much as you are interviewing me when we have our consultation. I am available worldwide, I dare you to book me somewhere I have not been before! Let’s go!

Featured in:

ALIVE Magazine

Bokeh Magazine

Borrowed & Blue

FStoppers

OLift Magazine

Saint Louis Bride Magazine

Town & Country Magazine

Wedding of the Year Nominee STL Wedding Awards 2015

DESTINATION WEDDINGS
Bartlett, IL
Calistoga, CA
Can Cun, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Chicago, IL
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Miami, FL
Napa, CA
New Haven, IN
Oregon, IL
Pigeon Forge, TN
San Jose, CA
St. Helena, CA