Feature #77: Brittani J. McKay, Wedding/Portrait Photographer

Name: Brittani J. McKay

Current Job Position Title: Wedding/Portrait Photographer

Company Name: Just B McKay Photography

Contact Information: justbmckay@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/justbmckayphotography

Special skills:
Communicating through photography. Sometimes, as an artist I can't always verbalize my thoughts, so I communicate through images. Helping individuals see the beauty in themselves, and making others happy.

Describe your job story:
I've always loved taking photos and finding the beauty in things that many people overlook, but actually being a photographer, NO WAY! I went to the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB), where I studied Biomedical Science for 3 years. My Sophomore year, I had the opportunity to enroll in a photography course and I loved it. Unfortunately, during this time I also, experienced the loss of my uncle, who was like a father to me, and that photography course seemed to be the only thing that could keep my focus during this time.

One day my Professor critiqued my work and suggested that I major in Photography and in my head I was like "Sir! I am not going to be a Photographer!", but my Senior year, something in me decided to apply to the fine arts program (Yes, 5 months before graduation lol) and the day I applied, I got accepted. From there, I began blogging photos just for my own pleasure and I stayed in school for another year minoring in Photography, not knowing that, that blog would have allowed me to start a business.

What did you want to be when you were a child/ teenager?

I wanted to be a Pediatrician. I always knew I wanted to be a doctor and I absolutely love children so it just made the most sense. Even to this day I'm still considering Medical School.

Are doing your dream job?
Somewhat. I also, work at a pharmacy, during the slow photography seasons, and I feel so unavailing during these periods, but when I am photographing I feel much more free and effective.

What do you like MOST about what you do? What do you like the LEAST?

I love the fact that I get to capture moments that can be cherished forever. I love the fact that, through images, I can give someone hope in love, I love the fact that I can interact with individuals with different cultures, from different walks of life and allow people to be themselves with no restrictions. What I like least is that so many people think all you do is point a camera at a pretty object and thats it. Many times I hear folks say "How hard can it be to just take a picture?" or "I can be a photographer. You just press a button and that's it!". I wish that was all.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
Honestly, probably back in school. I love to learn and I can totally see myself teaching children photography.

Are you happy with where you are in life?

I am grateful for the season that God is allowing me to experience, but I never want to be stagnant, There is always room for growth.

What more do you want to do with your life?

I want to literally live life to the fullest. No Fear, no restrictions, no excuses! I mean, we only get one life to live, so why not make the best of it. I just want to make a difference in at least one person's life and find God's purpose for my life.

What drives/motivates you?

Seeing people happy and good friends.

What else do you do?
Confuse people!! (I'm an identical twin) lol

What is your advice to those who are seeking employment and have no hope?

Pray and be patience. Many times, we get so wrapped up in what we want and how we think things should be going, that we truly forget that God has you just where you are for a reason. Often, it's for us to humble ourselves and/or to increase our faith in Him...I'm learning both. :)