Joint venture: Photographed by Taylor Photography

WILLIAMSBURG – Taylor Kennedy got her first camera as a child – then her hobby turned into a career as a professional photographer.

“When my father bought me my first camera, he put my greatest passion and my entire career in my hands, even though I was only 10 years old. I had no idea I would do this professionally, it was ‘just a hobby’ back then,” said Kennedy.

Taken by Taylor has been an “official” community business for almost four years.

Kennedy had done photo shoots for close friends over the years and while on maternity leave from her previous job, she thought it sounded like a good idea to earn “a few extra bucks” using her camera skills.

“I decided to really commit to photo shoots and got a lot more support from the community than I expected. So I decided to quit my 9-to-5 job and go into it full-time.”

The key to her success, says Kennedy, is capturing people in a way that portrays them authentically and naturally.

“Anyone can dress up and take a photo, but not every family can be yours. I love how each and every session is unique. I love seeing how full hearts can be, even when a little chaos gets in the way. It’s the real moments, the raw emotions, the true and real ‘now.'”

“I want you to not only look good, but also feel like yourself,” she added

And photography is much more than just the ability to operate a camera, Kennedy explains. Her skills as a stylist, lighting technician, location consultant and editor are all an important part of her process.

A Williamsburg native, Kennedy says the area offers the perfect natural backdrop for any group or event. She even prides herself on knowing some “super secret” local spots to get the perfect photos.

“I love meeting new people in this area and I love how strong and tight the community is. I love how clean it is here and how proud the community is of their own town. It’s the perfect place.”

Kennedy understands that the costs of choosing a photographer can be prohibitive.

To that end, Taken by Taylor recently lowered prices and adjusted its packages to meet current customer demand, but Kennedy said that won’t change their approach to quality or work ethic.

“I believe my customer service is a cut above other companies. I go above and beyond to make sure my clients arrive at their session knowing what to expect, what to wear, and how to prepare for the session overall,” Kennedy explained. “I truly care about each and every person who contacts me, even if they don’t end up booking with me. Many of my clients love how relaxed and natural my family sessions are.”

The majority of Taken by Taylor’s clientele consists of family, maternity and newborn sessions, as well as weddings.

“I want nothing more than to capture memories that can be passed down for generations.” Kennedy continued, “Nothing makes me feel better than the way I feel when I capture someone’s ‘first’ or perhaps ‘last.'”