WBM Features: KB Klicks

Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still.
-Dorthea Lange

Opportunity isn't something that one should wait to happen. For all we know, it could be taking place right now and because we're anticipating an indicator of some sort to tell us that this particular moment is what we've been waiting for, we ultimately end up missing out on so much. On the other hand, for those aware that opportunity is the result of our experience and what we make and/or take of how we respond to what happens around us success is nearby.

For one young lady from the mid-west, opportunity isn't something that she just waits around to happen--she makes it happen. And for KB Klicks, success is brought that much closer to her every time she captures a moment with her camera.

Taking the opportunity to see what the world is like through her eyes, WBM had a chance to have a one on one with Keonna Boone and discuss how if even one frame at a time she plans to impact the world.

[As Told To Why Blue Matters]

Who is KB Klicks?

I am a 25 year old emerging photographer and I developed my love for photography while attending Saint Louis University. I’m an avid photographer who has turned a hobby into a full-time endeavor. I am also the founder of K.B.Klicks Photography (www.kbklicks.com) and blogger behind strEAT ART (http://streatart.tumblr.com/).

I am a granny’s girl who is unapologetically outspoken with a huge heart.

I’d always desired to be an attorney, even as a child. The older I got and the more education I obtained, I realized I was increasingly displeased with the Justice system. I decided that I could not live my life on a chance that I may have to defend a guilty criminal who’s undeservingly set free or prosecute and send to jail (or death) the innocent. The weight of the matter was too heavy for me and while coming to terms with the fact that I may not become what I always thought I’d be, it took a while for it to dawn on me that a great deal of my time was being willingly spent in the photo lab.

I eventually realized what I really wanted to do with my life.

Where are you from?

KB Klicks: Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri.

Interest(s)?

KB Klicks: Besides photography, my interests include the following: God, life, my granny, my happiness, my career, music, family & friends, movies, art, law, social issues, intelligent conversation, graffiti, being in love w/ love (in that order).

Explain for those who may not know what you do for clients

KB Klicks: I will photograph almost anything for clients. I’m quite shutter happy. I currently photograph urban candids, in addition to portraits, conferences, and weddings.

What's your perspective on photography?

KB Klicks: It’s not always about what is seen on the surface. I always photograph by Aristotle’s concept: “The aim of art is not to represent the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”

Photography, for me, is immortal and necessary for when memory fails us. Photography is absolutely essential…words can only express so much.

What do you like most about it?

KB Klicks: I enjoy the entire process of photography. I love the creativity and passion that goes into a photograph. What I love most is the moment when I realize I’ve hit the mark and obtained what I set out to capture. It’s a satisfying and exhilarating feeling.

How long have you been involved?

KB Klicks: I’ve been actively involved in photography going on 3 years now…

What kind of camera do you shoot with?

KB Klicks: I shoot with a Canon AE-1, Canon EOS REBEL XS DSLR, and occasionally a Canon EOS 50D DSLR

What did you do before becoming a photographer?

KB Klicks: I was a college student and my time mainly consisted of school and working for the University as an office assistant, but I always managed to fit photography into my busy schedule as a hobby.

How important is lighting with your work?

KB Klicks: Very important. It’s one of the main elements that can be the difference between a horrible photo and an amazing one. Granted, most lighting issues can be corrected with Photoshop but without the appropriate lighting the photo can lose its intended effect.

What inspires and motivates you?

KB Klicks: Sometimes it’s the little things. I’ll see a hidden location in a park I hadn’t noticed before; a child playing in a pond; shadow on a headstone. Someone may even say a word or a phrase that sprouts an idea for a photo. I really never know what is going to trigger an inspiration so I always keep a notepad and pen to document what I see in my head. I just keep an open mind and let it flow…

But I also found that fear, in the beginning, was a great motivator and inspiration. That may sound odd, but I had such a great fear of failure and of disappointing my teachers and clients that it forced me to want to do better and be better at my craft. It forced me to look past what I thought was a perfect pretty picture and recognize the significance within it, even the flaws. I still get a little nervous before every shoot, but now my motivation is success and striving to achieve it with every photo.

Obviously, not everything needs such serious thought…and sometimes I enjoy being spontaneous. That too brings about magnificent images as well.

All of it has helped to make me who I am as a photographer.

Where do you prefer to shoot, in the studio or on location?

KB Klicks: Although the studio can provide a controlled environment, I actually prefer to shoot on location. Shooting in natural elements brings about a more authentic feel to the photograph for me.

What type of camera do you shoot with?

KB Klicks: Film (Canon AE-1) and DSLR (Canon EOS REBEL XS & Canon EOS 50D)

Biggest accomplishment?

KB Klicks: My biggest accomplishments (which all happened around the same time) so far have been:

This feature with Why Blue Matters is definitely a major accomplishment. It’s a God-send.

Working with DELUX Magazine (an urban magazine based out of St. Louis) has given me the opportunity to gain even more experience and exposure. I am quite grateful to Keith Griffin (owner) and the DELUX family for such an outstanding opportunity.

Being selected for The Photo Media Centers 2010 Exhibition

Honestly, any opportunity for my work to get exposure is a big accomplishment for me. I take nothing for granted, I consider it all a blessing and thank God for his continued favor and give thanks to those who take time out of their busy lives to view my work or consider for any opportunities. I am thankful.

Most significant accomplishment(s)?

KB Klicks: One of my most significant accomplishments was being chosen by my professor, at the time, to enter my work into a student art exhibition showcased by the University. My work was eventually chosen to be included in the showcase. This was the turning point for me because photography was not my major, yet my professor saw something in me that I had not acknowledged in myself – potential.

What would you do if you weren't involved with what you're doing currently?

KB Klicks: I’d find some way to incorporate photography into my life, even if I wasn’t in the field. Since my previous main focus was law, I’d definitely be an entertainment law attorney. Although, I haven’t quite given up that dream of one day having a law degree in that concentration…

Where do you see yourself 5 yrs from now?

KB Klicks: I hope that I’m either established in my career as a photo editor for a major magazine such as VOGUE or ELLE or as a successful freelance photographer. I would also like to have my work regularly exhibited in both local and international galleries.

I just want to be successful. No fame required.

Any future projects?

KB Klicks: I’m currently working on submitting my work to more exhibitions. I’m preparing to attend portfolio reviews in preparation for my return to school to obtain my B.A. (and eventually my M.A.) in Photography. If I happen to manage to obtain a J.D. in entertainment law along the way, I wouldn’t be mad about it…

What type of impact would you like to leave with your works?

KB Klicks: I hope my work revives or ignites a creative and passionate spirit within people; I hope that viewers of my work are able to live in the moment I’ve captured; and I hope my work impacts viewers in that it reminds them to have compassion and love for people in a world that doesn’t always deserve it.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their interest in photography?

KB Klicks: Do not take a career in photography lightly. It’s not just about clicking a shutter release button. Be prepared to have a thick skin…just because mom likes it, it doesn’t mean the industry will. Be your own worst critic and best supporter. If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll desire to put forth your best work and ultimately people will see it as well. Never lose your imagination and sense of creativity…It is life or death in this field. Be uniquely you…always.

For More On KB Klicks:
www.kbklicks.com (main site)
www.delux-mag.com (photography taken by me for Delux Magazine of iammecollective recognoscere event during STL Fashion week and of recording artist (former American Idol) Aloha Mi'sho birthday celebration at Black Label Lounge – photos include “KBklicks” tag)
http://streatart.tumblr.com/ (blog focusing on photography, street art, graffiti, urban life, fashion, and artists opportunities/call-for-entries)