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Kerlyn Van Gelder, Unraveled

Kerlyn is a motherhood photographer - capturing maternity, newborns, and family sessions in Texas and beyond. She is inspired by her own motherhood journey and her son’s journey with autism, focusing on the quiet and meaningful moments together. Through her parenting and advocacy for children autism, she has been able to bring her knowledge of working with children with special needs to her sessions to create safe spaces to document big feelings, timeless memories, and meaningful connections. She is passionate about not only creating an inclusive photography business, but also creating photographs that expresses who she is as an artist.

For more inspiration:

Instagram | Website

Here is Kerlyn, Unraveled…

What inspired your art?

Motherhood has always been the root of inspiration for my work. Our connections, the feelings we are unable to put into words, our unique journeys that connect us all on a common level.

What do you shoot with? Camera body and favorite lens?

I shoot with a Nikon D750 and my two favorite lenses are the Sigma Art 35mm and Nikon 50mm.

What other ways do you express your creativity?

I love to write, not that I see myself as a writer but its definitely a way for me to express myself to myself as I sort through feelings and emotions.

How do you de-stress at the end of the day?

It honestly depends on the day - I like horrible reality tv shows and TikTok videos, but I could also watch an artistic documentary, re-read a favorite book, or I could decorate my home.

What kind of music do you listen to while editing?

I don’t normally listen to music when I edit, but if I do it’ll be Gregory Alan Isakov, Bob Dylan, Finneas, Kacey Musgraves.

What is your favorite book?

Pride and Prejudice

Name one movie that inspires you.

500 Days of Summer

How do you handle self-doubt or creative slumps?

Just keep pushing through, educating myself, and learning through research or through mentorships - I firmly believe in continuing education. I did a mentorship with Kaley Kocinski this year and I came back to my work feeling inspired and full of new knowledge.

What has been the most difficult part of your creative journey?

2020. This year has been rough both in business and my personal life - for the first time I feel VERY overwhelmed trying to juggle it all. I’ve probably questioned myself 10 different times if I can run my full time business as it once was, homeschool a child with special needs, and handle all the regular adulting responsibilities.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Pepperoni

What is your favorite kind of light and why?

I love sunrise on the beach, it usually soft and warm, with a pinkish hues.

Who is one of your favorite photographers?

Bethany Sams

What is your favorite lesson or course in Unraveled?

In the Frame with Jessica Rasmussen