For many, November marks a time for reflection and consideration of all things for which we are thankful. That's why we knew talented husband and wife team Karie and Field, of Ace & Whim, were perfect for this month's feature. We met Ace & Whim while attending Showit UNITED and we're so thankful we did. Their passion, talent and expertise has affected so much positive change within the photography industry and we jumped at the chance to include them in our Studio Feature series. Continue reading to learn more about Ace & Whim and how they are keeping the art of film photography alive in a digital world.

Studio Name
Ace & Whim

Studio Location
Gilbert, Arizona

Website
aceandwhim.com

What is your background and how did it lead to photography?
Field and I began film photography together in high school. I had always had a passion for the arts. I enjoyed painting, drawing and had assisted shooting weddings with my father (a hobby photographer). Field and I went off to college, still together; He earned a business degree and I became a nurse. I worked as an NICU nurse for 7 years. I picked up a camera again after our third kiddo was born and never looked back. I started Karie Denny Photography in 2009 then Field joined the business and we re-branded as Ace & Whim in 2013.

What type of photography do you shoot the most, and what is your favorite type of photography?
We photograph mostly weddings and we adore them. Field and I both have a strong passion for marriage! I am really loving lifestyle work, especially now that our children are getting older, so who knows what the future might bring for Ace & Whim. Lets just say, we never stop evolving.

What is your photographic style and aesthetic? How did you develop this style?
I would classify our style and aesthetic as natural, intimate and authentic. We have always had the frame of mind that we wanted to capture authentic love stories. Over the years, we realized that we really loved quiet and intimate settings with our couples, giving them the freedom to love one another without distraction. Plus, all things natural and in nature make me happy, so we try to connect with people that have the same love for the outdoors.

What is in your photography kit?
We are super simplistic in our gear and how we shoot. We have a Contax 645 with an 80mm lens - I never change my lens, a Pentax 645 with 105mm and 75mm, and a Canon mark ii with a Sigma art 50mm for receptions. Two light meters, Kodak and Fuji films. That's it!

What post-processing tools do you use?
We send our film to Richard Photo lab in CA, and then once we receive scans back, we edit everything in Lightroom 5.

What was the gist of your business plan when you first started?
When we first started, I definitely wanted to take over the world. oohaha. Really though, I wanted to be "successful", whatever that means. I thought in order to be successful, I needed to make a certain amount of money, win awards and speak at WPPI. All those things may be true, but after 6 years in this industry, I have learned that none of that matters. We have a family, a marriage and a relationship with God that comes first. We work hard, play hard and we love people. That's what I consider successful now.

What is your best photography tip and post-processing tip?
Best photo tip- You cannot ask of your clients what you are not willing to do yourself. And I mean in a very vulnerable, loving way. Field and I pride ourselves on photographing authentic love stories, because we have worked so hard to ensure that we are living one.
Best processing tip- SHOOT FILM-haha. It takes me 1 hr to edit a wedding. It has been amazing for my workflow. If you are not shooting film, my best advice would be to batch edit and keep things simple. Perfection will kill your creativity.

What was your greatest challenge so far as a professional photographer?
I would say my greatest challenge has been overcoming my own insecurities. This industry will expose them. It took me many years to realize that I had my own voice as an artist and that it was good enough.

What three things should you prioritize when starting a photography business?
1. Knowledge. Never stop learning and trying new things.
2. Know who you are and change for NO ONE.
3. Make connections in the industry. Grow with each other and build a loving, giving business.

Any last words of wisdom?
Love and kindness is always the answer. Owning a business is NOT for the faint of heart, but do not let ambition and competition change who you are. Even when you get hurt, jealous or angry, always show kindness.

To learn more about Ace & Whim, head to their website or connect with them on Social Media:

Follow Ace and Whim on Facebook
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