From Hobbyist to Pro: My Photography Journey

Kenneth Duncan Jr
Aug 13
3 min read

KD Photography and Design | The Heart Behind The Lens

I didn’t grow up with a camera in my hand. I wasn’t the kid who always had a disposable or dreamed of working for National Geographic. I actually wanted to be the “Dinosaur Man” from Jurassic Park. I wanted to discover new types of dinos.

But one thing was always true: I loved stories and movies. And eventually, I realized that photography is one of the most powerful ways to tell them.

What started as a creative outlet quickly became something much deeper — a calling, a business, and a way to serve others with purpose.

The First Click: Where It Started

My journey began with a story I needed to tell — my own.

I was 20 years old and had just survived cancer. I was told I was the 13th person in the world to get that type of cancer — and the only one to survive. I went back to Texas A&M International University to raise my GPA so I could transfer, and while I was there, I took a filmmaking class.

That’s when I told my story for the first time — and created my first mini-documentary.

The following fall, I transferred to Texas A&M University–Kingsville, where I studied communication with a minor in theatre. I immersed myself in all things storytelling — speech, radio, photography, TV, newspaper, and film. I didn’t know it then, but those experiences shaped everything about how I see the world now.

My first real camera wasn’t anything special — just something with more control than a phone. I started photographing events, church gatherings, and friends who couldn’t afford a professional. It was raw. Unpolished. But real.

Turning Point: From Side Hustle to Full Commitment

After graduation, I kept photography close, even while working in other fields. I shot on the side, building skills, learning on the fly, and sharpening my creative eye.

The turning point?

Have you ever heard of “burning the boats”? Well… my boats were burned for me when I was let go from my job — for the first time. I hit a crossroads where I could either find another job or finally do what I loved.

I realized I didn’t just love taking photos — I loved helping people feel seen.

Whether it was capturing a senior’s personality in a single frame or helping a small business owner finally feel confident showing up online, I saw how powerful photography could be when done with intention.

That’s when the new version of KD Photography and Design was born.

Building KD Photography & Design

When I officially re-launched my business, I didn’t want to be just another photographer. I wanted a brand built on something deeper — presence.

That’s where my message “Powerfully Present” came from.

To me, photography isn’t just about standing in front of a camera. It’s about being fully engaged in the moment — whether you're a business owner building your brand, a couple on their wedding day, or a community celebrating something meaningful.

My goal is never just to take a good photo — it’s to capture a true one.

Lessons From the Journey (So Far)

📸 Start with what you have.My gear isn’t perfect — but I’m willing to learn and grow with it.

📸 Focus on people, not perfection.Some of my most powerful photos aren’t technically flawless. They’re emotionally real.

📸 Brand from your values.KD Photography & Design isn’t just a business — it’s an extension of how I see the world.

📸 Be present. Always.That’s the foundation of every shoot, every conversation, and every image I deliver.

From Hobbyist to Pro — and Still Growing

Now, I shoot full-time. I’ve photographed weddings, barbershop events, tattoo studios, vendor markets, and moments that matter. I’m building a portfolio that reflects not just what I do — but who I serve.

And I’m just getting started.

If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or aspiring photographer reading this, just know:The transition from hobbyist to pro doesn’t happen overnight.It happens when you show up, stay consistent, and believe that your voice (and your vision) has value.