All photographs by Annique Marie Photography
This week’s Meet-A-Mom Feature is local family and wedding photographer, Kristen Fondon!
Read more information about her below!
How do you serve Austin families?
Hi friends! I’m Kristen, and I’m a wedding and family photographer serving families in Austin and the surrounding area through Kristen Fondon Photography. My passion is capturing family moments on camera. Their shared experiences as well as observing them enjoying life fills my heart with joy. I love to shoot families in the neighborhoods where they actually live, visiting the places that are special to them. I also love meeting new friends. My hope is to not only provide you with photographs you will cherish, but joy-filled time with those you love.
Tell us about yourself!
I grew up in McGregor, Texas, where my entire family lived within a 30 mile radius. I kind of loved it, honestly! I graduated with a Bachelors of Social Work from Tarleton State University in 2011 and worked in that field for a few years after college. I have a strong desire to be authentic and to serve people. Because of this, it’s easier to connect with mommas and families through my photography. I love finding new coffee shops with friends, listening to audiobooks, and going camping in the mountains with family over the summer.
Tell us about your family!
During college, I met my husband Ben, and we were married in March of 2012. We will be celebrating our 10 year anniversary in 2022 (hopefully with a fun adventure)! After Ben graduated from college, we moved to Oklahoma for a few years. We had our sweet babes, Ellie and Sam there, and then moved back to Texas in 2018. Ben and I both had sweet memories living close to grandparents growing up and wanted the same for our kids, so that’s a primary reason we chose Austin. We’ve been so thankful to find opportunities to use our passions for photography and music within our community over the last few years! When we have free time, we like hanging in our backyard, going to see a movie, or going out to dinner with friends.
What are your favorite local restaurants?
For a good date night, we really enjoy Juniper or Loro. My favorite South Austin food spot is (hands down) Fresa’s on South First!
Do you have a favorite coffee shop?
This is SUCH a hard question for me! We’re currently loving Houndstooth whole beans, grinding at home and either doing a pour over (courtesy of my husband) or brewing a pot. For a fun coffee date with a friend, I love Radio Coffee. For a family vibe or play date, you can’t beat The Hive!
How has Covid affected your business?
In March of 2020, I returned home from a photography workshop feeling encouraged with inspiring new ideas and then Covid happened. At first there was a lot of fear and uncertainty about how to move forward in my work. When it was possible to have family sessions and weddings again, I was encouraged and reminded that people still wanted their photos taken. As far as interacting with my clients, there’s no need for me to touch or position anyone during a session because of my lifestyle approach when photographing. I think the biggest effect has been on me. I’ve been so grateful (an understatement honestly) for the trust that new and returning families have had in me during such a scary year. It’s a joy to be able to support others while feeling supported all at the same time.
Our mission is to give moms the gift of time. What are your best time-saving tips/resources as a mom?
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but paper plates are a magical thing, my friend. I’ll be honest, I don’t have them all the time and don’t love to use them unless we’re camping, but there are weeks that it’s the best option for my family. Another thing that works well for me is using grocery pickup. It’s been a game changer! I’m spending less time (if you have littles, you know how they can go down every toy/snack aisle and still not be finished) and less money since I’m not picking up things I don’t actually need!