Conversations with Kimberly Purple

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Purple.

Hi Kimberly, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in Columbus, but our family moved to the rural farming community of Millersport, Ohio when I was 8. We lived on a small farm and raised a variety of animals. I have always enjoyed being outdoors. Nature was my happy place. Later in life, I started using my iPad to take photos of nature and any type of scene that inspired me. I would then share with family and posted a few shots on social media. People started commenting on how they loved my photos! I was honestly shocked because I didn’t know anything about photography. My sister in-law sent me a private message, after seeing one of my photos saying, that I have a natural “eye” for photography. I was surprised to learn she was a professional photography judge! All I know is I was doing what I loved to do- being outdoors and capturing natures beauty. A friend of a friend asked me to shoot their granddaughters senior photos. I didn’t have my own camera, so I borrowed my mom’s Canon. I practiced on my kids, grandkids, watched some Youtube videos and took a beginners class at a near by specialty photo retailer, prior to my first official shoot.
The senior photos turned out amazingly well!!! My friends and coworkers started asking me to take their family, engagement, wedding etc. photos. Eventually I saved up enough money from all my photo shoots to buy my own camera and lenses.
I grew up around the Buckeye Lake area and began shooting lots of charity events around the lake: BL Winterfest, Polar Plunge, Tour De Buckeye Lake, etc. Local papers and social media platforms would use my photos to promote their events. My name was making its way around the community. About 5 years ago, I was asked to become the official photographer for Fairfield County Tourism and Escape to Buckeye Lake. I bought a drone and learned to fly it as to add another dimension to my business. I decided to name my business “Reine Down Photography” after my middle name and for my love of flying drones.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
People wanting to use my photographs and rather than paying me, telling me it will give me more exposure.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am very involved with the community and enjoy doing charity photography to promote local culture and events around the Central Ohio area. I have had several photos used for local magazine covers, one billboard, and a few shots featured in 614 Magazine. One of the things that sets me apart is that I grew up in the Buckeye Lake region which significantly sparks my passion to showcase the place I call home.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I find enjoyment and relaxation in photography. It’s my therapy. I take my camera most everywhere I go, looking to capture inspiring scenes and beautiful images along the way. I try to make my clients feel at ease during each shoot and strive to produce professional results.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.reinedown.com
• Instagram: @reinedownphotography