Business Details
22 Years
experience
Charleston Family Photographer
Captured by Kate Photography has been preserving authentic family moments in Charleston, SC and surrounding areas for over two decades. Our team specializes in candid lifestyle photography that captures genuine emotions and connections, whether through outdoor sessions on Kiawah Island or in-home portraits that reflect your family's unique personality. With expertise in both black-and-white and color photography, we guide clients through every step to ensure natural, timeless images that celebrate life's milestones.Founder Kate Thornton's editorial background and commitment to personalized service have earned recognition in national publications, while our associate photographers bring specialized skills in commercial work and client engagement. We prioritize understanding each family's vision through pre-session consultations, ensuring every photograph tells a meaningful story that will be cherished across generations.
Services
Family Portraits
Lifestyle Photography
Graduation Portraits
In-Home Sessions
Commercial Photography
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in family and lifestyle photography
- Our team provides personalized pre-session consultations for optimal results
- We specialize in both outdoor and in-home portrait sessions
- Our photographers have formal education in commercial photography
- We maintain a strong reputation through featured publications
What people say
Fun to work with
Great photos of kids
Perfect lighting
Personalized approach
Professional yet warm
Services
Family Portraits
Outdoor family photography sessions held during optimal lighting conditions near sunrise or sunset. Our team captures natural interactions and connections in scenic Charleston locations. Ideal for multi-generational groups, families with young children, and special occasions like anniversaries or milestone birthdays.
In-Home Sessions
Documentary-style photography capturing families in their natural environment. These sessions focus on authentic moments and personal connections within your home space. Perfect for welcoming new family members or preserving annual family milestones with pets included.
Graduation Portraits
Custom senior portrait sessions showcasing individual personalities. Available during golden hour lighting with options for outfit changes and personal props. Sessions often include family members or friends to create meaningful graduation keepsakes.
Commercial Photography
Professional branding and editorial photography services for businesses. Includes corporate headshots, annual reports, and marketing materials. Utilizes both natural and controlled lighting environments to create polished professional imagery for local and national clients.
Destination Photography
Photography services for visiting families and special occasions in Charleston. Includes local knowledge of scenic backdrops and event-specific photography for vacations, celebrations, or relocation milestones in the Charleston area.
People
Kate Thornton
Founder & Lead Photographer
Professional photographer with 20+ years experience specializing in candid family portraits. Graduated from College of Charleston in 2000 with newspaper photography background. Developed signature photojournalistic style that captures authentic family moments across Charleston.
Larry
Associate Photographer
Charleston native with six years experience at Captured by Kate. Specializes in second-shooting for portraits and lifestyle sessions. Holds photography degree from Trident Technical College with current focus on videography development.
Amy
Photographer
Former educator with 13 years Charleston residency. Combines teaching skills with photography to create comfortable client experiences. Specializes in children's portraits and graduated with AAS in Commercial Graphics for Photography in 2024.
Questions
What style of photography do you specialize in?
We specialize in candid, photojournalistic-style photography that captures authentic moments and natural interactions.
Do you photograph extended family groups?
Yes, we welcome multi-generational groups including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins in our sessions.
What locations do you recommend for sessions?
We suggest Charleston area beaches during golden hour, with specific recommendations for Kiawah Island and Folly Beach.
How long have you been photographing families?
Kate has over 20 years professional experience photographing families in Charleston since 2004.
Do you offer in-home photography sessions?
Yes, we offer lifestyle sessions in clients' homes to capture natural family interactions and milestones.
