Hi, I’m Kerstin. Creative human. Gentle guide. Recovering perfectionist.
Pull up a chair – I’ll tell you a little about myself.
I’m a photographer and artist at heart – and a deeply curious human who has spent a good part of her life trying to understand why so many capable, caring people feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or quietly exhausted… even when everything looks “fine” on the outside.
I grew up learning how to be responsible early. I carried a lot, tried to do things right, and became very good at holding it together. Creativity was always there – drawing, imagining, photographing – but like many women, I pushed it aside when life got busy and serious.
For a long time, I thought that was just how adulthood worked. Eventually, my body, my energy, and my inner life told a different story.
What I’ve discovered – through my own life and through years of working with others – is that real change doesn’t come from pushing harder, talking ourselves into feeling better, or fixing one more thing.
It comes from slowing down, from being seen, from giving the nervous system a break, and from letting creativity speak when words don’t quite get there.
After telling stories through photography for many years, I reached a point where that alone wasn’t enough anymore. I was mentally and physically tired – and so were many of the women walking into my studio. Somewhere along the way, I had lost the joy of doing what I once deeply loved.
As I explored different forms of creativity and studied art-therapy-inspired approaches (I’m not a therapist), something shifted. I found my way back – not by doing more, but by listening differently. By working with the body, the nervous system, and imagination, not just words.
That realization changed how I work – and why. That’s why my work doesn’t fit neatly into one box.
I blend photography, mindful art practices, conversation, reflection, and presence – not as techniques to master, but as ways to come back to yourself. Gently, honestly, and without pretending.
You’ll find more about what got me where I am today here.
I’m a recovering perfectionist. I care deeply about people feeling safe and respected. I believe humor belongs even in serious spaces. I love thoughtful books, meaningful conversations, and moments that feel quietly magical.
I’m also someone who knows what it’s like to:
That lived understanding shapes everything I offer.
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me:
I also have a slightly quirky obsession with art supplies and fun shoes. I was born in Germany – which might explain my love of good bread, all things potato, European chocolate, Formula 1, and traveling. And then there’s Arachnophobia. Let’s not talk about it.
Some of my most treasured belongings are my dad’s old camera and light meter, along with a collection of photographs that remind me where my love for visual memories and storytelling began.
Animals hold a special place in my heart, too. After saying a hard goodbye to my beloved cat Celeste in 2023, our home felt a little too quiet. In 2024, three rescue kitties – Tillie, Tate, and Lila – found their way into my life and quickly became part of the family (and occasional models).
That love for animals shows up in my work as well. A few times a year, I host pet portrait fundraisers to support local animal rescues, and I also create Rainbow Bridge portraits for families who want to honor and remember pets they’ve lost.
Giving back through my work is something I care deeply about and intentionally make space for.
You can learn more about that on the Giving Back page.
One of the things I hear most often is that people feel at ease pretty quickly – even when we’re talking about things that feel tender or unfamiliar. I listen carefully, don’t rush, and meet you where you are – without pushing or forcing anything.
Sometimes our work together feels quiet and reflective, sometimes playful and imaginative, sometimes emotional, and sometimes light. All of it is welcome.
Art, for me, has never been about being impressive. It’s a journey of creating something unique and imperfect. I had to learn to let go perfection – because that’s where the meaning and uniqueness actually live. The real value is in the feelings and emotions it creates in us.
Children do this naturally – they live in the moment, imagine freely, and express without overthinking. Somewhere along the way, many of us lose that ease. My work is about finding our way back to it, in a way that feels grounded, respectful, and real.
And yes, I do believe a little magic belongs in our lives to help us feel like ourselves again.
…you’re probably someone who likes to know who they’re working with before deciding what to explore. I’m the same way.
If something here feels familiar, comforting, or gently curious, trust that. When you’re ready, I’d love to talk.
