KaS is kind-hearted — more so than anyone else I’ve ever met. Her passion for people radiates out of her in a way that’s noticeable in your first interaction. I had the pleasure of working with KaS to optimize her business, and I’ll say this: her hospitality, honor, and humility blew me away. Not only is her work beautiful, but she embraces what it means to work for what you want with grace. I can’t wait for you to meet her.
Who you are and what do you do?
I’m KaSandra Mitchell – the founder, owner, and lead photographer of The Humble Lion. I create custom imagery for brilliant, badass brands and digital tools for fellow creatives.
How do you define leadership?
Leadership can be defined as many things, but I think good leadership requires a fine balance of courage, humility, and empathy. True leaders don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk – even when no one is looking. They’re willing to check their egos, own their mistakes, and make decisions based on a greater good rather than what will give them the most personal gain. These qualities seem so simple and obvious, but they’re rare to come by.
What’s one (yes, just one) thing you’re really good at?
I’m really, really good at reading people. I have a genuine interest in humans and what makes them tick. I truly believe that seeing people for who they are (and who they want to be) is what helps me set my work apart.
Tell us about a time when you realized this is what you were meant to do.
Every single time a client tells me they truly see themselves in my images, I know this is what I’m meant to be doing. It gives them a little boost of confidence and makes them proud to put themselves and their work out there. And I fully believe that the world needs more people who are passionate about what they do and what they have to offer.
What’s one personal value you hold true in your business?
I believe in leading with confidence and humility. I know my work is good, but I know it can always be improved. I know there will always be a photographer out there who can and will outwork me. But I work my ass off to keep learning and run with the best.
You have to have the confidence to put yourself out there. You also have to have the humility to receive critical feedback, learn from your mistakes, and keep going.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I grew up in the rural Kentucky countryside and enjoy being in nature. So, you’ll catch me hiking, cycling, swimming, snowboarding, or reading next to a river or creek. I also really love live music and comedy shows.
What’s in your 10-year vision?
Joy, contentment, and privacy.
Who is one person who has shown you what’s possible in your life or business? What was the “see to believe” lesson they taught you? (This can be someone you know, someone you don’t know, or even a fictional character!)
I’ve followed Glo Atanmo since 2014 and met her in 2015 – before her brand grew to the success you see today. When I started following her, she had just completed a media internship in England (the same internship I went on to complete the year after her) and she had just started The Blog Abroad. She is now a creative business coach and is sharing stages with Tony Robbins. She’s always been full of grit and it feels like a gift to have watched her grow from afar (and sometimes up close as a mentor) over the years. It has also been amazing to see her pivot once she finds success in one area. Glo is always seeking a challenge and forever paving the way for other creatives. She has truly given meaning to the saying, “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” She is also one of the most humble humans I’ve ever met and that speaks volumes to me.
What’s one moment in your life that, looking back on, made you realize you would own your own business?
In 2017, I was living and working abroad on the Gold Coast in Australia for a study abroad company. I had a split role as a marketing communications officer and as an advisor to students who were volunteering abroad. It was incredibly rewarding. My boss was amazing and everyone on the team was so kind and fun to work with. But I always found myself daydreaming about photography and managing my own schedule. I didn’t enjoy the routine of a 9-5 (albeit some days I wish I had a “normal” routine again). I knew as soon as my contract and visa were up that my only option was to dive into freelance photography full-time.
What are three things you always have on you (beside phone, wallet, keys)?
My water bottle with an obnoxious amount of stickers on it.
This Leaders We Love segment features KaSandra Mitchell of The Humble Lion.
KaSandra Mitchell is the founder, owner, and lead photographer of The Humble Lion – a photography studio for brilliant, badass brands.
You can follow KaSandra on Instagram @thehumblelion_.