Kristen Kilpatrick
Meet the globe trotting beauty who takes stunning photographs of people, horses, and places around the world
Photographer
I wish so desperately that I could travel to any destination in the world and be able to communicate with the indigenous people. Communication is everything, and I think about what it would be like to have this talent every time I travel!
Kristen Kilpatrick’s adventures as a photographer have taken her all over the world—across Italy as she documented a stylish jaunt with lifestyle guru Camille Styles, to Africa for an exploration in capturing the beauty of equine therapy, to LA where she photographed Elizabeth Chambers Hammer for the latest issue of Texas Monthly, or on set with Vogue Mexico to take a portrait of the founder of Bumble, Whitney Wolfe. No matter the assignment, Kristen (or Kilpat as her friends call her), brings a special charm and warmth to her photo shoots that make each person lucky enough to be in front of her Canon camera feel comfortable and at ease. Her work has an ethereal quality that she brings to shooting everything from wild horses to lucky bride and grooms. And wherever she is going next, Kristen always brings her favorite Mi Golondrina pieces with her. We love the way she effortlessly styles them—dressed up with a skirt, or down for a more casual look with Gucci sneakers.
We caught up with the striking Fort Worth native who has a magnetic high energy at home in her downtown Austin loft. “My current space, with its floor-to-ceiling windows is flooded with natural light and is set up perfectly for my work,” she says. “Living in the heart of the city adds this upbeat energy to my life—I can hear live music every weekend, as I am powering through late night edits.”
Her minimalist modern style is seen throughout her home’s soft palette and clean lines. When she isn’t globetrotting (be sure to follow along with her beautiful adventures on Instagram @kilpat), she can often be found on her family ranch in Hico, Texas. “My work fuel comes from light play, and the environment, and this comes together perfectly when I am there, all alone and at peace in the horse field,” she says. “To me, there is nothing more joy filled then days spent with my horses, during golden hour.”
How did you get into photography?
I’ve always loved taking pictures and documenting moments (big or small), but it wasn’t until my formal training in the arts during college (at Texas Christian University) that I started to refine my style.
Who has been the most influential woman in your life?
My mother, Betty Kilpatrick. She loves so purely and effortlessly, and she demonstrates grace daily. She is kind, talented, creative, and passionate. She is not only the most humble human I know, but also the most well-rounded and talented person. Did I mention she is one of the best cooks I know? She keeps me grounded, and she never judges. Ok, now I am homesick…
What’s a big moment that helped define the woman you are today?
In college, I was in a traumatic boating accident. I had to trust blindly in the unknown. To condense a very long story, this was the defining moment where I learned the power of faith. Faith in the unknown is such a beautiful thing because with faith you can walk through fire and truly trust that you will come out stronger, better, and that something life giving will be on the other side. Practice faith in the unknown everyday, and your happiness will undoubtedly increase. You will feel fulfilled.
What do you love most about Austin?
I love how all encompassing this city is—the arts, culture and endless outdoor spots to explore! There is such a wonderful creative community here.
What is a favorite quotation of yours?
“Let faith guide you through the unknown.”
What destinations are on your dream travel list?
ANYWHERE with wild horses, but currently top of my list is Carmague, France.
What are three things you never travel without?
My Canon, my Adidas, and my Tata Harper products.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Knowing perfect love. If you know, you know. To me, this is my fallback for the hard days because I know what voices are healthy to listen to and which to let go of.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I wish so desperately that I could travel to any destination in the world and be able to communicate with the indigenous people. Communication is everything, and I think about what it would be like to have this talent every time I travel!
I find my inspiration from so many different things in life—people, experiences, artists, taste, patterns, anything conceptual, animals, light in every form….the list goes on. However, my main inspiration comes from nature.
What qualities do you admire the most in others?
Kindness. I want to surround myself with these people—always!
How do you get out of a creative rut?
I surround myself with other creatives, or I go spend a little bit of time in nature.
Tell us about your horse project. How did that come about?
Ever since I was a little girl I’ve been completely enamored with the equine world. I feel a sense of euphoria whenever I am around them. To be able to capture the spirit of these animals and share them with other viewers is a true passion of mine. The project unfolded naturally and will be ongoing for the years to come.
What are some current sources of inspiration?
I find my inspiration from so many different things in life—people, experiences, artists, taste, patterns, anything conceptual, animals, light in every form….the list goes on. However, my main inspiration comes from nature. Right now all I want to do is travel and see new environments and put my subjects in those inspiring environments!
How do you style your Mi Golondrina?
What I love about Mi Golondrina is how you can truly pair these pieces with anything, depending on your mood for the day. I have found my Mi Golondrina to be a suitcase staple when I travel because these pieces fit the aesthetic for any destination.
Kristen is featured wearing the following pieces from our collection:
All photos by Kristen Kilpatrick
