“I strive to live purposefully and authentically, embracing my story and inspiring others to pursue their passions in art, life, and the business of bringing ideas to life.” — Kathy Tran

My Story

I’m Kathy Tran, a first-generation Vietnamese American, photographer, entrepreneur, and content creator driven by a deep passion for storytelling and creativity. Growing up in an immigrant family and being adopted at 14 by my elementary school counselor, I’ve blended my life experiences into a profound love for photojournalism and the art of capturing authentic moments.

With over a decade of experience in the multimedia industry, I’ve built a thriving creative agency in Dallas, Texas, and a personal brand focused on bold authenticity and creative expression.

I recently opened Kessler Studios, a space where I not only do some of my creative work but also host wellness classes and curate unique experiences for the community. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where people can come together, collaborate, and find inspiration in each other.

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Youtube: My Creative Outlet

As a creative entrepreneur, I love blending business, style, and personal growth, all with a focus on living and working with intention. My YouTube channel is my space to share what I’m passionate about—whether it’s food adventures, lifestyle, or vlogs about my entrepreneurial journey. I’m also deeply passionate about second-hand fashion and have a quirky obsession with collecting cheeseburgers. Through my content, I hope to inspire others to live authentically and enjoy every step of their journey.

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OPPORTUNITIES

I’m always open to exploring paid collaborations that align with my values and creative vision. I enjoy partnering with brands that resonate with my passion for storytelling, authenticity, and creativity. Additionally, I thrive in speaking engagements where I can share my experiences, insights, and lessons learned as an entrepreneur and artist. Whether it’s discussing photography, personal branding, or the entrepreneurial journey, I’m eager to inspire and empower others.

PERSONAL PROJECTS

PUSHING CREATIVE BOUNDARIES

My personal projects are a true reflection of my artistic heart. From my early days of self-portraiture to my recent 52-week project, I’ve used photography as a tool to explore myself conceptually. These projects allow me to delve into new ideas, challenge my self-perception, and grow as an artist. Each project is a step forward in my journey, helping me refine my craft and gain a deeper understanding of myself and my surroundings.

COMING SOON

KATHY TRAN ARTS SCHOLARSHIP

The Kathy Tran Arts Scholarship was founded because Kathy, having faced her own challenges as a teen, wanted to create an opportunity for students like her who didn’t always fit the traditional mold. After missing out on scholarships due to GPA requirements, she decided to start her own fund to celebrate creative students who have shown resilience in the face of adversity, ensuring that their artistic potential gets recognized and supported.

This scholarship supports high school seniors in the Richardson school district who have faced and overcome adversity. This scholarship focuses on creative portfolio and personal experiences, not academic performance, so there’s no minimum GPA required. Each year, 6 to 12 students are awarded $1,000 based on the strength of their portfolio and their ability to tell their story. To qualify, students must fill out an application and participate in an in-person interview with the scholarship committee, where they can share how their creativity has helped them overcome challenges.

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