The Artist Behind The Camera

Hi! My name is Katherina Vang (also known as Kat), under the pseudonym of "Maivab" (pronounced "My-ah", means baby in Hmong), I am a Minnesota Local visual artist specializing as a Wedding Photography and Videography, Portrait Artist, Photo Restoration Artist, and Photo Retoucher in the Twin Cities (Mpls, St. Paul, MN). I have been photographing professionally since 2010 and added video services to my packages in 2023. Besides my artistic career, I am a mother of 3 kids, 2 dogs and 1 gecko.

Fun Facts

My work has been exhibited and published all over the world

I was an Arts Curator for the Non-Profit Org, InProgress for 4 years and a Teaching Artist for much longer.

I am a blend of Arts (A.S. in VCT) and Tech (B.S. in MIS).

The first country I went to by myself to meet my penpals of 10+ years was to Toronto, Canada.

Q&A

What inspired you to become a photographer, and how has that shaped your style?

I fell in love with how light touches the spaces and objects around them.
What types of projects or subjects excite you the most?

I love any projects that allows me to be my creative self.
How do you handle challenging lighting situations or unexpected changes during a shoot?

I easily adjust for unexpected changes and will turn to my creative side for any challenging lighting situations.
What gear do you rely on the most, and why?

My camera (CF and battery included), 24-70mm lens, 35mm lens, and flash. These are my go-to to ensure I get the shots required. Anything else added is based on time.
How do you make clients feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera?

I give funny prompts and talk a lot about my family.
What is one project you’re most proud of, and what made it special?

My self portrait series was the start of building myself for clients. I don't have them up anymore but I like to go back and reflect on how much I've grown.