Member profile: Keith Philpott, Keith Philpott Photography

Keith Philpott, Owner, Keith Philpott Photography

by Kelsey Garrison, Rising Stars special interest group coordinator

When you think of KC/IABC, you might not be quick to think “photographer.” Keith Philpott, our chapter’s 2008 Entrepreneur of the Year, uses his photography expertise to provide a different perspective for IABC and his career.

Keith, owner of Keith Philpott Photography, has worked as a photographer for more than 25 years. He began his career working with print publications. Later, he moved on to corporate photography, where his work is seen in annual reports and on Web sites.

You might be wondering why a photographer would want to be part of KC/IABC. Simply put, Keith said he wasn’t involved in any other group. He was told about KC/IABC by another Kansas City photographer and thought he’d try it out. Keith began his stint in the early 1990s by attending IABC meetings. Over time, his involvement grew and three years ago, Keith was KC/IABC’s president. More recently, he served on IABC’s Southern Region board.

Keith said KC/IABC opened up new avenues for him. “Over time, I learned many things that weren’t photography-related, which benefited me both professionally and personally,” he said.

Keith also believes that KC/IABC helped him build a bigger network than he could have on his own as an independent. “One of the hazards in working for yourself is that you don’t develop as many relationships,” he said. “This group filled in that gap for me. I think it’s important for independent people to get involved, because it keeps you dialed in to the rest of the world.”

Keith said his clients benefit from the strategic communication skills he gained from KC/IABC. He now sees “the bigger picture,” which often helps him with his assignments and enables him to get photos his clients might not have thought about. “I think people appreciate the unique perspective I bring to the table,” he said.

Even with all Keith’s professional accomplishments, he credits KC/IABC with helping him tremendously throughout his career. “The number one thing the group has done for me is taught me the importance of how to think as a strategic communicator and be a member of a team. Everything I do benefits from that.”

Five more things about Keith . . .

Hometown: Haviland, Kansas
First job in Kansas City: Townsend Communications—Dispatch Newspaper
Hobbies: traveling (Keith’s been to all seven continents and has visited more than 100 countries!)
Favorite photos: Footless Goose “Andy the Goose,” Ant Collector and Bowling Ball Stacker
Keith recommend KC/IABC because: It can advance a career by building a stronger professional network. It’s a place to gain life-time friends And for those who volunteer, the experience can grow leadership skills.