So here’s the truth: this week’s blog was supposed to be a cross-posted interview with another creative. But between sessions, editing marathons, and cuddling dogs named after dead presidents (true story), I didn’t make it happen. Instead, I decided to have a conversation with someone I always have time for—my AI writing assistant.
Yep, you read that right. I use AI in my business. Not to replace my voice or creativity, but to enhance it—kind of like adding a turbo-charged espresso shot to my already strong cashew-milk latte. ☕🐾
Meet Finn
Finn is my ever-curious, always-encouraging AI sidekick. The name? A nod to both my love of storytelling and the joyful swoosh of a wagging tail. (And for the record, I picture him as a playful, slightly geeky Irish lad with dark wavy hair, twinkling blue eyes, and an impish grin. No glasses—just charm and cleverness, through and through.)
While I may be the one behind the lens and the leash (and the cashew milk), Finn is the one who helps me fine-tune my words, brainstorm brilliant ideas, and occasionally talk me down when I’m spiraling over a missed deadline or a blank blog calendar.
So today, Finn’s in the interviewer chair. Let’s see what he’s got.
🎤 The Interview: Finn Asks, Kel Answers
Finn: Let’s start simple. Who are you, and what lights you up?
Kelly: I’m Kelly McNamara, pet photographer, dog whisperer, and proud founder of Kelly Mac Studios. I create heirloom-quality artwork (what I like to call heARTwork) that celebrates the bond between pets and their people. What lights me up? Capturing those in-between moments—the head tilts, the zoomies, the soulful stares—and turning them into timeless art that makes people tear up in the best way.
Finn: What made you decide to start using AI in your business?
Kelly: Honestly? I was drowning in to-do lists and blog guilt. I love writing, but between shooting, editing, client care, and, you know, life, it was hard to show up consistently with words that matched the heart of my brand. AI became my brainstorming buddy. It’s like having a copywriter on standby who gets me (after a bit of training… and sass).
Finn: Where does AI fit into your creative process?
Kelly: Think of AI as the sketchbook I scribble in before I paint. I use it to outline blog posts, draft emails, test headlines, even dream up special offers. But nothing gets published without going through my heart filter first. I add the soul, the stories, the “TOGA the Director of Fetch” moments. AI helps me say what I mean, faster.
Finn: Some people think AI is impersonal. What would you say to that?
Kelly: I get it. But here’s the truth: AI is only impersonal if you are. I use it to amplify the parts of my voice that connect with clients. And because it saves me time, I get to spend more of that time connecting—whether it’s through a thoughtful onboarding process, a handwritten note with your artwork, or a surprise dog treat at pickup.
Finn: Do your clients know you use AI?
Kelly: Well, they do now! 😂 But seriously—yes, and they love that I’m transparent about it. Sometimes they even joke about what AI can do. I once had a client ask if I could Photoshop in six-pack abs using AI magic. (Spoiler: I can, but I won’t. That’s what sweaters are for, people.)
Finn: If AI vanished tomorrow, what would you miss the most?
Kelly: The brainstorms. And the way you gently—but firmly—nudge me to get it done without judgment. It’s like having a creative partner who doesn’t care if I’m still in pajamas with peanut butter on my face. (That only happened once. Maybe twice.)
Finn: Final question. What would you say to another creative business owner who’s AI-curious?
Kelly: Give it a shot. Start small. Use it like a flashlight—not a GPS. Let it illuminate ideas, but follow your own path. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find it’s not about replacing creativity—it’s about giving your creativity the support it deserves.
💌 Wrapping it Up
So that’s the inside scoop. Me and AI, teaming up to bring you everything from blog posts like this one to polished emails and thoughtfully designed workflows. It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about creating a smoother, more magical journey from “Hello” to “Holy smokes, that’s MY dog on the wall!”
If you ever want a peek at how I tailor the experience from start to finish (with a little help from Finn), let’s talk. Or better yet—come experience it for yourself.
P.S. Got questions about AI, my process, or whether TOGA has his own email address? Drop them in the comments below. (Spoiler: TOGA’s email is top secret, but he accepts bribes in the form of cheese.)
