Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Afrik Armando, an event photographer based in Philadelphia, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I work mostly in the Philadelphia/New York area. My customers are usually couples getting married, corporations, and fashion magazines.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business six years ago, and I started off photographing at a car dealership. It was actually a promotion from being the car wash guy. Then slowly, I got into photographing families, then weddings, and now high-end weddings and corporate gigs. I think the opportunity to make people feel seen and loved is one of my favorite parts of the job.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Wow, haha, I've got so many. Last year, we got to work with some Bravo realities stars, but I'd say the highlight so far has been shooting for the New York Times.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Loneliness, since most of my days are filled with working, I tend not to have any time to spend with family and loved ones. Hopefully, that'll change as I get more established.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Try your best to make friends in high places, but be genuinely interested in their craft and lives.
- Clarity of purpose. Why are you starting a business, and what makes you different than everyone else doing what you're about to do?
- NEVER GIVE UP; as cheesy as that sounds, you should know that things will get very difficult but stand your ground and try to enjoy the journey.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://afrikarmando.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrikarmando/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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