Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Aimee Seguin, founder of Aimee Rae Photography, located in Hamilton, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi, I'm Aimee, and I like to take pictures! I am a lifestyle photographer from Hamilton, focusing on weddings, families, and, most recently, boudoir. I love creating, meeting people, and making them feel good. I might be a little biased, but being a photographer is the best job!
Tell us about yourself
Well...my favourite title is "mom," but I am also a wife. Our wedding day is what really pushed me into photography. I remember sitting with my husband going through our wedding album and just being so happy, excited, all the feelings you can imagine. I looked at him and told him, "this is what I want to do." I wanted to make people as happy as I was at that moment. I want to be able to create lasting memories for my clients. I went out, bought a camera, and that's really where it all began.
Every message, tag, like, the comment I receive just motivates me. It pushes me to be better and want to do better. It's really a great feeling. I truly feel like photography is not my "job" I love it so much that it doesn't feel like work. I get to meet new people, hang out with them for an hour or the day and create memories. So many clients have turned to friends, same with vendors. It's just so amazing in so many ways.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I started Aimee Rae Photography in 2020, right before and pandemic hit. I was working my full-time job in education and had just started my own photography business. To think of where I started and where I am today in just two years, there are just no words. I never thought I would be able to do this full-time. I am the happiest I have been in YEARS, and to me, that alone is a huge accomplishment. Doing what you love!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I LOVE my clients; sometimes, I find it hard to say "no." Trying to find the work/home balance is something I am always working on and the whole "turning work off" for the day. I am slowly learning, but I am so lucky to have a very supportive family that understands I work weekends/evenings. When I'm home, I am on my computer/phone a lot.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Just do it! There will never be the "right time" I kept waiting and waiting, and one day I just decided to do it. The best thing I ever did! Be kind. Kindness can get you far in every aspect of life. And always practice your craft. For me being a photographer, I am always learning, whether it's workshops, content days, chatting with other creatives, or even YouTube. It's important to have updated knowledge.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.aimeeraephotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aimeeraephotography/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aimeeraephotography/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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