Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brandi Blake, Founder and Professional Photographer of Brandi Blake Photography, located in Irmo, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a portrait photographer located in the Columbia, SC, area. I relay a client's story through portraits while showing them and their families how beautiful they are.
Tell us about yourself
I am 48 years old, married for 25 years to my wonderful husband, and we have two children in college. I had a passion for photographing pets as a kid. When I graduated with my master's, my husband gifted me my first DSLR. In 2008, I started my portrait business. What drives me each day is the genuine shock clients give me when I show them how gorgeous they are, their families, or even their pets! People are under the misconception that they do not look good in photos. If we continue this trend, future generations will not have printed portraits for their family members. There won't be anything tangible to show your family's legacy. My passion is to change the way you see yourself, boost your family's self-esteem and kids' confidence, and leave you with gorgeous artwork to pass along to generations to come.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is empowering people through portraits.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The toughest part is wearing all the hats. It's not just photographing clients. There is so much behind-the-scenes work, and at times it can be very overwhelming.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a group of like-minded businesses to network and gain support.
- Don't try to do everything at once; you will burn out.
- Don't forget to pay yourself. Even if it is a small salary to start, you need to pay yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://brandiblake.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandiblakephotography/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandiblakephotography/
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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