Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karene-Isabelle Jean-Baptiste, a photographer based in Montreal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I do portrait and photojournalism work. My customers are publications and individuals who want to have their portraits done in a way that is introspective and speaks to who they are.
Tell us about yourself
I started doing photography full-time after having worked as an industrial engineer for almost 20 years. I had always been interested in photography but being a mom kept me from pursuing my dream. A year prior to the pandemic, I decided to throw caution to the wind and just go for it. I needed to find out if I could do it. Turns out I can! Taking pictures and seeing how they help people feel better about themselves or being able to turn the viewers' attention to an issue is what keeps me going. It makes me feel like I am making a difference in my way.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was definitely to have one of the stories I did on Black Women frontline workers during the pandemic be picked up by major outlets. So many of the women who saw the reports reached out to tell me that they finally felt seen and appreciated. It made the work feel good.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest part of being a business owner for me is definitely finding a balance between work and family. I no longer do a 9 to 5, but sometimes it feels like 24 hours! Lol! I'm working hard on setting boundaries.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do not hesitate to reach out to people who have skills that you do not. Knowing when to ask for help is very important.
- Build a network of other entrepreneurs in your field. There is definitely strength in numbers, and you can learn from each other.
- Do it scared.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://kareneisabelle.format.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KareneIsabelle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kareneisabelle/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BaptisteKI
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareneisabelle/
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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