Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Megan Dustin, a family and newborn photographer, based in Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We've all been there. Family photos can feel impossible. Or, at the very least, family photos with coordinating outfits and no tantrums can feel impossible. Right? You might find yourself thinking, is anyone actually able to smile for the camera after all of that chaos?
Mama, it's a lot of pressure. These are the moments that should be enjoyable, not stressful. I promise you it's possible. When booking a session with Megan Dustin Photography, you will have a completely custom experience. Truly. Every detail is considered, and you don't have to think about it! From pampering with professional hair and makeup to a carefully selected wardrobe, I've got you covered.
My goal is to take the pressure off of busy, new moms and to help you LOVE capturing these milestone moments. The Megan Dustin Photography studio is located in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, and we specialize in luxury maternity, newborn, and family photography.
Tell us about yourself
I have always loved babies, and when I had my own, that love only grew. The sweet newborn sounds, the squishy baby rolls, the gummy smiles, I love every age and every stage. When I had my first child over ten years ago, I realized just how quickly time passes, and I found myself yearning for time to slow down. Unfortunately, it doesn't work like that, but with photographs, we can take a step back to those sweet moments in time. This is my WHY.
I've dug deeper over the past couple of years and realized that I really enjoy serving my clients and loving on new moms. It's a tough transition when you first have a baby, and I recognize the feelings that new moms are experiencing. I understand how overwhelmed they may feel and want to ease some of that stress. The last thing a new mom wants to do is design their own birth announcements or think about putting together a baby album. But I know they WILL want these one day, so I make it happen for them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Redefining the way I run my business has been a constantly ongoing process, and I'm proud of how far I've come over the past 10 years. I started out doing mini-sessions for friends for free in my living room, and now I have a studio where I provide a luxury experience for my clients. My clients walk away from a session experience with beautiful, heirloom-quality tangible artwork so that they can enjoy their portrait memories every day. And the best part? They didn't have to do the work because I take care of that for them.
Over the years since I started MDP, I've participated in so many workshops, clinics, and masterminds to develop my photography skills as well as my business skills. What is extraordinary is that I have retained some of my very first clients over these years, and I continue to serve them today. I credit that to my commitment to always continuing to learn, grow, and serve my clients.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Without a doubt, the hardest thing about being a business owner is the juggling act of balancing my family life and my work. Being a mom to three young kids will always be my number one priority. But the balancing act is HARD. There will always be "mom guilt," and I'm still learning how to maneuver that. But I've found that having this job makes me a better mom, and so I will continue to show my kids how working hard and doing something you love is worth it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do something you love. If you don't love it, you won't give 100%, and then it isn't really worth it.
- Continue to reevaluate your business over time and make changes. Take inventory of what is working. If something isn't working, change it! Don't stop growing. Continue educating yourself on your craft and business ownership.
- Make friends in your field so you can bounce ideas off of each other. Business ownership can be lonely, and you need a village!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://megandustin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megandustinphotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megandustinphotography/
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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