Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rachel Bigej, Founder of Rachel Bigej Photography, located in Chaska, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Minnesota-based wedding + portrait photographer! I specialize mostly in couples, seniors, and models.
Tell us about yourself
I am 27 years old and have been working as a photographer full-time for three years. Photography has always been a big part of my life. My dad loves to collect cameras and take photos, so it was no surprise that I found an interest in photography early on. Being Korean-American, I am grateful that my parents supported my passions. In my culture, many parents expect their kids to excel in school and find a high-paying career (for example, doctor, lawyer, etc.). My parents knew how important photography was to me and believed that I could make my hobby into a career. I love working as a creative, but what motivates me every day are the people I get to work with. I am so grateful to have clients who believe in me and appreciate the art that I create. I've made so many friendships throughout the years because of photography. Ultimately my goal is to show my clients how beautiful they are through my eyes. I want them to FEEL something when they look at the photos.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I went from making $40,000k as a wholesale salesperson to making over six figures working for myself. This is a huge accomplishment, especially for only being in my 20s.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Finding personal time is the hardest part of being a business owner. I have a three-year-old daughter who attends daycare full-time, so I try my best to get work done when she's away & then give her my full attention once she's home. It's hard to balance work and personal time when you don't work a 9-5.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Believe in yourself. It's corny, but if you don't believe that you can start/manage a business, then it's not going to happen. You have to be your biggest fan. You have to have the drive to keep pushing.
- Social media is your best friend. I've never paid for any sort of advertisement. Instagram is essentially my portfolio. Most of my bookings come from word of mouth and hashtags on social media.
- Know your worth. I used to hate talking about money, but all of that changed once I moved out on my own and had a child. I charge what I charge because I know how much I spend post-process
there's no room for negotiation. I don't think people realize that hiring a photographer is a luxury service. On top of that, there's so much more to being a photographer than standing around and snapping a couple of pictures. I spend hours in my office working, and that's something that people don't see.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://rachelbigejphoto.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelbigejphoto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelbigejphoto/
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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