***All images in this post are copyright  Angie Sloan.***

NEXT WEEK: Allison Rodgers

{To nominate women you'd like to see in this series please list them in the comments-or if you have a question you'd like to see in the interviews--make sure to include your info in the comment fields so that I can get in touch with you- or write to me at: davina at davinafear dot com }

As always make sure to leave comments for the women who are featured. They like comments as much as i do I'm sure...let them know if you have questions or just to say thanks! for their insight and wisdom...



You can check out the rest of the series by clicking here. Tell a friend!
 

Angie,  Your approach to life and business is refreshing and wonderful.  You seem to have no problem putting what matters most first in your life.  I love that you work only on Mondays!  You and your husband and have a sweet little family and a very successful business. Thanks so much for being here on Women and Business!

How long have you been a professional photographer?  How did you and your husband come to work together?

We started shooting weddings on the weekends when we got married about 8.5 years ago. I started to shoot videography while Matt was in College for Photography. Matt was shooting photos here and there for some of my friends.  I got pregnant 5 years ago and by that time, we had more and more clients inquiring for our work. But we decided that after our little Maddux was born, I would start to 2nd shoot for Matt and I loved it! So, I decided to ditch my video camera and we became a photo team.

Are you in a retail space?  Or a home studio?  What made you decide on your space?  Do you have pictures to share with us?

We started 4 years ago as full time photographers with a home studio. It always worked out well. But when we had our little girl, we decided it might be good to have a full time studio space. Last year, we decided on a space and we  love it. For years we met brides at coffee shops and it worked out fine, but we wanted a place we could call our own and a place where we could show case our work on the walls and albums on the tables. I love when brides walk in and look at the prints on the wall and just smile so big! We moved our editing stations there also, which works out so much better for us. It is really wonderful, because it helps us separate work and family time.

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house?

Our workflow is pretty simple. We shoot, come home and download. I filter through the images in Photo Mechanic, the Matt raw processes them. We choose our top 100-200 favorites and give those images a little extra love. We upload our top 100 to a slideshow and the remaining images to the online gallery. Then the top 100 images go to Modern Album Design. MAD does our Albums, then we send them off to Vision Art and then we are done. We don’t do any sales meetings after the Wedding. We really like to keep things simple and the more time we can spend with our kids the happier we are.

But recently started outsourcing our raw processing and LOVE it. We have seriously been given back hours of our lives that we can now spend with our kids. Hallelujah for outsourcing!

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot?

We just be ourselves. We are really both mellow and laid back, so we tend to attract clients that are a lot like us and we have a lot in common with them. We really want them to have fun and be comfortable in front of the camera. Also, we are just big nerds and like to have fun, so I think it takes the pressure of our clients. We have so many clients that have become life long friends.

What do you do for fun...that has nothing to do with photography?

I love hanging out with the kids. I love seeing my kids interacting with other kids and enjoying life. I LOVE going to the movies, eating yummy food, taking family trips to Disneyland and getting pampered with massages, pedicures and manicures. :)

What do you do to keep your marriage fun?

We do things that we did when we were dating together. We see movies, we play horse on the basketball court, we eat at our favorite sushi restaurant, we eat ice cream together. We really try at least once a week to have a “date night”.

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in business to bring in clients?

We did a Bridal Show about 6 years ago, when Matt decided he wanted to start shooting weddings. We weren’t priced very high then , so we booked more than 40 Weddings from it. To be honest, we found one of our all-time favorite clients there. It was honest fate.

We left our business card with everyone we met, even our waiters. I think we gave word of mouth a new meaning, because every where we went we were telling people about our business and telling them to spread the word!

Also, we networked liked crazy. We went to all the local photographer meetings and events.

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?

This is the hardest thing for us, but we came up with a new rule and that is no talking about business when its not business time. So, in other words no talking about business when we are with the kids, or watching TV, driving to the in laws, visiting friends or at church etc. We can only chat business when we are working. It’s so easy to bring up this or that about the business at any random time, but it just takes away from the time that we have together to learn and grow together.

What is the best thing you've done to make your business successful?

We don’t give up when times are tough and we fight for what we really enjoy doing.

What do you do to keep your family strong?

We spend time together doing fun things. This past year I have been trying to be more “present” with my family. Little things like making sure their are no cell phones at the dinner table and turning off the TV during family time.

What do you do to make sure you have time to be a mom?

I have a full work day on Monday. I try to get as much as  possible done that done. If I don’t finish my to do list I will come in a few hours here and there during the week. Every other day I am 100% momma!

You travel quite a bit.  How do you make this easier on your kids?  How do they feel about how often you travel?

Traveling for us is really difficult at the beginning of the trip. We cry every time we leave and the kids cry every time we leave, but then they get over it really fast. Right now, our little ones are young, so they don’t really remember us leaving, They have so much fun with the nanny or babysitter we leave them with. We also have great families that are always willing to help, which is one of the best blessings.

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?

If instances or events come into my life that I can not change. Then I accept the fact that there is absolutely nothing I can do about it and carry on.

If an overwhelming event occurs in my life or my business that I can change, then I deal with the situation right away. I think there is always a solution to any problem. Coming up with a solution isn’t always easy, but it can always be done.

Also, having a partner in the business is really helpful. :)

What three products or things help you stay organized?

A very organized calendar.

Outsourcing things that you can afford to make your life easier. “The Tupperware Rule”. If you make time to organize the small things, like the tupperware in your kitchen is organized and each bowl has a matching lid, then your whole life will be organized.

What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?

I don’t think women in our industry should compare themselves to others. Women typically compare themselves to other women in our everyday lives and it just tears us down and we can’t reach our goals when we are feeling negatively about others.

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?

I think woman should try things they are absolutely 100% afraid of. Woman tend to take the safe and predictable route. We learn more when we face our fears ( We don’t even have to conquer our fears, just face them) as well as when we fall. Don’t be afraid to make your own path and begin your own journey. 

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more whole, content, and blissful life?

*Find joy in the simplest things. I mean the simplest things like having tooth paste or hugging your spouse or sleeping in a warm bed, or giving your kids butterfly kisses.

*Take time for yourself. It is ok to be selfish! Get a babysitter and go out with your spouse, friends, and pamper yourself. You deserve and probably need it.

*Get a hobby. As much as we all love photography, it’s not a hobby. For most of us it is a full time job that puts food on the table. For me it is dancing! I think dancing is the funnest thing and it makes me happy.

*Stop trying to please others. What is the point? I know we all need to feel loved, and we all would like to be told all day everyday that we are completely amazing at everything we do, but if we are truly happy with ourselves we wont need to find reassurance from other people.

*Hug your family. Kiss your loved ones. Bend the rules a little bit ;) (nothing illegal of course!) Reach out and serve others. We all have challenges and when we help others we tend to forget about our own.

To see more of Angie's work:

Website

Blog

***All images in this post are copyright  Angie Sloan.***

***All images in this post are copyright  Cheryl Muhr.***

NEXT WEEK: Angie Sloan

{To nominate women you'd like to see in this series please list them in the comments-or if you have a question you'd like to see in the interviews--make sure to include your info in the comment fields so that I can get in touch with you- or write to me at: davina at davinafear dot com }

As always make sure to leave comments for the women who are featured. They like comments as much as i do I'm sure...let them know if you have questions or just to say thanks! for their insight and wisdom...



You can check out the rest of the series by clicking here. Tell a friend!
 

Cheryl,  You have been in business for quite a while and also made a location change moving from one state to another.  You've also had a baby while in business...it seems like you've experienced the majority of big changes that can happen when you are a small business owner.  I'm so excited about the tips and real life experiences you have to share here.  You have done amazing things and your work is beautiful.  Thanks so much for being here on Women and Business!

How long have you been a professional photographer?

Six years.

Are you married?  Do you have children?  How many kids?

I have been married for 11 years and we have two little girls, Kennedy (almost 3) and Averi (almost 7).

How did you keep your photography business going through the birth of your children?

I started my business when my eldest daughter was just a baby, so I’ve only been through one pregnancy and birth during my career.  I shot all the through my pregnancy, up until days before I delivered.  I took a very long maternity break, during which I taught workshops and took shoots that I could do quickly and/or that my baby could be nearby in case she needed to nurse.  I began marketing myself for a full return when my baby turned a year old.

Are you in a retail space?  What made you decide on your space? Do you have pictures to show us?

I run my business out of a work/live loft in downtown Austin.  We decided on the space because of its contemporary feel, abundant natural light, urban location, proximity to great shooting locations and resale potential.

(interview continues after studio/loft images)

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house?

 After the session, I  download, flag and then upload to my proofer.  Once I get the images back from her, I add my finishing touches to the edits, crop and then batch to make a web gallery.  Then I watermark and upload to the slideshow.  Clients either phone in their orders, or email them.  Once orders are uploaded and arrive, my kids and I package and either deliver, ship, or have my client pick up at the loft.  So basically everything is in house, except for my proofing.

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot?

We talk...a LOT.  We laugh...a LOT.  We play....a LOT.  For clients, I think it’s easy to be comfortable with someone who is genuinely interested in you and your children, and I am.

What do you recommend women do who are just getting started in the industry?

I recommend they find a workshop to attend or do a day of mentoring with an established photographer.  There is so much heartache that can be avoided if you start with the right mindset and procedures in place, and I think it’s an invaluable experience for those just beginning.

What do you do for fun...that has nothing to do with photography?

My favorite thing to do these days is swim with my husband and children.  We are at the pool almost every single day.

What are you most proud of as a business woman?

I fully support my family, not with a job that I endure, but with a job that I adore.

You are the creator of The Secret Workshop.  What made you decide to start that workshop?

When I first started learning about photography, it was virtually impossible to get anyone already in the industry to give you answers to any of your questions!  Finding information about shooting, editing, workflow, marketing....it was very hard to come by, and much of the information available wasn’t even true.  Once I figured out all the industry secrets that weren’t openly shared, I figured there were other people out there just like me.  The workshop was born.

You recently moved to Austin, TX from the southeast.  You mentioned that you shot over 100 sessions since moving there barely a year ago.  How did you build your business so quickly after such a major move?

I have been shooting like a mad woman since moving here....and I feel incredible about how quickly things have grown.  Austin is a city that was relatively buffered from the economical woes of the nation, which is certainly helpful.  That, coupled with my love for meeting new people and lack of fear, has really enabled me to build my business in a short period of time.  

What was the hardest thing about moving your business to a new place?  What was the best thing about moving your business to a new place?

I think the hardest part of starting over is just that....starting over.  You have a blank book staring at you in the face and you have to really put yourself out there and risk rejection to fill it.  

The very best part of starting over is the fact that you don’t have any clients to make you second guess any changes you wish to make.  So you can raise your prices, or change a policy, or completely change your brand...and there isn’t anyone to resist that.

How do you fit workshops into your crazy schedule?

Well, I currently CAN’T.  It’s getting more and more difficult these days. Workshops did fit really well when my shooting schedule was reduced in the year following the birth of my second daughter, but now, there simply aren’t enough hours in the day.  I will likely be offering one workshop a year from now on out, since I love teaching as much if not more than I love shooting, and there is still such a demand for the workshops.

What do you do to keep shooting and teaching from overwhelming your life?  How do you make time to be a mom?

I am a mother first.  I am a photographer second.  And that is truly how I live my life.  I shoot when it’s convenient for my family.  I work on the computer after they go to sleep.  I have a husband who is beyond supportive.  And I have people in my life that I pay to do all of the things that I don’t have time to do.  

How do you get crazy, rambunctious kids to look so intently into your lens?

I lower my tone....I might even whisper...and I ask questions that aren’t funny.....very....slowly.  Or if that doesn’t work, I ask for the child look and see if my lens is cracked.

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in business to bring in clients?

I didn’t start in photography in the portrait world when I first started (I actually began shooting for the children’s division of a modeling agency), so I’ll answer with what I’ve done here in Austin.

1.I’ve met as many people as possible in my target market, even if that means operating outside of my comfort zone at times.  

2. I have several great displays in really good locations that my clients frequent.  I have as many if not more bartering relationships with businesses that my target market frequents,and these are invaluable to me.

3.  I shot a preschool located right in my target market, which was not only incredibly successful        from a financial standpoint, but also gave me a mailing list, steady stream of referrals and whole host of new clientele.

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?

My marriage stays safe from my business simply because my husband stands back and lets me do my own thing.  He is always there with great advice or support to offer should I need help ( he knows more about marketing and sales than anyone else I know), but until I do, he doesn’t interfere and he trusts that I know what I’m doing.  It works for us beautifully that way.

What is the best thing you've done to make your business successful?

If I had to name one single thing (which is very difficult considering it’s really so very many things put together that make any business successful) it would be meeting as many people as I can.  I am very much a people person and I truly enjoy spending time with my clients.

You are a mom, how old are your children?  What do you do to help them feel part of your business life? 

My children are almost 3 and almost 7.  They help me package, deliver and they are always there to offer their “opinions” on everything, from which pictures I should flag to how they like my new brochures to what they think of the earrings I choose to wear to the shoot.  Lots of my business stuff is done after they go to sleep, so they don’t even know what they are missing.

What do you do to keep your family strong?

For me, family comes above all else.  My children know this.  

You travel quite a bit.  How do you make this easier on your children?  How do they feel about how often you travel?

When we were traveling all the time, I would always plan ahead and buy a bunch of new little toys and books and games that they had never seen before.  It made trips and plane rides fun and something to look forward to.  They would get so excited to see what I had for them!  When I taught, my husband would always take the kids to amusement parks or museums.  There was never anything for them to not love.  Hotels and pools and restaurants and parks and children’s museums and aquariums....they really are starting to feel sad that we haven’t been doing as many workshops!

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?

I only do the things that bring me joy and I delegate the rest as much as humanly possibly.  There is no overwhelm possible living this way.

What three products or things help you stay organized?

My proofer.

My lab, Color Inc. who delivers so quickly and whose prints always are perfect

My group of best friends....who KNOW what needs to be done next, and remind me daily of my to-do list!

You have met personally with 100s of women.  What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?

Underestimate the value of what they do.

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?

Remind themselves daily WHY they do what they do.  If they always set their mind on that, the rest just falls away.

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more whole, content, and blissful life?

1. Put your family first. 
2. Start delegating...and stop doing the things in your life that don’t bring you joy.
3. Hire another photographer to photograph YOUR children!  
4. Laugh as much as possible.
5. Delete other local photographers’ blogs from your feed.  

 To see more of Cheryl's work:

Website

Blog

***All images in this post are copyright  Cheryl Muhr.***

***All images in this post are copyright  Shan Renee.***

NEXT WEEK: Cheryl Muhr

{To nominate women you'd like to see in this series please list them in the comments-or if you have a question you'd like to see in the interviews--make sure to include your info in the comment fields so that I can get in touch with you- or write to me at: davina at davinafear dot com }

As always make sure to leave comments for the women who are featured. They like comments as much as i do I'm sure...let them know if you have questions or just to say thanks! for their insight and wisdom...



You can check out the rest of the series by clicking here. Tell a friend!
 

Shan,  You have been working in photography since you were a young girl at your dad's side.  I love the way you are able to see and create lighting situations that are intimate and dramatic.  The effort you put into lighting gives your work a great cinematic sensibility.  You've gone through times of being too busy and come out on the other side having a stronger marriage and better life.  You have some great ideas and tips to share.  Thanks so much for being here on Women and Business!

How long have you been a photographer?

I have worked as a professional photographer since 2003.  I worked as an apprentice for one year before starting my own business.  I am focused mostly on weddings and all they entail, but I also shoot families, seniors, and maternity.

What drew you to photography?

I have loved photography for as long as I can remember.  My dad introduced me to photography when I was very young.  He was a serious hobbyist who had his own darkroom.  I would spend hours with him developing pictures from the age of about 6.  He gave me my first point and shoot when I was 7.  I took pictures of everything then we would develop them in the darkroom together. 

Is photography your only job?  Are you the primary breadwinner in your family?

Yes, photography is my only job.  There was a time when I was the primary breadwinner, but now my husband and I share the responsibilities equally.

Are you married?  Do you have children?

I am married, but I do not have children (yet).

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in
house?

My workflow is fairly simple.  After a wedding, I download and back up twice - once to an external hard drive, and once to DVD.  I sort and do basic editing in Lightroom.  Then, I choose my favorite files and fully edit them for upload to an online gallery as well as for use in slideshows and albums.  Then, my wonderful assistant designs an album and creates a DVD slideshow.  Our album designs and slideshows are custom designed for each client.  Roughly 2 weeks after the wedding, the client receives a DVD slideshow in the mail and an email with the link to their online gallery and album design.

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a
photo shoot?

I don't know that I have a specific formula for helping people feel at ease.  One thing I have found that definitely relaxes and excites my clients is to constantly exude enthusiasm about the shots as we go.  I get very excited while I am shooting, and I let it show.  I will jump around and screech with excitement (sometimes even when I'm not in love with the shot).  The enthusiasm is contagious!  And, the more confident I am, the more my clients are too! 

What do you recommend women do who are just getting started in the industry?

I think two of the best things you can do is constantly educate yourself and network!  The more you know, the more tools you have in your toolbox.  I love to constantly push myself and keep growing.  This industry is very competitive, so you must stay on top of the newest technologies and such.  Networking is also very important.  If you shoot weddings, word of mouth is extremely important.  Brides will pass your name on for a time when they are in wedding mode themselves or with their friends.  But, the people in the wedding industry think about it everyday!  It is definitely to your advantage to have a strong network with other vendors and photographers in your area.  Also, don’t ignore the business side of things!  I made the mistake early on of not keeping great records…get a good program and keep up with everything!!!!

What do you do for fun...that has nothing to do with photography?

I love to read – mostly medical mysteries, science fiction, and nonfiction.  Ted Dekker is my favorite author!  I love anything to do with water – swimming, skiing, scuba diving. 

What are you most proud of as a business woman?

The thing that makes me happiest is knowing my clients love the images they receive.  I make it a priority to know my clients and to give them a product they will be happy with. 

What do you do to keep your marriage fun? 

My husband and I are good at playing together and being silly.  We have learned to prioritize fun time together.  Also, we love to travel.  Even if we take a short overnight trip, we try to get away with each other as often as we can.  It helps us break away from the norm and feel refreshed.

You love to use dramatic light.  How do you see those great lighting situations?  What have you done to train  yourself to notice where cool light is?

The first workshop I ever went to, Joyce Wilson said, “Light is your hero.”  I have made that my philosophy for years.  I will seek out good light more than specific locations.  If I love a location but don’t like the lighting, I will create it myself.  I like to pre-visualize my sessions…I am definitely a planner.  I speak with my clients in advance about outfit choices, style, location, mood, etc.  Then, I scout locations based on the tone we are trying to achieve.  I will also plan my lighting at each spot.  Sometimes this amount of planning isn’t possible.  I think that is where training your eye is important.  I constantly look at magazines, books, websites, etc.  I like to evaluate each shot I love and decide why I like it.  Is it the light?  Pose?  Then, I try to get in the photographer’s head and see how they executed the shot.  By studying lots of shots, you train your eye.  Also, there is nothing that replaces just getting out there and trying things!

What is your best advice in using off-camera lighting?

Practice and keep it simple.  Almost all of my lighting is done with Canon 580 EXIIs and Pocket Wizards.  When I wanted to learn off-camera lighting, I kept it simple at first.  I started with one light off-camera.  After that felt comfortable, I added to it.  Practice in a low stress situation before trying to add it at a wedding or sometime stressful.  I think the most important thing is to visualize it before you shoot.  Try to determine what the light will do before you shoot.  Do you want your flash to balance the ambient situation?  Do you want your flash to be the main light?  What are you trying to achieve?  I think many people feel intimidate by flash, but if you know your equipment and what you are trying to achieve, you can create any situation you can imagine.  The first thing I wanted to learn was to light my subject to bring down the background.  So, I read and studied lighting and my equipment then went out and practiced until I was comfortable. 

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in
business to bring in clients?

Word of mouth has been my greatest advertisement.  I definitely went over and above for my first clients to achieve word of mouth.  Small things make a huge difference.  Learning how to optimize my website was also important.  I am blessed to be married to a man who knows how to do that for me.  That definitely helped things grow quickly.  Networking with other vendors was also important. I would send free prints to florists, bakers, locations, etc. 

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?

I think you have to work to achieve that.  While my business is home-based, it is separated from our living area.  You have to have some separation of home and business.  So, we plan our time each day.  It has taken years to figure it out and reach that point, but we have learned to schedule and guard our time.  I know when you are first starting or feel busy it is hard to walk away from the business.  But, it is vital to guard your time.  We have made a pact that we will have a certain amount of time each week where business is not allowed.

What is the best thing you've done to make your business successful?

I think it is vital to push yourself.  Keep learning, growing, creating.  Don’t be satisfied with the same thing.  I have a rule about going to locations a certain number of times.  Or if I return to the same place, I have to change it up.  I try not to do the same thing twice.  I think that has been important in my success.

What three products or things help you stay organized?

Financial software – Quicken or QuickBooks (whatever works for you)

Microsoft Outlook

My assistant

(I am more traditional about organization – more paper based calendars, folders and such)

What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?

Your business is important but not at the expense of your faith or family.  It can be so overwhelming to run a business.  It is also very fun and exciting.  That combination can lead to an imbalance in your life.  I believe maintaining balance is extremely important.  It can be very difficult, but in the long run, it is worth it!  Also, don’t over-promise and under-deliver!

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?

Make your own rules.  This is your business.  You have the freedom to do what you want with it!  I am currently revamping my business to add more of what I love and remove the things I don’t enjoy.  Your business doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. 

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more
whole, content, and blissful life?

Create goals and write them down

Stay organized

Maintain balance

Make time for yourself

Be yourself

To see more of Shan's work:

Website

Blog

***All images in this post are copyright  Shan Renee.***

***All images in this post are copyright  Barb Uil of Jinky Art.***

NEXT WEEK: Shan Renee

{To nominate women you'd like to see in this series please list them in the comments-or if you have a question you'd like to see in the interviews--make sure to include your info in the comment fields so that I can get in touch with you- or write to me at: davina at davinafear dot com }

As always make sure to leave comments for the women who are featured. They like comments as much as i do I'm sure...let them know if you have questions or just to say thanks! for their insight and wisdom...



You can check out the rest of the series by clicking here. Tell a friend!
 

Barb, Your work is gorgeous and natural and fun and captures the whimsy and sweetness of childhood and family relationships.  You make life and photography feel so simple and easy.  I love that you are doing such a great job managing family and business.  You make it all seem so natural!  I'm excited that you are coming to the USA for a tour of workshops...as I'm sure many other photographers are as well.  Thanks so much for being here on Women and Business!

You are married and a mom.  How many children do you have and how old are they?
I have 3 girls - 1 year, 7 years and 9 years. 

How did you get into photography?
My website use to be a "photoblog" back in the day when photoblogs were a new thing.  We were putting pics of our day to day activities on there and then it snowballed from there.

Do you have a retail space or a home studio space?  What made you settle on this choice?
I have a home office, as well as a studio that I work out of if required at another location.   I think my style of work more lends itself to this set up as I shoot as much commercially as I do for family portraits.

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house?
I am the queen of outsourcing - the only thing I dont outsource is the "taking photos" and photoshop.

 

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot?
I think its important to just be yourself.

What are you most proud of as a business woman?
I think being able to support my family soley.  Its something I never dreamed I would be able to do. My husband is a stay at home dad.

 

What do you do to keep your marriage fun?
We spend all day together, so its lucky we are great mates.  We travel a lot for work, so I think that helps us as we just stay busy and focused.

 

Your sessions are so creative.  Do you let your clients lead or do you brainstorm ideas and make plans for a session?  How much guiding do you do in a session?

Thank you! =) I do abit of both, its a collaboration.

Do you have a method to your shooting style that helps you get great action images, beautiful portrait images, and those perfect detail images all in one session?  Is there some formula or thought process you go through to make sure you see and capture all of those things in a session?  How long are your sessions, typically?

I always try to capture different angles rather then just the standard one of each scene.   My sessions usually last around 1 - 2 hours.

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in
business to bring in clients?
Blog every sesssion, reshoot when the quality wasnt up to scratch, and wear my heart on my sleeve.

Your work has a very nostalgic feel to it without having the overdone vintage look at the same time.  How do you do that?
Well, Im so pleased you think that as its really where my heart is at.  I just love the nostalgic feeling with a realistic twist, which is kind of how childhood really is.   I think my biggest thing is really trying to see throug the childs eyes. Sometimes I set up stuff too much and it takes over - I just get "pretty pictures". What I really love to do is get "pretty pictures" with a twist. And I dont acheive it every time.

You do both commercial and portrait work and workshops.  How do you fit all of them in to your schedule?
With much craziness.  hehe.

Do you have editors that work for you?  How do you keep up with the amount of time you have to spend on the computer culling, editing, and photoshopping?
I do all that stuff. I just work at the sessions slowly. I never sit down and work on one sessions to its end because I find I rush it and miss opportunities - even to brighten up a leaf that could have made a photograph sing.  So I take my time on this to ensure I dont miss things.  Other then that it doesnt take long to work on a singular photograph - these days photoshop is so nifty things can be done in a jiffy.

Do you have ordering appointments in person or do your clients purchase and see everything online?  How has this choice helped your workflow and time management?
I upload to a gallery and my clients choose from there. Im happy with this as Im not a sales person.

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?
Ahh, well...............thats a very good question.  Its not always safe. We both work very hard to juggle family and business life. Its hard work - theres no two ways about it.

 

What do you do to keep your children from feeling that they come second to your business...or computer?  

Why that’s just part of understanding mum goes to work to help support the family.  They know why Im working so hard.  We spend alot of time together and travel together always so that helps.

 

You travel quite a bit.  How do you make this easier on your children?  How do they feel about how often you travel? 

My kids have the travel bug now. Penny announced the other day that she had spent way too long at home and needed to go some where and stay in a hotel. The kids LOVE it. I think as they get older and get stronger friendship they will likely be less likely to want to come with us. We will just cross that path when it happens.

You have a tour planned to in the states.  How did that come about?  Are you bringing your children with you? 
The kids are coming - as always. We receive so many requests for workshops in the states, so we thought - why not!

What do you do to get such beautiful color? 

A mix of exposure (I have to say that..its true!), and photoshop.  My actions are at http://www.ittybittyactions.com

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed? 

I walk away.   Its important to put everything down, turn of the computer and walk away. I tend to have what we call "Down weeks" where I spend very little time working due to the heavy workload of previous weeks.

 

What three products or things help you stay organized?  

People!  I have a fabulous team of people around me - ask any workshop attendee who has witnessed the scurry of stuff that goes on. Im truly lucky.

 

What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?

Be nasty to each other online!!!!!!

 

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?

Be loving to each other online! There is so much talent, and so much work for that talent.

When are your next workshops here in the states?  

It’s in July - we are super excited.

 

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more
whole, content, and blissful life?

Let it happen and run with it, rather then seeking it out.  I tend to wait for the opportunities and so far it has worked.

Want to see more Jink Art work?

Website

Blog

***All images in this post are copyright  Barb Uil of Jinky Art.***

***All images in this post are copyright  Jessica Claire.***

NEXT WEEK: Barb Uil of Jinky Art

{To nominate women you'd like to see in this series please list them in the comments-or if you have a question you'd like to see in the interviews--make sure to include your info in the comment fields so that I can get in touch with you- or write to me at: davina at davinafear dot com }

As always make sure to leave comments for the women who are featured. They like comments as much as i do I'm sure...let them know if you have questions or just to say thanks! for their insight and wisdom...



You can check out the rest of the series by clicking here. Tell a friend!
 

Jessica, I am amazed constantly at the amount of work that you can accomplish.  You are not only a fantastic photographer who moved across the country to make your dreams come true; you've also built 2 successful companies, gotten married, and taken the photography world by storm.  I have no idea how you manage to do it all.  You are at once professional and approachable and gracious.  Thanks so much for being here on Women and Business!

You made a big leap and moved from North Carolina to California.  What inspired you to do that?  Did you know anyone in California?  Why did you pick California? 

Although I love North Carolina, I knew early on in my career that I wanted to explore a different market.  North Carolina is a state rooted in tradition, especially when it comes to weddings.  Many brides did what their sister or friends did, and didn't choose to express their personalities and individual style through their weddings. When I looked at the style coming out of California, I just fell in love with the idea that clients were actually AIMING to be different and unique--I felt that this was a better match for my own style and goals.

You recently remodeled a room in your home to be your studio.  Did you buy that particular home with a studio in mind?  Why did you opt for an in home studio rather than a retail location?  How do clients feel about meeting in your home? 

My home is very unique in that it's zoned for both commercial and residential.  So although my studio is in my home, it has a separate entrance, a sign, and a style of decor that suits my brand perfectly.  It makes it feel both homey because it is attached to my home, and still business-like as it is very separate, so I think that clients do love coming here!  I never wanted to go to an office every day--that was one of the reasons I decided to become a photographer instead of pursuing a corporate career!  I love that I can work from home and have clients meet me here.  I hope that it also makes them feel like I am accessible and down to earth.

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house? 

My workflow is very simple--I don't retouch or process any images other than the ones I use for my blog or that my clients choose for their albums or reprints.  This GREATLY cuts down on the time involved with my images afterwards, and allows me to focus all my attention on the most important images.  I have a designer that works for me and has for the past four years.  She knows my style of processing and is responsible for reprint orders and album designs.  This way, I outsource in the sense that the work is not on my own plate, but is close enough that I am able to keep a watchful eye on each item going out with my name on it.

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot?
I always try to talk to them and find out what they love about each other early on in the shoot.  I never interrupt them or stop them from talking when they get going, even if it doesn't look great in the photos.  I trade those bad photos for the GREAT ones I'm able to get later when they feel comfortable enough with me to be themselves in front of my camera.

What do you recommend women do who are just getting started in the industry?
I would recommend that any woman getting involved in the industry take a good look at who they are and who they want to be in the industry.  It's too saturated now to come in and try to be all things to all people.  You will just end up getting frustrated with your inability to please everyone,and in turn, will end up trying to constantly change your photography to suit others.  Figuring out what most resounds with you style-wise FIRST will help with the decisions you will have to make in terms of what clients you want, and whom you want to associate with.

How do you keep from feeling overwhelmed? 

I'm always in a state of overwhelm!  It works for me, because I thrive under pressure. The less I have going on, the more I feel restless like I should be doing something.  When I feel too crazy, I try to wrap up the most important things on my plate and then unplug for a day or two.  A short break can help me to feel more ready to conquer the tasks that pile up from day to day.

How do you make time for your new husband and marriage?
My husband isn't a photographer or involved with the industry at all, which is both a blessing and a curse!  In one sense, I find it hard to help him understand the importance of certain things and their implications on the industry and myself personally.  On the other hand, he is so far removed from it that it's sometimes easier to concentrate fully on him because while it's my whole world, it's a minimal part of his.  He keeps me balanced--because he is in my life, I can never get so far in over my head in the minutia and drama that the industry can bring.

What do you do for fun...that has nothing to do with photography?
I LOVE to play poker!  I find it to be such an interesting game on so many levels.  It's fun to think creatively about my strategy, and I love putting the pieces together about how my opponents might play.  When I play poker, completely different parts of my brain are in use than in my normal day to day, although it's still very creative. 

What are you most proud of as a business woman?
I'm most proud of Shootsac®.  Being able to throw my energy into building a company that actually helps people become better photographers makes me SO excited!  I am also proud of the fact that although I am an artist, I am also a business woman--it's nice to be able to say that when I never though I would.  When I graduated from college and chose art instead of a more traditional career, I figured I'd never be taken seriously.  By building Shoosac® with my business partner Keats, I feel that I can hold my own in any business conversation with people in any industry.  It's fun to be able to relate concepts and principles across those borders.

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?
I think that to some extent I don't try to keep it out--I'm lucky in that my marriage is a safe place in which to talk about the things that are stressful to me instead of keeping them bottled up within myself.  When I feel nastiness or stress starting to overflow though, I take some time for myself away from work and Jeff and try to work out what is stressing me out.  If I can get at least a part of it focused and under control, I can talk to Jeff with more clarity about what is upsetting me, and be more accepting of his help in fixing it :)

Your work continues to evolve.  We want our clients to see consistency yet we also want our work to have a living, breathing quality about it so that it doesn't become stagnant.  What core part of your work remains the same for you?
My work will always be somewhat consistent because it comes from ME!  When you are shooting what you love, you are going to be naturally drawn to certain angles, light, moments, etc that are unique to the way that you see things.  Because I have grown and I love different things than I used to, my work has evolved, but at it's core is still the same--you can look at photos I shot ten years ago and still know that I shot them.  That common thread running through my work may change with my equipment and my location, but the part of it that comes from ME is what you can recognize as consistent. 

 

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more whole, content, and blissful life?
1.  Never compromise who you are to please anyone but yourself.

2.  Spend the first $1000 you make but don't need for bills on something completely frivolous that you have always wanted.  Choose carefully--for the rest of your life you will look at it 

     and remember the day you became able to give yourself a gift that means something.

3. Don't worry so much about the future that you don't enjoy the present

4.  Have at least one goal so big you are pretty sure you will never reach it.  Then try as hard as you can to get there

5.  Take time out for yourself every week to do something you LOVE doing for yourself, that nobody else depends on you to do

To see more of Jessica's work:

blog
shootsac®
workshops
blog themes

***All images in this post are copyright  Jessica Claire.***