four kids under 7.

Kiran and I had chatted back and forth through email for quite awhile when we finally met.  We wanted to meet up for some time but schedules just weren't working out.  We decided to do a photo shoot of her hanging out at home with her girls before her next baby was born.  I had no idea when we started talking that we would end up doing the shoot and meeting for the first time the day before she was induced!  

Kiran is amazing; juggling being the co-publisher/editor of Little Ones Magazine, three fun little girls, a sweet new baby boy, and many other little projects.  She is living a very full life.  After hearing about everything she has going on I have a feeling I'm not the only that's wondering how she does it all!  Kiran, thanks so much for being part of this series and taking the time to share.

You have a lot going on both in business and with your family.  What does a typical day look like for you between family and running your business?
Gosh; my days are absolutely crazy these days with a newborn.  My little guy still gets up a few times in the night - so I'd say that I'm up around 1 a.m., 4 a.m. and again at 7 a.m. My husband helps me get our first grader off to school, and then I tackle getting the 4- and 2-year-old to preschool (3 days a week) or spend time with them til our sitter comes. On our "sitter days", she is here for 5 hours. Working out of the house allows me to focus as needed without added interruptions.  I feel I get lots more done working out of the house vs. an office and am thankful for that!  After the sitter leaves, or on preschool days after everyone is up from naps/home from school, I spend the late afternoons with the family running kids to extracurricular activities, etc., making dinner, baths, etc. - you know, the general routine. My evenings always consist of a few more hours of work after the kids are in bed.

What have you learned is the most important aspect of running a business?
In my case, it's flexibility.  Running a business while managing a household with 4 kids under the age of 7 takes quite a bit of multitasking. Always focus on what you are working on - when it's work time, it's work time - no personal phone calls, errands, etc.  When it's play time, focus on fun and let your work go.  By the way, I'm still working on this part!

What do you think is a vital part of the day with your family that you try not to miss?  
As crazy as it is, dinner time and thereafter is very important to me.  My husband is not always home for dinner, so I try to engage the girls in conversation and share thoughts from the day. Putting the kids to bed is also a cherished moment - not because they are headed off to sleep, but it's a great time to connect with them and share thoughts from the past 24 hours. The hugs and kisses are an added bonus!

With so much going on, what keeps you organized?
Sadly enough, I keep most things in my head.  I've had an organizer but have transferred over to my iPhone/calendar on my computer.  But I generally store things in the good ol' brain which is not a great thing when you are suffering from baby brain.

What are you most proud of?
I'm most proud of starting a publication from scratch and making it successful from day 1. We have been very fortunate to have weathered the economic storm, and for that I am most thankful to loyal advertisers and readers. I can't tell you happy it makes us to bring our readers something that they enjoy while at the same time bringing our advertisers the awareness they are seeking.

What top five pieces of advice would you give women business owners?
1. Look to your audience/clients for direction. They will help you understand how to make your business better with their desires. In our case, we initially started off as a publication for 0-6 year-olds.  Our readers basically told us that they have kids up to the age of 9 or 10, which helped us tailor our product to them.  It was a win-win.
2. Customer service, customer service.  This is an integral part of the equation!
3. Learn from your mistakes.
4. Don't be afraid to take that initial leap; you'll only find out if you try.
5. Seek other women and/or local business owners.  We're all in this together and can be stronger by supporting each other.

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The Bump Maternity Boutique.

I am so glad to have met Clair.  She's a great, patient, thoughtful mom and a smart, organized, creative business woman.  She knows what she's looking for and is great at making things happen to achieve her goals.  I've been impressed with her love for her family and her passion for being a small business owner.  I knew she was doing great things but when she answered the following questions I was in even more awe of the way she makes time for the people that matter most to her and at the same time can juggle with graciousness and ease the 1st anniversary of her shop, The Bump Maternity Boutique, and all of the other unexpected hurdles there are to jump every day when you have an increasingly successful, hip, chic, beautiful shop.

The Bump Maternity Boutique offers women the opportunity to look beautiful and stylish while they are pregnant.  The latest in fashion for a day at the office, jetting downtown for a day of shopping, or going to dinner on the town are some of the lovely pieces you'll find in Clair's shop.  You won't want to miss The Bump Maternity Boutique whether you just found out you're going to have your own little bump or if you're just weeks away from actually seeing your little one. 

I had the chance to photograph Clair and her family and ask her some questions:

What does an average day and week look like for you between home and business as far as what time you get up, getting your family ready for the day, what days you are at the shop, scheduling time for what is important in business and family, etc.?

Balancing a brand new store and two young children is nothing short of challenging.  When we began to really pursue the shop I was pregnant with Macy and Caroline was just over a year old.  Looking back at that time, that was easy :) I was working full-time, shopping for the store in my spare time, enjoying my baby girl and pregnant with the second.  Macy was born in January '10; while on maternity leave form my full-time job, I spent my days in the store setting up and receiving stock, supplies, equipment and such.  We opened our doors in April and I went back to work for a few months.  I made The Bump my full time job in June and that is when my time management skills became important.  One of my personal goals for owning my own business was to have more time to spend with my family.  So it was important for me to schedule my days off to coincide with my husbands time off and to get as much time with the girls as possible.  I remember some very rocky mornings where everything felt rushed and hectic, getting my self, a newborn and a sassy 19 month old ready to leave the house.  My husband and I took a weekend away, and as we normally do during our alone time, we re-evalute our priorities, goals and overall life.  It was then that I decided to find a way 'enjoy' my morning time with my girls and get some true balance.  

So my typical day starts around 7am, by this time Carolina has usually climbed into our bed and gone back to sleep, Macy is still sleeping and I jump in the shower before they wake up.  Caroline likes to stay in bed after she wakes up so we lay there and talk and snuggle.  Then we start to hear babbles from Macy's bed and Caroline gets a big grin on her face and says 'Listen, I hear Macy!'  We go in their room and see Macy (usually bouncing and smiling) eager to get out an play.   Macy gets out and the girls play in there room while I finish getting ready for my day, usually have to get them snacks and juice because Macy is hungry every minute of the day!  So this is the time of my day that use to be stressful and rushed, because the girls go to a day school that serves breakfast from 8:30-9am and I used to rush to get them there.  Now we play and take our time (while snacking).  Caroline picks out her clothes, which can be quite amusing and I just let her wear what she likes.  We have gone to school with big girl panties on the outside of our pants or with a princess dress over our clothes, but she is happy and that makes me happy.  I get Macy dressed and we head out the door.  The interesting thing is that my relaxed and enjoyable way usually has us arriving at school at 8:45 (same time as the stressful/rushed way) so they get breakfast with their friends and I get a fun morning with my babies!  I usually schedule myself to be in the store Monday - Friday 10am-4pm, with an occasional weekend out of town for market.  I usually schedule day time coverage at the store on Tuesday so that I can run personal errands, pay bills and manage the house.  Tuesdays are also the day that I do office work for my husband's cleaning business.  My day in the store can be challenging as I work with customers, receive product, merchandise the store, plan for the next seasons.  In between all of that, I am searching for the cutest and latest things in maternity & baby.  I have a handful of local, creative crafters that I am always sending pictures of new ideas for products.  I LOVE having my own 'esty-esque' shop inside my store, showcasing local talent and providing one-of-a-kind gifts!  After my day at the store is done, I pick up the girls from school and we meet 'Daddy' at home for his turn to play!  I cook dinner (or attempt to cook dinner, I make no promises) and we all eat dinner together.  Because my Macy is a one year old messy monster we go straight from the table to bath time - Macy loves it and 9 out of 10 times Caroline really enjoys it too!  They play and splash and laugh and spit water on each other.  After baths, we start to have some quite time.  We turn off some lights, read books, and rest before going to bed.  If we are lucky, Chris and I get an hour to talk and prepare for tomorrow before we are off to sleep.  

What keeps you organized?

My iPhone, I update my calendar and set everything to alert me.  I have a calendar at home, at the store and on my phone.  And thank goodness for emails, I don't usually delete emails because I am constantly searching through old ones for contacts and such.  I also make lists!  I end up with scraps of paper filled with things to do for the store, ideas I see while I'm driving around or things I need to buy to cook dinner.

How do you make time for your family and also grow your business?

 Besides scheduling myself to be home in the evenings and weekends with my family, I love to bring my kids to work.  Macy is almost old enough to come to work without another person to help me, which is exciting.  Caroline loves to come to the store and help out.  I keep her backpack in the car packed with essentials in case she has a rough morning.  There have been a few days that she has wanted some extra mommy time and asked to go work with me, and I LOVE that I have the option to say 'yes'.   As for growing the business, my business partner is my mom, so it has definitely created a stronger and new bond between us.  We talk on the phone multiple times a day, exchanging ideas, thoughts and to-do's and we send a lot of emails late night after the kids have gone to bed.  I am lucky to have her believe in my dream and help me get it off the ground.  She handles all the marketing, advertising and book-keeping.  So that frees up my time to focus on product assortment, generating sales, and training our great staff!  Without her I would not have the ability to do all that I do with my children!

What are you most proud of as a business woman?

I am so proud to show my girls that there are so many opportunities out there for women.  Also, I proud of the store as a whole.  I usually drive around the store looking at it as a customer and am filled with happiness to know that I had a part in creating it.

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

1-Prioritize and re-evalute your situation regularly.  Things change and what worked yesterday may not be true tomorrow.
2-Don't let the little things get to you.  I have always been able to move past obstacles and create a new plan
3-Set goals! and write them down!  We (my husband and I) set goals for business growth, future plans, and personal things too.
4-Get away. (without the kids)  Take a day trip, weekend trip or a hour to yourself.  I think it is important for us and it always inspires us to come up with new ideas.
5-Have fun!  "In the end its not the years in your life that count, its the life in your years" Abe Lincoln

Friend The Bump Maternity Boutique on Facebook!  Click here.

**all images in this post copyright: Jaquilyn Shumate**
 

{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.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!

Jaquilyn, I am so lucky to have this series because I get to hear about fantastic photographers like you from readers who want to see you on Women and Business.  You are an amazing person, photographer, and business woman.  Your sincerity and passion about being true to your creative self is so inspiring.  Over the last few weeks I've also been so grateful for your efficiency and quickness with getting your interview to me.  Not only that, I've loved looking at your images, the emotion you see and capture, and the sweet and endearing kindness you have with your clients and anyone else who contacts you.  I wish you the best...especially this week. Thank you so much for being on Women and Business today!

What led you to become a professional photographer?
I have been heavily influenced by art and photography for as long as I can remember, but it wasn't until I discovered Amelia Lyon's work in 2005 that I realized I could make a living out of doing something I was passionate about. Before her, I thought wedding and portrait photography was cheesy and stale. I just hadn't seen what could be done.

When did you and your husband decide to become a photography team?  
After Travis graduated from college we moved to Tacoma. I decided it was time to start building my business, and I needed his help. He's brilliant at post processing and has always loved photography. We discovered we worked really well as a team! I feel so fortunate.

What's wonderful about working together?
Travis is my other half. His strengths are my weaknesses. When we're on a shoot we bounce ideas off each other and have great chemistry which I believe helps our clients feel more comfortable in front of the camera. We joke a lot and show affection. The clients seem to warm up and can be more natural.

What isn't wonderful about working together?
Sometimes we drive each other crazy. If we both have differing ideas it can be a struggle. It can also be challenging to have a date night or conversation free of business talk. We're always thinking of ways to improve and stretch ourselves, but it is more important to be husband and wife and leave business at the door.

Are you in a retail space or home studio?  What made you decide on the space that you have? (please include pictures)
We have a home studio/work space. Since we mainly shoot on location and live just a few blocks from downtown, it just seems to make more sense to work from home. Our dining room/office has huge windows and hardwood floors, which is so lovely because even on an overcast day (which is frequent) we have so much light. It really is cheery.

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house?  You seem so busy, how do you keep up with all of your editing?
We handle all of the editing at this point, which seems to be working out. Typically I will download the cards and cull. Travis batch edits the raw files then gives them our personal look. He works so hard to maintain the balance between fresh and classic, elegant and natural. I unfortunately don't have the attention span for that. He really balances me out.

What do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot?
More than anything we get to know them. Every couple is different, and we recognize that we need to approach them from a different angle. We make jokes and have fun. We like to go out to dinner, or meet at a coffee shop for the client meeting, and really, just become friends with our clients. We are fortunate to have clients that have become some of our closest friends.

Do you have a chart or some kind of system that helps you keep up with all of your photo shoots?  What does it look like?
I use my iCal calendar which is always visible on my screen. I also have a calendar whiteboard on our fridge. We are looking for a better system, but for now, this seems to work.

What do you recommend women do who are just getting started in the industry?
To women just getting their foot in the door, I would recommend they shoot every day. Every single day. Go for a walk around your neighborhood. Drive around town. Sometimes I would just drive and drive, looking for inspiration and new locations. Create a portfolio you are proud of and only use the BEST. No one cares to see the same image in three different edits or in the same pose. Diversify. Don't be afraid to approach people and ask to take their photograph. Push yourself and don't be afraid to put yourself in uncomfortable situations. That's the only way to grow. You must be confident. If you're not, your client won't have confidence in you. As a woman it can be difficult to not compare yourself and your work to others. But this will destroy you. You can only compare yourself to your very best self. So stick with that. And strive to be the photographer that YOU would hire. There is so much negativity in the world, but we have the power to make it beautiful. Use that power!

I read that you went to art school.  So many photographers are self-taught with very few being formally trained; in what ways do you think art school has been an advantage in the industry?
This is an interesting question actually. I took one photography class and it was in high school. I was a senior, and I had already taken art for three years, so the photo teacher put me in advanced photo. Which in ways was a disadvantage because I had to teach myself how to use the camera. I had my grandfather's Canon AE-1, and it was completely manual. While my classmates were learning how to manipulate their film and using different techniques in the darkroom, I was spending hours before school, lunchtime and after school trying to play catch up. It proved to be a rewarding experience.

In college I took painting, ceramics (I was terrible), art history and other classes. Art school has given me formal knowledge of different styles of art, artists, and media. It taught me that creativity is limitless.

What do you do for fun...that has nothing to do with photography?
I love to ride my bike. When it's warm and sunny out, we love to ride around town or to the farmers market. Running helps me relax, feel healthy and sleep well. We love playing scrabble. (Travis beats me every time!) I used to paint and create mixed media art. One of my goals is to make more time for that creative outlet. We love playing games with our friends. I love to bake. I am on a gluten free diet (not by choice), so I love to find new recipes for cakes, cookies, muffins and much more!

You are friends with quite a few other couples who are photography teams.  How have those relationships formed?  And how have they helped you as a couple and as a business?
We got to know many of them through Twitter. I think the whole photography community has Twitter to thank. We have met some of our dearest friends that way. It's amazing how tight the community is. We're constantly referring people to our friends when we're booked and vice versa. We have photographed some of our photog friends and they have photographed us. This has provided us some amazing experiences. We have learned and grown so much from these relationships. We are so blessed to have amazingly talented and genuine friends.

What are you most proud of as a business woman?
Honestly, I am proud that I am chasing my dream. I have always dreamt big, but had a hard time with follow through. We have created a company that is a mirror image of my personality.

What do you do to keep your marriage fun?
We go on lots of dates. Sometimes it's out to a nice restaurant and a walk around town. Sometimes it's a plate of cookies and milk with Arrested Development in our pajamas. We sleep in on Saturdays when we can and cuddle. He is my very best friend, and I am his. There is no other person on the planet I'd rather spend my time with, let alone forever!

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in business to bring in clients?
Word of mouth. We have relied so much on friends, family and clients telling their friends, family and clients about our work. And it has worked! We want to give our clients an amazing experience so they will tell everyone they know. We try to be very natural when photographing clients, to give them photos they love. We include the cost of the print rights and digital files in the portrait session fee, so they get what they want. We have always tried to be up front with our clients, which has proved to be a successful way of doing business.

How do you keep your marriage safe from the stresses of your business?
Our business and marriage are separate. Completely. Even though my business partner is my spouse, there is a very defined line. We work hard, and we work together. We talk about concerns and establish goals. If something isn't working or there is an issue, we talk until we find a resolution. My marriage will always come before my business. Without fail.

What is the best thing you've done to make your business successful?
We're definitely not yet at the level we're trying to achieve, but the growth we've seen can most likely be attributed to trusting our instincts, working together as a team, and balancing commissioned work with personal projects that help stretch and inspire us.

What do you think makes you different in the industry?  How did you hone in on that bit of specialness about you?
We are surrounded by many great photographers who each have their own strengths and styles. Our goal is to maintain a strong balance between artistic initiative and strong client relationships. There is something so special about documenting love and the joy that surrounds it, and I hope our joy mirrors that of our clients.

You have a beautiful website and great blog that are seamless in their look.  How did you find a graphic designer, focus on what look you wanted, and know what would be a great look and feel for your business identity?
One of the greatest compliments I get is how our brand perfectly reflects my personality. We worked closely with our designer, <a href="http://www.evanmade.com/">Evan MacDonald</a>, over a long period of time to clearly establish who we are as photographers and people. (This was eased by the fact that Evan and Travis grew up together and have been extremely close since childhood.) We sent him envelopes of material that inspired us. We chose not to look at what other photographers were doing with their branding, but instead what represents us. I feel that our branding and logo reflect our love for vintage style, inviting lines and organic patterns.

What do you do to keep your family strong?
We try to pray together every night. We talk to each other, cook together and spend lots of time together. I think every single one of those things are crucial for a happy marriage.

It seems that you travel quite a bit.  What are your top 5 traveling tips?
1. Always carry trail mix. Having a gluten free diet means I can't eat most of the airport food. When we have a layover and I haven't eaten, trail mix gives me that boost I need to carry on.
2. Never check your camera gear. Carry as much of it as possible with you on the plane.
3. Get to the airport with plenty of time to kill. You can always catch up on editing and/or people watching!
4. Invest in a nice airplane pillow. I can't stay awake on the plane, so I may as well be comfortable.
5. Never fly Delta.

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is inevitable at times. Exercising helps me clear the brain and prioritize. I like to make to-do lists. I work on accomplishing at least the most crucial things. If there are things I didn't check off, there is always tomorrow. And I'm totally okay with that.

What three products or things help you stay organized?
Haven't quite mastered that one. My computer keeps me pretty organized. I have my folders neatly compartmentalized. A messy desktop drives me crazy! I have a Kelly Moore "Classic" bag -- that thing is amazing! I love that I can keep all my cards, cables and lenses organized, while papers, contracts and my iPad fit perfectly in the back pocket! 

What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?
I think we all need to avoid becoming comfortable and complacent in our work. It's easy to give excuses and compare yourself to those around you, but it DOES NOT benefit you.

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?
Maintain their femininity and avoid degrading themselves. Look outside of the industry for inspiration.

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to have a more whole, content, and blissful life?
1. Make time for yourself and your family every single day. They are what matter's most.
2. Shoot for yourself. In order to keep your work fresh and fun for you, you need to have personal projects going. It's crucial to stay alive creatively. It's way too easy for us right-brainers to get in a rut!
3. Get enough sleep.
4. Exercise, pray and meditate.
5. Remember what inspired you to get into the business of photography. For me, it was my love and passion to capture a moment and keep it forever. It will always be a passion of mine whether I am getting a pay check or not.

To view more of Jaquilyn's work:

Website

Blog

**all images in this post copyright: Jaquilyn Shumate**

**all images in this post copyright: Laura Siebert. (unless otherwise noted)**
 

{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.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...

NEXT WEEK: Jaquilyn Shumate

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

Laura, I discovered your work only a few months ago when another photographer friend was gushing over your photographs.  I went to take a look and fell in love with the beautiful playfulness, whimsy, and authenticity of your images. I've been waiting for your interview to arrive in my inbox and have loved the chance to read about how you manage 2 studios, your effort to shoot for yourself, providing for a family, and your no nonsense, move ahead, and have fun attitude.  Thank you so much for being on Women and Business today!

You have 2 studios in two different cities.  Are they both storefront locations?  What made you decide to have two studio locations?
Neither of my studios are the boutique style storefront type.  My mantra (though I'm not sure if it's out of uniqueness or laziness) is function over fashion.  While I LOVE seeing other's amazing boutique style studios (Joyce Smith and Marie Cox come to mind), it's not something I have ever taken the time or budget to do.  My St. Louis studio is a residential style urban loft in a mixed use building in the hip and trendy loft district.  It is set up like a living loft and I shoot both lifestyle and studio there.  It has a queen bed with a white down comforter and lots of fun throw pillows.  Although I didn't foresee our move to Denver when I got the St. Louis loft in 2007, it has turned out to be a blessing as it doubles as my hotel when I come to St. Louis for sessions.

photo taken by Laura's studiomate: Don Cudney

My Denver studio is quite different.  It is a large warehouse style studio, very much like those you see in LA and NYC.  The ceilings are tall enough to accomadate large production equipment.  It's much different to shoot in than my StL loft.  I often have to block off some of the light coming in to achieve any sort of shadowing.  The Denver studio is really fun because it sits on top of (and shares an entrance with) an eclectic antique store from which I can rent or borrow items.

What does your workflow look like?  Do you outsource or keep everything in house? 
My workflow is fairly simple.  I do my own editing but outsource all printing and framing.  I get asked about my editing style all the time but I'm not really sure why mine is much different than any one else's.  I don't have any magic/secret formulas or actions.  I've been told by some private mentorship attendees that it is more about the way I see things that need adjusting vs. how I actually adjust them.  If that makes sense (; 
After editing, I present an online slideshow and ordering cart.  My clients get 7 days to place their order.  I do phone consultations when necessary but I don't do any in person sales appointments.  After ordering, I place the orders with my vendors and have them sent to the appropriate studio.  I have a delivery person in St. Louis that packages and hand delivers for me.  I deliver my own in Denver because my client volume here still allows me the time to do it personally.  I do have a client coordinator who takes care of keeping me organized and also takes care of everything from initial inquiry through the session day for both studios.

Your images have such a playful whimsy about them and at the same time feel authentic.  What do you do to achieve that and what do you do to help your clients be so comfortable with you during a photo shoot? 
Thank you!  I think that's every photographer's goal: authentic, emotional images. I truly believe that photography is much more of a social science than anything else.  When I meet photographers whose work I admire, I always notice the same thing;  they are authentic people.  They look you in the eye when they speak to you and wait for your answers with interest on their faces.  I try to do the same with my clients.  I really and truly try to get to know them in the small window of time that I am with them.  I start by sending them a pre-session questionnaire that asks about their family.  I also ask them what they expect from me and their final images.  During the session, I try to draw from that.  For example, if they are a very active family that talked about how they love to be silly together then I will try to capture images with more movement.  On the other hand, if they said "We love spending quiet time together reading and snuggling" then my images will take on a more peaceful, quiet, intimate feel.  Another thing that helps tremendously is that a lot of my business is repeat clients.  I know what they liked (and purchased) from the previous session (;

A large portion of your business is commercial work.  How did you get started? 
I think I started the way most portrait photographers do; a company here or there contacted me about using an image or two that they had seen on my website. That led to more stock requests, which led to assignment projects, etc.  My first really big campaign was for a clothing company that I shot over 8 days in England in Oct 08.  Since then, I have shot for other clothing brands, child product brands, magazines, books, greeting cards etc.


How do you juggle commercial work and family sessions?  It seems like so much to keep straight! 
They don't have to be completely separate. Many times on a family session I will shoot the first 95% as a portrait session and the last 5% doing something a little more commercial/editorial with them.  It helps keep my creative side active and provides me with stock images (should the family be ok with it).  I always get specific permission for specific uses from parents whether I have a model release or not.  Generally speaking, I spend 70% of my year shooting portraits.  Commercial work does not come along as often but it sure is fun when it does!


What do you recommend women do who are just getting started in the industry?
Make friends who are both at your level and those who are a few years ahead of you in their journey.  Some of my greatest friends are those who started their business in 04-06.  I have been able to share ups and downs with them throughout our growing pains years.  It's also great to get insight from those who are several years ahead of you.  However, it's important not to look for handouts from the people who have gone before you.  Instead of asking generalized questions that sound like you have not done any legwork like "How can I get my pictures to look like yours"; maybe ask something like "What are 2 things you wish you knew 3 years ago regarding pricing"  There are SO many new photographers now and, while most working professionals realize that they were once just starting out, they often get annoyed by the constant flow of basic questions flooding their inbox.  Be specific, be creative and be respectful of time.  Another piece of advice for those just beginning their business journey (this is assuming that they have already mastered photography itself) is to have pride in your work and take ownership of your prices.  Be confident that what you are charging is what you are worth.  There will always be someone who is cheaper.  Your attitude should be "I'm worth it".  Know it in your heart and your clients will respect it too.  You may not get every booking. I still get grumpy people who complain about my rates before booking with someone cheaper.  I'm totally fine with that because I know the people who come to me are looking for my work, not a deal.

What are you most proud of as a business woman? 
I guess I am proud of how far I have come in 5 years with no photography background or formal training.  I was a Pediatric ICU nurse for 5 years prior to starting my business.  So many photographers (portrait and commercial) are struggling right now, I feel blessed to be able to support my family of 4 on my photography.

You have two boys.  How old are they?  How do they manage traveling between two cities all of the time?  Do you live in one city most of the time? 
My boys are 5 and 9.  They don't travel with me.  We moved to Denver from St. Louis in June 2009.  We go back to St. Louis as a family a couple times a year but when I travel there for business, the boys stay home with my husband.  He is a firefighter and is still looking for a job here in Colorado.  I won't lie, it has been really nice having him home (:  We are blessed that our boys are always with one of us.  If it wasn't for that, I wouldn't travel nearly as much.  My travel schedule isn't too bad. I go to St.Louis about 15 times a year.  I usually leave on Thursday and come back on Monday when I go.  I do have to miss some soccer, football, etc but not too much. 

What are the top three things you did when you were first getting started in business to bring in clients? 
I don't really do any marketing so I really 100% on word of mouth referrals.  So the main thing I have always done and will continue to do is exceed expectations from start to finish.  I want clients to look at their friends images and think "Wow, I want something like that of my family" and then when they see their images, I want them to cry and think "That is even more beautiful than I could have ever imagined."  By going beyond expectations, my hope is to create "client evangelists" who market for you every day.  For example, they are at a school function and see a mom who is pregnant and they approach her to tell her she needs to contact me for a newborn session (true story).

Do you shoot film or strictly digital? What is her favorite post processing action or formula that you can't live without? 
I shoot only digital for clients.  I used to shoot film for personal stuff but haven't in a long time.  I've been thinking about experimenting with a medium format camera.  Just haven't found the time.  As far as actions... the only think I use consistently is Totally Rad's Yin/Yang.  It's a dodge/burn on mask layers and a nice starting point for all images.

In your post processing what have you done to save the most time? 
Switching to Raw actually saved me the most time.  I switched about a year into my business.  It's so much easier to make bulk adjustments to color and exposure, then just make minor edits to each image individually. I still use ACR but have been "nudged" by several colleagues to switch to Lightroom.  We'll see...

What is the best thing you've done to make your business successful? 
Two things, which I have already touched on briefly:  One, I try to exceed every client's expectations.  If they walk away from the experience getting exactly what they think they paid for, I feel like I've failed.  I want to knock the socks off of everyone in terms of final product and service throughout the experience.  Two, I have owned my prices and appreciate my own worth which contributes to my overall brand identity and value.  I don't run sales or specials, I don't play favorites (except for priority booking at peak times when clients who have had a session in the past 18 months get first dibs on premium dates).  All of my clients are special and valued.  It is a fine line to walk but you CAN be firm and proud as well as fair and approachable when it comes to prices and policies.

I am in love with your work.  Do you offer workshops or mentoring?
Thank you.  I offered private mentorships in 2010 which I loved but wasn't able to get very many photographers through due to time and schedule.  For 2011, I will be hosting a few very intimate workshops (8-10 people) on different topics such as "studio style natural lighting", "newborns", "capturing intimate family connections", etc.  I may also be offering online photoshop instruction. Anyone interested in any of these can contact me at laura@laura-siebert.com

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?
If you find someone who knows can you please let me know (;

What three products or things help you stay organized? 
My client coordinator!, google docs allow me to track clients as they progress from inquiry to final delivery, and madmimi.com allows me to have an online databse of my clients that myself, my client coordinator, my framer and my delivery girl can all access.

What is something that you think women in the industry should not do?
Feel guilty about pricing.  I've heard so many women photographers say that they feel bad because their old clients can't afford them if they raise prices (or something along those lines).  We need to remember that we are running a business and not everyone will be able to afford our services. If you really want to give back, then find a cause that you want to photograph for charity (sick kids, adoptive families, military personnel, etc).  But the rest of the time, run a BUSINESS and don't feel guilty about it.

What is something that you think women in the industry should do?
Network with other women but ALSO with men and with photographers who are shooting different genre. Get outside your "circle of friends" once in a while and see what the rest of the photography world is up to.  I use facebook (and phone, email, text) to keep up with my women child photographer friends.  I try to use twitter to follow those photographers and industry professionals who I don't follow elsewhere (men photogs, commercial photographers, graphic artists, copywriters,etc)


I love your vintage outdoor circus concept that you photographed.  Was that a concept you did for yourself or for a client?  Will you tell us about your process? How did you come up with the idea, how did you find the children, did you hire a stylist, did you have assistants, lighting set ups, etc.?  With an already busy schedule how do you fit in pulling all of this together? 
Thanks so much!  At least twice a year, I try to conceptualize, develop, style and implement a shoot entirely for me.  The circus shoot evolved from me seeing the antique carousel animals in the antique store below my studio.  I knew I wanted to use them and it went from there.  Wovenplay was the obvious choice for stylish, whimsical clothing.  As for models, I found most through friends of friends.  I prefer to work with "regular kids" vs signed models whenever possible.


Laura, you have a beautiful “Entwined” series.  Please tell us about it.
In 2008 I shot a series of images for a solo exhibit that showed at an art gallery in St. Louis.  It received some (brief) national attention when some runners from the United Nations torch run stopped in for a ceremony.  However, I really would like to spread the images around more. I am working on trying to get a book published with these images and images from a second series I plan on shooting sometime soon.  The Entwined series directly evolved into my signature Simplicity style of shooting families and newborns (shirtless or in white camisoles with arms entwined on grey seamless).  I am including a couple Entwined images as well as a couple Simplicity images.

To see more of Laura's Work:

Commercial Website

Portrait Website

Blog

**all images in this post copyright: Laura Siebert. (unless otherwise noted)**
 

**all images in this post copyright: Andrea of Pink Sugar Photography. **
 

{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.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...

NEXT WEEK: Laura Siebert

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

Andrea,   You were nominated as someone that should be part of Women and Business and I'm so glad!  I had not know of you or your work until I clicked the link that was included with your nomination.  And I have to say I'm in love.  I'm drawn into seeing the lovely and fun holiday decorating you do around your home as well as the photography work that you do.  You are talented and funny and your way of capturing couples and family is beautiful. Thank you so much for being on Women and Business.  Thank you!

How did you become a professional photographer?

I was actually hired (on my wedding day!) by my own wedding photographer. He was looking for a second shooter and although I didn't have any experience, he liked my creativity and took a chance on me. At the time I didn't know the first thing about using a DSLR, or to be honest, about photography in general but I'd always loved taking pictures so I was crazy excited. I spent a season working with him and spending all of my spare time either practicing or reading about photography. The following year I started up Pink Sugar and four years later, here we are!


Were you a professional photographer before Lila Claire was born?  If not, how did you make that transition?

We found out we were expecting Lila two weeks before I finished university and was finally going to be able to focus on Pink Sugar full time. I shot 24 weddings (would have been 25 had Li not arrived a month early…) that summer/fall and then took six months off to get to know my girl. After Lila was born, I knew I didn't want to be away from my family every weekend of the summer so I started limiting wedding bookings and just naturally transitioned into shooting more portraits.


What type of event do you shoot most?

I shoot lots of engagements, and also a lot of young families. My business seems to have paralleled my own life a little bit: as a newlywed I photographed primarily weddings; after Lila was born I began shooting more maternities and newborns; and now that Lila is a little older, I'm shooting a larger percentage of families with toddlers and young children.


How have you cultivated the portrait side of your business?

I've been lucky enough to work with many of my clients through their engagement and wedding, and then again as their families begin to grow. It's really nice to form relationships with people and get welcomed back into their families time after time.  

As well, (this one is pretty obvious but it didn’t click for me right away so I’m going to share anyways) be sure to share what you want to shoot! The moment I started blogging baby photos and family portraits, I began getting more inquiries for those types of sessions!


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

I think it is so important to keep in mind that every client is a unique individual and every session will be different; what works to make one person comfortable might do just the opposite for another. I try to make an effort to get to know each client on a personal level so that I can make those distinctions. I spend a lot of time chatting and asking questions, I laugh a lot, I give feedback, I really try to connect with whoever is in front of my camera on any given day. Once you make that connection, comfort [usually] follows naturally.


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

Be yourself. Try to find your own voice rather than  imitating somebody else's style. Shoot whatever makes YOUR heart happy and let your personality shine through. Chances are, what YOU love will be loved by other people as well, and those people are the ones you want as your clients.


What have you done to grow as a photographer?

I would say that most things I do on a day to day basis play a part in my growth. Some of the more obvious ways I've grown as a photographer are through workshops, reading, shooting all the time, and spending time with other photographers. Less obvious but perhaps more importantly, I find that challenging myself creatively in both photography and other mediums (crafting, sewing, designing) helps me to grow as an artist. Most recently I've started a personal daily(ish) photoblog that challenges me to pick up my camera, document life and create art every day.


How have you grown as a mother?

I feel like I'm growing as a mother every minute of every day. Lila teaches me new things about myself and the world all the time -- I am so lucky to be her momma.


Have you attended workshops?  What are your favorites?

I've been to a handful of workshops in the last five years but one stands out way above the rest for me. I attended a Bebbinar early on in my career and Jen and Steve provided me with a ton of tools and encouragement to ensure I was on the right track. I can't say enough about these two and I would highly recommend their workshop to anybody!


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

Crafting, sewing, decorating -- being creative makes me happy! I also have a bit of a weakness for shopping (particularly online) and I love spending quality time with my little family and my awesome girlfriends.


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

No secret formula for this one, I've just worked really hard to make my clients happy. When they're happy, they tell their friends, and then I work hard to make their friends happy too.


Do you travel often?  How do you make this easier on your children?  How do they feel about how often you travel?

I don't travel all that often for work, but when I do, I almost always bring Mark and Lila along. I think they like that :)


You have a fantastic blog following who consistently comment.  How have you grown your blog readership?

Thank you :) You know, I'm not really sure how that happened. When I was first starting out, long before I had a blog, I was quite active on Flickr and I think a lot of my blog followers have been following me since then. I also try really hard to blog regularly so there aren't any lulls in posts and I always encourage my clients to share their sessions with their friends when they are featured.  I love my blog readers!


Are you in a store front studio or a home studio?  What made you decide on the space you have? (please provide pictures)

I shoot all of my sessions on location either outdoors or in my client's homes, and spend the rest of my time working in a home office. At this point in time it just doesn't make much sense for me to have a studio.


What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?

Like most, I struggle with this a lot. Because I work from home, it's often hard to separate work and family and I kept finding that when I was working I felt guilty for neglecting my family, and when I was spending time with my family I felt guilty for neglecting my work. This past fall I put Lila into a childcare program a couple of days a week so I could have a few hours of uninterrupted work time and that has helped tremendously. And as a bonus, she totally loves it! I also make sure that I get out of the house and do lots of fun things every week :)


What three products or things help you stay organized?

Haha, honestly, I'm not in the position to give any advice regarding organization -- there's a reason there aren't any photos of my home office included here ;) That said, I definitely couldn't live without my iPhone. Having my email, calendar and Evernote (I’m a total list girl!) accessible to me at all times is super handy. (And if anyone has any suggestions, I’m all ears!)

To see more of Andrea's work:

Blog

Wedding Site

Portrait Site

**all images in this post copyright: Andrea of Pink Sugar Photography. **