*All images in the post copyright Sandy Puc*

NEXT WEEK: Sandy Puc

{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!

Sandy,  you've been in business for many years and now you've toured the country at least 3 times helping other photographers create successful business in that time.  You are also a mom to 4 kids and have a wonderful husband.  You seem to have mastered managing life and business.  Thanks so much for being here!

What is a day with your family like?

We travel a lot together as a family. Some of my most memorable bonding experiences with my family have been on the road.  When we’re not traveling, my kids enjoy being homebodies.  

How do you separate business and family life?

I have a hard time with that.  I struggle with Mother’s Guilt just like every other working mom out there. I always strive to find balance.  

How many kids do you have? How do you help them to not feel bugged at your business?

I am the mother of four wonderful children and have had 40 foster children. My studio has always been very family-friendly.  My kids have grown up in the studio and are received more like siblings and friends to studio employees.  

How did you create such a strong marketing/branding presence?

By listening hard to my clients’ needs. I also have an innate passion for marketing.  

What are the three most important things you do as a businesswoman?

1.  Always thank my clients.
2.  Share mistakes with my entire staff so we can all learn.
3.  Streamline the workflow system at the studio to ensure employees are always on the same page. 

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

My top three tips: 1. Relax, 2. Never let them see you sweat, and 3. Project confidence.  

How many people work for you? And how did you get to that point?

I’ve grown my current staff of 34 employees literally one at a time.  

What is the most important thing you do as a mother?

I maintain an open relationship with my children.  My logic is that I’d rather have my kids ask for my input on tough topics rather than asking someone else. My children are all very independent souls. I’ve taught them to take ownership of their decisions and choices.

What are you most proud of creatively?

Pride, to me, sounds like a destination. I like to think of myself more as constantly evolving and improving.

You recently did a Tots 2 Teens tour and you have another coming up in January.  How did you work that hectic schedule with your family?

I’m actually on my 2010 Family Tour right now! Travel has always been a part of my business. My family takes turns spending time with me on the bus when I’m on tour.

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

Martial arts. My goal is to fight in the 2010 World Champions.

 What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed?

Honestly, I’m most happy when things are chaotic.

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

DON’T buy new equipment and software. Just shoot from your heart!

What five suggestions do you have for women who are trying to lead a more balanced life?

1.  Family always comes first!
2.  Exercise
3.  Commit to yourself
4.  Make it happen
5. Take time for yourself

If you live on the east coast, Sandy's Family Tour is coming to a city near you within the next 14 days!  You know you want to go....

To see more of Sandy's work:

Website

Blog

*All images in the post copyright Sandy Puc*