**all images in this post copyright: carrie / urban baby LA + milk LA **
 

{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...

IN 2 WEEKS:  Kelley

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

Carrie,  I first saw your work as a nomination from a blog reader and then, it seemed, within the next 10 days  I saw you in PPA magazine.  I knew I needed to check out your work and when I did I really loved the interaction it seems like you have with your subjects.  Your work is vibrant and fun. Thanks so much for being on Women and Business today.

What drew you to photography?

(or rather, what drew me to photographing children?)  I'm drawn to/and love documenting the raw and unique character of children.  I love documenting the relationship of siblings, and parents with their children. the ‘here and now’.

You have a different career path than most to photography.  Please tell us about it and how long you've been a professional photographer? 

I've been shooting professionally for (8) years. I left the film industry at my husbands urging (actually, it was a prerequisite to marriage!). I followed a dream, and have him to thank actually.

Are you in a retail space or home studio?  What made you decide to have the space you're in?

my workspace is at home which suits my needs so perfectly. with help on both sides (w/the kids + business), i'm able to manage both without feeling that i'm cheating either.  
 

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

after shooting, I view/select images to RAW process. I edit selects in PS, then upload slideshow to client to view. a phone mtg is scheduled prior for product order/post consult. I design my albums in-house (because i really love the design process). I have an assistant during my busy months to help manage packaging/shipping/designing/invoicing/uploading. I am considering outsourcing basic color correction to colorati this fall/winter ;).

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

I treat my clients like they have been lifelong friends - and some of them have become that! I make the kids feel like they are the coolest and most amazing kids on the planet - and most of them are. and, i have fun!

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

have a business plan, attend workshops, and build relationships with other photographers. bring technical knowledge and a creative vision to the table. all else will fall into place ;).

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

I love to cook with my husband (he's a better cook), I love spending time w/friends & all the kids together, I love taking my boys places & showing them new things, I love walking farmers market.

What are you most proud of as a business woman? 

I wake up every day loving what i spend my time doing.

You have 2 children.  Are they school age?  If so, do you homeschool or public school? 

finn is in kindergarten, and harrison is in preschool - both until about noon. I try to be as productive as possible while they’re in school. the balance is always a challenge.

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

I made a decision years ago to make my workspace off limits in the evening/night. My husband is in a creative field as well, working long hours, so the evening is our time and work waits ‘til morning ;).

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

I maintain a close relationship with my clients throughout the year. I remember their childrens birthdays, and basically treat them like gold.

What do you do to keep your family strong? 

I make them my top priority. ALWAYS.

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed? 

I know my limitations. however, i think feeling overwhelmed is pretty normal for most moms in a similar situation....have to just roll with it sometimes.

What three products or things help you stay organized?

freshbooks, THINGS (for mac), sketchbooks.

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

compare themselves to anybody else.

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

take risks, be authentic, be passionate.

To see more of Carrie's work:

Website

Blog

milk LA

** all images in this post copyright: carrie / urban baby LA + milk LA  **