Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Adley Haywood, Owner of Adley Haywood Photography, located in Greensboro, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I operate a creative portrait, fashion, and branding photography business. I am based in  Greensboro, NC. I work with models, influencers, musicians, and business owners to elevate their online presence.
Tell us about yourself
My journey started in 2013 when I pivoted from reselling clothing and electronics on eBay to buying my first DSLR camera. The hassle of trying to resell someone else's products and the lowball offers from customers really pushed me out of the reselling business. With my new camera, I could create my own work. At first, it started as a hobby, but after going to a few local photography meetups, and falling in love with the process of creating and editing, the drive to take better photographs really set in.
My motivation to really stems from the challenge of literally creating what I see in my head and putting it out into the world. Also, my love of collaboration with other creative people inspires me to try new photography techniques, which essentially helps me elevate the work of my clients.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was being recognized and featured on Nikon's social media outlets. They reached out to me after tagging them on Instagram and wanted to re-share one of my videos that featured their new camera gear. As a big fan of the company and using their gear for the past 9 years, it was really a dream come true.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is finding the balance between work and personal time. With only 24 hours a day, being a single father, and being in a relationship, I find it hard to balance all the business needs and make sure I have time to spend with my son and girlfriend. While not impossible, I make it work, but I know I can use some improvement, especially when things get busy.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Look at other people in your niche, follow them on social media and let them inspire you daily.
- Find a product/service that you genuinely enjoy using and figure out a way to make it better.
- Find people in your local area and network with them to build good relationships because they will help you stay in business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.adleyhaywood.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adleyhaywoodphoto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_haywoodphoto/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/a_haywoodphoto
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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