Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Audey Shen, Founder of Ashen Photography, located in Palo Alto, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a wedding and engagement photographer serving the Bay Area + San Francisco area in Northern California! I serve couples that just got engaged and are looking for a photojournalist to tell their story through genuine, joyful, and timeless photos.
Tell us about yourself
During high school, I took a 2-week photography program with National Geographic Student Expeditions, and this was when I realized that I am most at ease when I'm with my camera, surrounded by the beauty the world has to offer. Back in school, I learned by shooting with film and as a photojournalist while shooting for the school's newspaper, and I have never stopped since!
What motivates me every day is the connections I make with people. I love the human element. I love getting to know someone's story and then being able to capture it. To have someone invite you into their most personal and intimate moments during the wedding day and then being able to capture those moments is what makes for the photographs that I'm most proud of.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is when I deliver the photos and get to see my clients' reactions. I love providing a service that can capture memories for a lifetime. To be able to do what I love and then for it to be appreciated by having your work displayed in your client's homes, it's just the best feeling.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The biggest challenge I've faced is dealing with the actual "business" side of things. This includes bookkeeping, marketing, blogging, content creation, and networking, on top of the creative aspects of photography! I knew that there would always be a lot of work starting and maintaining Ashen Photography, but I've been so grateful to everyone who has believed in me and supported me in the process.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Prioritize client experience and build trust with your clients. Always serve your clients to the best of your ability, even if it costs you extra time or money. Good clients will recommend you to other good clients, and this positive word of mouth is paramount for a growing business.
- Perseverance is everything. In any business, there will always be things that don't go your way. Don't dwell on your mistakes. Instead, learn from them and figure out what you can do better next time. If you've never failed, then that means you've never pushed yourself to grow and achieve what you want.
- Do what you're passionate about, and always be true to yourself. There will be days when everything will feel too overwhelming to handle. Be patient, and always remember the reason why you started the business in the first place.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ashenphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audeyshenphotography/
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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