Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Avalon Mohns, Owner of Avalon Mohns Photography, located in Orangeville, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Avalon Mohns Photography specializes in Brand Photography for small business owners that want to bring in more business. We work backward from your target customers or clients, so you receive photos that attract the right people. Each shoot is conceptualized from scratch, so your photos look tailored and truly stand out from others in your industry. We also offer more opportunities to connect with your dream customer through our video and graphic design services.
Tell us about yourself
I've always loved photography, but it wasn't until I became an entrepreneur myself in 2019 that I found my true calling. As I connected with more and more small business owners, I noticed that the photos they were using lacked vision. Their images contained a style you've seen a million times before, and they didn't highlight what makes their business unique.
I am obsessed with delivering photos and videos that actually move the needle in your business, and I have developed a process to do so. My clients get more leads and more engagement from their brands - which means more money in their pockets - and that makes me very happy. Working with small business owners is what keeps me motivated because they are the most inspirational people you will ever meet!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was being able to go full-time in my business in January 2023. I worked a part-time job for four years while trying to build my business. Social media creates this facade that overnight success is common, but it takes a ton of patience and dedication.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Keeping your blinders on and not looking at what everyone else is doing. This was a major mistake of mine in the beginning - trying to mimic what successful photographers on Instagram were doing. I follow very few photographers now and, instead, allow myself to be inspired by other things like graphic design and visual art. If I am conceptualizing ideas from other mediums, it's much more likely to be authentic and original.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Stay on the path, and you will succeed. It doesn't matter how many times you fail; if you commit to getting back up and trying again, you will get there because, eventually, you will find something that works.
- If you can, work with a mentor or business coach. Hire someone for an hour if that's all you can afford. They will help you look at the bigger picture and get out of your own head.
- Do your market research and find out what truly makes you different. Talk about this constantly: in all your marketing materials, on social media, networking events, etc. If you offer the same thing as everyone else, no one will have any reason to choose you over the competitor other than price.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://avalonmohns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avalonmohns
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avalonmohns/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avalonmohnsphotography/
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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