Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brandon Jones, Founder of Brandon L Jones Photography, Inc., located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
For more than 20 years, I’ve been doing commercial photography, shooting everything from food, drinks, and product to interior and exterior spaces and people. I’m currently in a studio space right in the middle of Columbus, and together with a team of expert stylists, we have the privilege of collaborating with clients such as Wendy’s, Tim Hortons, Bed Bath & Beyond, Value City Furniture, and more.
Tell us about yourself
Collaborating with others and the drive to make every picture better than my last is what motivates me. Ever since I can remember, I’ve done art. In high school, I would stay up to all hours of the night drawing because I wanted to be as good at it as I could be. At the Columbus College of Art and Design, I took photography and fell in love with all of it: the process, gadgets, and technology. I love the creative freedom you have with photography. From imagery made for medicine to fine art photography, you really can do anything. When I get free time to do my fine art, I get lost in it. Twenty years later, there’s still something magical that is happening.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Opening up my first studio in Grandview. It was a leap of faith, a lot of commitment, money, and so much unknown. But I never looked back. I just kept asking myself, What’s next?
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The pressure is all on you. All the time. Every interaction with a potential or existing client… are you putting yourself out there. You have to build up a thick skin for the creative business. And be prepared to wear multiple hats.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Real-world experience still goes much further than just school. Remember that after graduation, there is still so much to learn. Reach out to older peers who you admire and see if you can shadow or assist them. Be persistent, not annoying, but persistent.
- Keep working on your craft to better yourself.
- Creativity needs to be fed. Stay inspired by taking in all sorts of different art and media. Don’t forget to tap into your creative network, too. Feed yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.brandonljones.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photobjones/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brandon-l-jones-photography-inc
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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