Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography and videography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ryan Dawson, Owner of Dawson Media, located in Surrey, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a real estate and architectural photographer and videographer. I provide marketing solutions for developers, realtors, and homeowners. Whether it's a new development aiming to reach more buyers or realtors adding a personal touch, I'm here to make them stand above the rest.
Tell us about yourself
It all started as a hobby in school, filming skateboarding and biking. That's where I thought it would end, haha. I went to the University of Victoria to study engineering. After completing my first year, I dropped engineering and switched to their visual arts program. Definitely more in line with what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. After graduating, I moved to Vancouver, BC, to pursue a career as a photographer.
Initially, I jumped around several different fields, from weddings, headshots, grad photos to product photography. I was sort of a jack of all trades in the photography world. Yes, I was working as a photographer, but I wasn't passionate about these areas. It was just enough to make ends meet. And then, I found what I was looking for. After working professionally as a photographer for a number of years, I finally landed on my niche, real estate, and architectural photography and videography. This is what gets me excited and motivates me each day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment as a business owner has been creating and growing a photography business in BC through word of mouth. It's quite a relief getting to a point where work finds me instead of applying for gigs daily.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Definitely time management. Sometimes it seems as if the work never stops, and you have to keep going on and on. But learning how to balance work with precious time for family and friends is key for a lasting business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find something you are passionate about. If you love it, it won't seem like work.
- Decide from the start whether it's a team you're building or a one-man show. Once you have a reputation and a loyal client list, it's harder to add new team members to the business if you are the direct selling point.
- Slow and steady wins the race, especially as a photographer. It takes real dedication to grow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.dawsonmedia.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.dawsonmedia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dawsonmedia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Dawsonmedia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-dawson/
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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