Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sadie Schnitzler, Co-Owner of DIWAS Photography, located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We have a lifestyle and storytelling photography business located in Seattle, WA. We photograph people's stories centered around love and life, so weddings, families of all constellations, events, businesses, and brands. This past year we launched a new tenant: Travel with a Local in Nepal, a 9-12 day supported tour focused on Food, Culture, and Photography. Our ideal clients are folks who want imagery that reflects who they are and the beauty within their lives, with lots of ease, communication, and knowing that we're a small, BIPOC-owned, socially conscious business.
Tell us about yourself
Diwas and I started this business just over ten years ago. Diwas is the artist and visionary serving as our principal photographer. I, Sadie, am the person that connects with folks to build community, understand their story, and facilitate the process. Being able to be self-employed, providing visual assets that affirm and celebrate our clientele, and giving back to communities/projects/programs through our efforts keep us going. Additionally, we have small kids and a spirit for adventure, and being self-employed keeps us in a space where we get to be the directors of life and say YES to the things that matter to us.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Gosh, launching our first Travel with a Local in Nepal tour last year was a MAJOR accomplishment, but so was dancing through the pandemic and being able to both build and support our community in doing so.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Breaking down the big visions into bite-sized pieces while knowing I choose to wear 23 hats.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Fear not - believe in yourself and do the thing!
- Tap into all the resources. Building community, networking, and mentorship will build your confidence and inspire you.
- Failure isn't really a thing - everything that happens is simply feedback. So take it in, brush yourself off, celebrate, reflect, and keep going.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.diwasphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diwasphotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diwasphotography/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadie-schnitzler-diwas-photography/
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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