Timeless, Authentic, Passionate

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Genevieve Devries, owner of Genevieve DeVries Photography, located in Detroit, MI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a photographer in the Michigan area. I photograph weddings, newborns, seniors, families, corporate events, and products. All the photography experts tell me that I need to pick one or maybe two niches to be successful in this industry. I enjoy all of it, and it keeps me from getting bored, so I say rules are made to be broken.

My clients are the kind of people who value quality photography, people who want to remember special moments in an artistic way, and who expect professional service.

Tell us about yourself

I'm a mom, a wife & a friend. I love to travel, I love spontaneous adventures, and I live for the thrills that life has to offer, both big and small. I didn't start out thinking that I would give up my career. It was just a "side hustle" at first. I maintained a demanding corporate job while growing my photography business until one day, the decision to go full-time was very, very clear. I started to get good at photography, got some awards and took a critical look at the photography industry, and set yearly goals that exceeded my expectations every time.

When the pandemic hit, I very clearly found myself at that fork in the road. I HAD to give something up. The industry I was in was toxic, my sons needed more of me than I had time for, and there was no way I was giving up photography when it brought me so much joy. Not when I saw that I could be successful in it. My company was laying people off, and I raised my hand, I made the leap, and that year my business BLEW UP. It all just fell into place. Being able to manage my own life, work hard, and give my all to something that is mine is definitely something that motivates me. I love being able to have a vision for something and then directly make it happen.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The awards come without me knowing or trying. It's one thing to ask people to support you via social media feeds. It's totally different when industry leaders give you professional awards without you even knowing. That means a lot.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Turning a passion into an actual business is a lot of work. There is SO much work spent on building a business, and taking great photographs is not just about clicking a button.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Work hard, be smart, and get good at what you do.
Stay true to yourself.
Price yourself correctly, and don't undervalue yourself.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://genevievedevries.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gdevriesphoto/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevieve_devries_photography/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genevieve-devries-917a9bba/

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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