Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christy Lonergan, Owner of Happy Chick Photography, located in Kansas City, MO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business name is Happy Chick Photography, and I specialize in maternity, newborn, children, families, and high school senior portraits.
Tell us about yourself
I was intrigued by photography as a young child, as my father was an amateur nature photographer. In the darkroom, it was my job to put the white paper in the liquid and watch the image appear like magic! It wasn't until my honeymoon to Africa that I purchased my own nice camera and big lens and decided to do photography on the side to help pay it all off. That reignited my love of photography, and I knew that if I could take photos for a living and leave the corporate world, I would be a "Happy Chick"! The rest is history.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is leaving a nice paying corporate job to do what I love doing and having so many awesome mentors and clients support me along the way.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest part of being a business owner is all the hats you have to wear! I not only need to know photography but also marketing and advertising. Being the best photographer means nothing if people can't find you. Plus, there is editing, accounting/books to keep up with that can be a lot to learn when it's just me as the photographer and only employee of the company.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your audience well, what they like, dislike, and what motivates them to purchase what you are offering.
- Be an expert not only in your field but also in reaching your target market. Know their habits, how they shop and where, and how you can connect with them.
- Be authentic! Love what you do, and it will show, and under promise and over deliver - always!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.happychickphoto.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HappyChickPhotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happychickphoto/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-lonergan/
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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