Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joan Rekemeier, Owner of Joan Marie Photography, located in Scotch Plains, NJ, USA.

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

I run a boutique portrait studio. My customers are families, couples, and even pets!

Tell us about yourself

I am an artist, first and foremost. I have loved the arts for as long as I can remember. I always had a camera with me growing up. I have always wanted to capture moments in time and document experiences. But when I had my first son, I got my first DSLR camera and fell deeply in love with photography. I love all genres of photography but what I love most is the joy I can bring to others with my skills. Not only families but also bringing self-confidence to that person by getting a headshot for their next job, healing the family that just lost their dad, a fun experience for the family that has been busy with life, and feeling that connection again.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The biggest accomplishment for me as a business owner was last May when I took the leap to open a Studio space in my town. I had lost my corporate job of 5 years right before COVID hit. As a single mom with two kids doing school virtually, that next year was SCARY and HARD. But I have a son with special needs. I knew I needed a job with a flexible schedule. I knew I needed to work close to home. A space opened up down the street from my son's school. I knew I had to do it. That was in May of 2021 :)

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

As a business owner, the hardest thing for me is the business side of things! Haha! I mean, I'm an artist and just want to have fun and be creative and make art. It's hard for my brain to make that shift over to the administrative stuff. But I recently signed up for business management software that is making it fun for me! I like the way I can get creative with email automation and the Client experience. I'm learning that if I approach the business side of it in a fun and playful way, it can actually be enjoyable!

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

  1. Fear is a liar.
  2. You MUST have a passion for the business you are opening, running, and growing.
  3. Always be learning and growing.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I want people to know that I don't always know what I'm doing. But I do know that my love for photography is bigger than that, unknowing. If you have a passion and a gift, share it with the world. Take things day by day, and always stay positive. Things will always work out. And if you are scared... that's where the magic happens. Walk into the fear.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.joanmariephotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joanmariephotography/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joan-rekemeier-282b2912/

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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