Tell Your Story - Leanne Doell Photography

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leanne Doell, Owner of Leanne Doell Photography, located in Carman, MB, CA.

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

I am a family, maternity, and newborn photographer. I host sessions in my studio but love moving outdoors to enjoy all things prairie during the warmer summer months. My Clientele has always been incredibly organic, and I receive most new clients from word-of-mouth referrals. Most families are growing or celebrating big or small life moments. I would consider my style to include simple and classic portraits mixed with laid-back lifestyle images that capture family connections and children's natural personalities.

Tell us about yourself

Photography has been my creative outlet of choice for over a decade. Starting like many first-time mothers when my oldest was born. I couldn't get over his amazing little hands, feet, first smile, first tooth… the crazy messes he could make, his steely blue eyes, and amazingly cautious and thoughtful gaze. I also couldn't believe how fleeting and fast each moment was. It became important to me early on to document the everyday life moments that made my life so beautiful, messy, and wonderful all at the same time. I realized that this creative outlet could be more… and more it has become! Every day is an exercise in seeing the beautiful… in the shadows and the light. Four kids later and many albums full of memories and photographs… I often find my kids on the living room couch, pouring over these books. What I want them to see is that life is beautiful (even if it's messy)… they are loved… and important… and that the little moments although at the time seem small, become cherished memories and are worth documenting.

As I grow personally and professionally, my business has become more than just a creative outlet and means to pay bills but also a way of showing my children what hard work looks like even when it becomes less than ideal or more difficult. It's important for me, especially in the last few years, during a difficult time for most small business owners, to show my family that sometimes you have to pivot, learn a new skill, and you are never done learning... ever.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Honestly, being able to stand behind what I do as a viable source of income. Making some financial goals for my income last year and meeting them blew my mind. I couldn't believe what I was building in my business was a sustainable and reliable way to make money and financially support my family.

Also, a repeat client is literally one of the biggest accomplishments, in my opinion. I value my clients so much, and I know how hard they work to make money and find the time to hire me to capture memories for them. I appreciate their trust in me.

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

I would have to say the business side of running a business is hard, lol. Seriously though... taxes and accounting have been my biggest stresses.
I have had my struggles with moving from just having a side hobby that makes some money to standing on my own two feet and owning the fact that I run a business. Giving myself working hours and boundaries because running your own business can literally be all-consuming. Mostly because I DO genuinely love what I do. Being mindful to balance it all the best that I can.

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

1. Check out local business owners in the field you are interested in and see if they would be willing to chat or share some info with you regarding the business you want to begin. For example, in photography... find a mentor and work with them even if it's free. Just to gain an idea of what goes into the feet on the groundwork.
2. Practice. Practice. Practice. Always keep working on your skill. The best way to learn is through your mistakes and triumphs. Take the time to mindfully reflect on what has been working for you and what was not worth the effort.
3. Set solid work hours for yourself. It is so easy to get lost in your work. Especially if you love it and you're passionate about what you do. Eventually, burnout and exhaustion can catch up on you. Making work less and less enjoyable. Something as simple as putting your phone down for certain times of the day to be present at the moment. Or not answering emails or messages if you're not in work hours. Truthfully I'm not the best at this... yet... still a work in progress over here.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.leannedoellphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leannedoellphotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leanne_doell_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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