Self-Taught Image Maker - Lians Jadan

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lians Jadan, photographer at Studio Lians, located in Detroit, MI, USA.

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

Hello, I'm Lians Jadan, a self-taught image maker with a unique approach to photography. My portfolio includes fashion and beauty photography, as well as advertising, lifestyle, motion, portraiture, and automotive. As a creative consultant, I have built strong relationships with talented innovators to bring any production to life. I approach every project with grace, dedication, and a smile, always striving to match my client's vision and needs. My work has been recognized globally, including winning the American Photography Awards and being selected for Lürzer's Archive's top 200 ad photographers worldwide.

My clients are diverse, including large corporations, advertising agencies, and creative agencies. They value creativity and excellence in visual communication. I have had the privilege of working with companies such as Alfa Romeo, Apple, Audi, Warner Brothers Music, and many others across various industries. My services include photography, creative direction, production, and consultation.

Tell us about yourself

I was initially motivated to start working on my business due to my passion for photography and my desire to showcase my unique approach to the art form. As a self-taught image maker, I wanted to make my mark in the industry and establish myself as a respected and sought-after photographer. This drive pushed me to hone my skills and develop my own style, which eventually led to my work being featured in prestigious publications such as VogueItalia.com, Prim, BG, and Graphis.

Nowadays, what motivates me each day to do what I do is the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and bring their visions to life. I take pride in building strong relationships with talented innovators in the industry, which allows me to collaborate and create exceptional work. Additionally, the recognition I have received from winning the American Photography Awards and being selected for Lürzer's Archive's top 200 ad photographers worldwide, as well as being shortlisted for the Communication Arts Photography Awards, serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft. Ultimately, I approach every project with grace, dedication, and a generous smile, always striving to exceed my client's expectations and make their vision a reality.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a highly skilled and creative self-taught image maker, my biggest accomplishment has been establishing myself as a respected and sought-after photographer in the industry. With my exceptional vision and unique approach to photography, my editorials have been featured in esteemed publications such as VogueItalia.com, Prim, BG, and Graphis. Additionally, my work has been recognized on a global scale, as I have been selected for Lürzer's Archive's top 200 ad photographers worldwide and shortlisted for the Communication Arts Photography Awards. Winning the American Photography Awards is also a significant achievement that I am proud of. Working with a diverse range of clients, including big names such as Apple, Warner Brothers Music, and Audi, has further solidified my position as a leading collaborator in the creative industry.

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

As a self-employed image maker, one of the hardest things for me is dealing with the unpredictable nature of the business. Unlike a traditional 9-5 job, freelancers don't have a steady stream of income, and I have to constantly hustle to find new clients and projects. Sometimes there are dry spells where I don't have any work, and it can be stressful wondering when the next project will come in. Additionally, I have to manage all aspects of my business, from marketing and networking to finances and invoicing, which can be overwhelming at times. But despite these challenges, I know that being self-employed allows me to pursue my passion and work on projects that truly inspire me, which makes it all worth it in the end.

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

1. Develop a unique and exceptional vision - In order to stand out in the competitive photography industry, it's essential to develop a unique and exceptional vision that sets you apart from others. You should aim to hone your skills and find a signature style that clients will recognize as yours.
2. Build strong relationships - Building strong relationships with other talented innovators in the industry is essential for bringing any production to life. Collaboration is key in the creative industry, and it's essential to surround yourself with other skilled professionals who can help you bring your vision to life.
3. Always strive to match your client's vision and needs - Clients are the lifeblood of any photography business, and it's crucial to always listen to their needs and match their vision. Approach every project with grace, dedication, and a generous smile, and always strive to exceed your client's expectations. Happy clients are more likely to recommend you to others, leading to more growth opportunities for your business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://liansjadan.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liansjadan/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lians/

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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