Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michael Verity, Founder of Michael Verity Photography, located in Portland, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a photographer based in Portland, OR, specializing in headshots, modeling portfolios, and fashion editorial photography. My primary customers are actors and models. I also work with business and creative professionals across a variety of industries.
Tell us about yourself
I started as a street photographer. One of my images was chosen for an open exhibition at a local museum. One of the jurors was the owner of the local newspaper, and she asked me to work for her. I spent a number of years as a freelance photojournalist, shooting everything from news to sports to music. I started doing acting headshots and modeling portfolios about 15 years ago because my kids got into the business. Then it becomes MY business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Photography is my full-time profession. I get to do a creative job, make a good living and help people further their careers and achieve their dreams. That's pretty cool.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Remember that this is a business, not just a passion, and all the things that go with running a business -- sales, marketing, accounting, etc. -- have to be as important as making the next great image.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Put business systems in place to manage your clients and keep track of your accounting. It may seem superfluous when you're not getting paid but assume that someday you will and treat photography like a business from the start.
- Even if you don't think you're ready, take the job, cash the check, and deliver the work. Then do it again. You'll make mistakes, and you'll get better, and one day you'll wake up and realize you're a professional photographer.
- Stay focused on making great pictures, building a smart business, and working with the people who love your stuff.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://michaelverityphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelVerityPhoto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael.verity.photography/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-verity-6794354/
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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