Capturing Your Idea of Beauty

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicolette Jackson-Pownall, Owner of NJP Photography, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

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

I'm a personal branding and modern beauty portrait photographer. As a branding photographer, I serve public-facing individuals who need attractive, authentic images of themselves to help grow their businesses and connect to their target audience. This roster of clients includes real estate agents, C-Suite executives, creative entrepreneurs, coaches, health experts, public speakers, and consultants of all stripes.

As a modern beauty photographer, I serve women who want to reconnect with themselves and capture meaningful moments in their lives. They want to see themselves in a new light and to feel empowered for who they are. Each session is custom designed to showcase the natural beauty and unique qualities of each woman. The clients get to experiment with different looks and styles and enjoy a fun and uplifting experience that is just for them. The final products serve as reminders of their beauty and boost their self-esteem and confidence way beyond their photoshoot itself.

Tell us about yourself

I started my business after I was let go from a tiny marketing firm. We were not a good fit, so it was a blessing because I was approaching 40 and thought to myself, well, if I'm going to be this stressed out and work this hard, it should really be for the realization of my own dreams, not someone else's. Even though I'd always wanted to be a professional photographer, I was concerned that turning a hobby into a business was a risky maneuver. So many photographers fail within their first couple of years because they don't approach it like a business. One that requires operational, sales, and marketing skills beyond being able to take beautiful photographs. So I was ready to focus on the business side while developing my creative skills. I had plenty of experience in sales and customer service, but to make a living at this, I sought out various mentors who could help me establish the structure of a sustainable, paying practice.

It's been 6 years, and I don't regret a second of it. I love what I do, and even more than that, I love the clients that I get to serve. They are remarkable people who show up for themselves and their version of success every day. They inspire me, and I hope that shows in the results of our photoshoots. I'm proud and honored to get to know them and to capture a moment in their lives that helps propel them to new heights both personally and professionally.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I recently completed a series of portraits called Rock Your Age, A Celebration of the Beauty, Power, and Sensuality of Women Over 40. I started this series during the pandemic and completed it in Fall of 2022. It showcases women of all ages and backgrounds who all had their own Why for wanting to participate. Some of these women were reinventing themselves professionally; some wanted to honor loved ones who passed during COVID, and many of them wanted to celebrate their journey and mark a moment in time that has become a legacy for their children. But each of these women understands how precious life is and that it is never too early - or too late - to honor and celebrate yourself. Though not under the purview of a "business accomplishment," per se, I continue to market this series and the wonderful results, both visual and psycho-emotional, that these sessions provided. As one woman so aptly quotes in the book, "This photoshoot reminded me that I'm beautiful, and not just because I took some great photos."

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

Learning to transition from micro-management to outsourcing tasks that we aren't good at or don't necessarily enjoy. It's been very difficult for me to allow myself to invest in others and trust that they are experts in their domain. I've held tight reins for a long time, but I'm beginning to release my grip on my business so it can continue to grow.

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

I can't speak for other entrepreneurs, but as a photographer, I do believe that 80% of one's focus has to be on building and running the business rather than shooting. If you're creating beautiful photographs, but you're not investing in building a referral network, marketing, and then selling your products and services for profit, then you're going to burn out.

I will also say that no matter where one's at in the various stages of owning a business, customer service is everything. The number one most important aspect of what I do is how I treat my clients, from that first hello to the final delivery of their photos. I'm in the business of providing an unparalleled customer service experience.

Finally, I think it's important to always remember the Why behind it all. Why are we in business for ourselves? Are we seeking more time, more money, more independence, more creativity, and more control? Whatever the Why, that's the reason we keep going on those difficult, self-doubting days.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.njpphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PortraitsByNicolette
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portraitsbynicolette/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolettejpphotography/

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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