Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paul Nelson, Founder of Paul Nelson Photography Inc., located in Minneapolis, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is comprised of two businesses, one doing contract ad photography for customers such as Target, Schwan's Foods, and many others. The second is a fine art business photographing and selling prints of birds through Room and Board Stores and our site wildbirdsflying.com.
Tell us about yourself
I'm Paul Nelson. Since 1999, I have been a highly regarded Minneapolis-based commercial photographer specializing in conceptual studio work. I've developed problem-solving skills, innovative lighting, and sound post-production methods that add up to a clean vivid style with arresting visual impact. Past projects include campaigns for Target Corporation, BestBuy, FedEx, Marvin Windows, Pfizer, Sprint, and more. In 2010, I began a project of my own design, photographing songbirds as they take flight against a solid white background. It is an undertaking that has called into play many of the troubleshooting skills I've learned throughout my advertising career. I'm excited daily to expand my fine artwork to include any subject matter that's nature-inspired.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'd say my biggest accomplishment is being able to sustain a career for over 20+ years. It has changed dramatically since I began my career shooting film in 1999. I've had to make many challenging decisions along the way, and I am still working and still excited about photography.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The most difficult things about being a business owner are the uncertainty that comes with it. Forecasting income and expense, knowing one's schedule from week to week, and generally having a sense of security.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would offer suggestions like: First, consider whether or not your personality is compatible with uncertainty and irregularity. Then I'd say start small, not take on unnecessary overhead and be regular and consistent with your marketing and promotions. Keeping your networking game too, is also crucial. There are so many photographers out there now, and finding a way to cut through all the noise is critical.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://paulnelsonphoto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulnelson_photo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulnelson70/
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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