Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Monica Willette, Founder of Phantom Photos LLC, located in Fort Ann, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a photographer. My customers are mainly families and couples looking to capture a special moment in time. I also photograph a lot of animals.
Tell us about yourself
I first got into photography in high school and have been interested in pursuing a career in photography since then. However, my passion for animals has always been my main focus. I am a licensed veterinary technician and also founded a 501c3 non-profit organization known as Bark, Brew & Tattoo. We had a great photographer for our first two events, but when he moved out of state, I took that as my sign from the universe to finally take my hand professionally with the camera. I have a lot of friends and family who are always wanting photos or willing to model for me if I need to expand my portfolio and practice a new editing style. Seeing the reactions from people when they get their gallery back really moves me and makes me so happy. That's the ultimate motivation, a client's happiness. Knowing they will always look back at their photos and remember how happy they were at that moment in time is a great feeling. Time is the biggest thief, so it's nice to be able to freeze it.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Getting someone who hates their photo taken to realize how utterly beautiful and amazing they are. That's the power of a good photo.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
People who expect things for free. I've had to revise my contract several times because of clients who disrespected my time and art. That and time management. I don't do this full time, but I do work a full-time job, help run a charity, and have a very busy family/home life. It's hard to accommodate everyone sometimes.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Have a target audience. Know who and what you want to shoot and stick to it. Don't be afraid to do a lot of free shoots to practice, but don't give away your art, either. Don't talk about it, be about it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phantomphotos518/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phantomphotos518/
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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