Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Roelen Fernandez, owner of Roelen Photography, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own Roelen Photography, a lifestyle photography business based in Vancouver, BC. I offer a variety of photography services, such as family portraits, individual portraits, engagement and wedding photography, and event coverage. My customers are usually individuals, couples, or families wanting me to capture one of their life's greatest moments. I've taken photos of clients both from the U.S. and Canada.
Tell us about yourself
I started taking photos during my university days while I was studying to be a special education teacher. I used to just take photos of friends, but then I started doing it as a business after I moved to the United States. I've always been fascinated by poetry in things because I grew up loving writing, so seeing poetry in a more tangible way, photos, made me happier. Seeing photo outputs after a shoot is what motivates me to do it.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is having clients trust me and come back to me and say they love the photos I have taken. Also, having the motivation to just start my website and extend my reach became my biggest accomplishment in this area of my career.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is self-doubt. I've always asked myself after every shoot if I've done enough, if my photos are good or if the clients love my photos. It's always daunting to send the final digital proofs. Plus, I am managing this business while working full-time as a teacher with limited photography equipment since I had to give up my equipment during my move from the U.S. to Canada.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
For top tips, I'd say the following:
- Just start it. Start your website and become visible to the world. I've always put it off for a long time. My regret was I did not start it sooner.
- Know your audience and your niche. You should have a target and stick with that target audience.
- Be the best at your craft. Word of mouth is always the best advertisement. Great outputs and products will have people talking. Great products are good for marketing. Great products boost your brand. P.S. Know the marketing side of your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://roelenphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roelenphotos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roelenphotos/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roelenfernandez/
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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