The Refined Approach for Bespoke Experiences-Shotlife Studio
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lusine Hakobyan, co-founder of Shotlife Studio, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is the mirror of my life! Everything I feel, experience, and admire ends up reflected in my business. That's the joy of being in a creative field! My business is called Shotlife Studio, providing luxury wedding photography and cinematography in Toronto. I started this adventure together with my brother and my husband in 2014, and we have since made memories and thrived together more than we could ever imagine. Our customers are engaged couples that connect with us on a personal level. They see us as more than just a business. We had the pleasure to work on over 200 exceptional weddings, creatively directed and photographed for numerous luxury magazines (including pinch-me-worthy magazine covers), and continue to work with beautiful couples who inspire us.
Tell us about yourself
I am a whole lot of dreamer with just a bit of a realist. I like to see the bright side of everything and know that with hard work, dedication, and a well-developed strategy, life and work can blend into a wonderland. To find your dream career, you really need to first understand yourself. Your personality, likes and dislikes, and most importantly, your priorities in life. I always knew that creativity could fill my heart from a very young age, having dived deep into artistic fields like painting, dancing, and theatre. But real life is not la-la-land. I pursued a more "practical" career in Accounting, working hard to get my Bachelor of Commerce, followed by a CPA designation and securing a stable career in the corporate world. As soon as I accumulated enough know-how and confidence through my studies and corporate work, it felt natural to move on and realize my potential in the world of arts. Why weddings? Why photography? Because I LOVE them both! I never forced this business to come to life – it just happened organically. My brother (who is also a CPA) and I put our heads together and worked out a sustainable business model that would meet our financial goals while bringing us creative fulfillment, and we continuously strive for improvements to our business every year.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
One of my biggest accomplishments as a business owner is the fact that I feel at ease with my business. I see the purpose behind my work, and it's not the money - it's so much more than that. On top of this, I am also getting ever closer to the work-life balance that I have always yearned for and couldn't attain through the corporate world. I am in control of myself.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Your business is your baby! It's a blessing and a curse! You can delve too deep into your business mentally and emotionally and eventually find yourself trapped. I have seen this happen with several colleagues. The spark they once had building their business suddenly dies away because they are overworked or pushed themselves too hard. It's so important to maintain the right boundaries and continuously reflect on what you're doing right and what needs to change.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First of all, think objectively about why you want to start your own business. This will give you the clarity you need to prioritise and set the right goals. The second and very crucial step is financial planning. You don't want to end up in bankruptcy. Everything costs money (sometimes an arm and leg), and you need to make sure you have enough capital to start and grow your business. For me, that meant working two full-time jobs for several years. Better safe than sorry when it comes to money - that's my take on it! Third, have fun! I find that the best (and happiest) business owners are the ones that are genuinely passionate about the service or product that their company offers.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://shotlifestudio.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shotlifestudio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shotlifestudio/
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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