Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Molly Wantland, Founder of Simply M Photography, located in Columbia, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi! I'm Molly with Simply M Photography, a happy little business in Columbia, TN.
I mainly photograph families, young children, and babies… and I love every minute of it! There is so much joy and chaos when chasing around small children for a good photo, and it's always exciting to me to hope I'll capture someone's true personality in a snapshot.
Tell us about yourself
I've always loved photography. I was the kid at birthday parties clutching my Kodak disposable camera, hoping to snap some fun memories. I remember noticing how the afternoon light filtered through the trees in my front yard and photographing an entire Thanksgiving Day at our home, complete with my mom putting casseroles in the oven and my brother sprawled out on the couch in his "turkey coma." Even at a young age, I wanted to remember the small things about life.
I was halfway through grad school for a Dietetic degree when I realized what I wanted to do was photography. I wasn't ready to photograph people (I didn't think I'd ever find the courage for that), so I shot architecture/nature and sold those as notecards to friends, family, and a few local shops. People asked if I'd do their family's photos, and I pushed through (with shaky knees). Soon enough, I fell in love with capturing families just as they were.
Through much trial and error (and laughter!), it became excitingly clear that I was meant to bring others joy by documenting their relationships. I want to create lovely and purely life-affirming photos – images of you with your favorite people! You laugh with your best friend… the way your kids hug your leg oh-so tightly… the beautiful, small moments you don't want to forget.
I've been in business for 12(!) years, and I am very grateful to have my dream job!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Not letting myself get too stuck on the current trend, but following the style that feels right to me.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Wanting to please my amazing clients yet also fill my cup creatively. I love finding those clients who "get" me and want photos that show who they are - not just a nice picture for a Christmas card ;-) I love holiday cards, but in my mind, the images that will be passed down and cherished by future generations are full of personality.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find people in the business and treat them to coffee. Pick their brains, and don't be afraid to ask questions!
- Research and practice.
- Don't feel like you must do what everyone else does. Creatives who go against the grain tend to be the most successful, both inward and outward!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://simplymphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplymphotography/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplymphotography/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/simplymphoto
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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